Do you still recommend becoming a lawyer? Ask the lawyer

Q: I recall your encouraging others to take up a legal career. But lawyers are hardly thought of with much respect. Some are blamed for hurting police departments, others for attacking someone because they don’t like his politics. You still giving the thumbs up on a legal career?

R.M., Marina Del Rey

A: The way you phrase your question gives me some pause. Indeed, my understanding is that in China, the symbol for lawyers is two dogs barking at each other. There is, however, another side to the coin. There are many positives to attending law school and becoming a lawyer. Ultimately, it is a “weigh the pros and cons” analysis, which turns in part on an individual’s goals.

I do not regret practicing law. In fact, I will continue to do so.  For me, personally, it is a thumbs up.  I can’t guarantee others are going to find it suitable, enjoyable, rewarding or productive. What I can say is there are many options with your law degree, which is one reason why becoming a lawyer can be positive. For example, you have a variety of choices as to what kind of law to practice: Civil, criminal, tax, real estate, commercial, workers’ compensation, among others. Further, a civil lawyer can pursue personal injury, family law, immigration or handle business transactions, among other options.

A lawyer can also teach, write and, in time, seek to become a judge.  A lawyer can go to court, or counsel from the office or both. Jobs are available in the private and public sectors, and you can choose to prosecute, or be on the defense side. There is also a benefit to knowing the law, whether you become an active attorney or not.

Research indicates there are more than 340,000 lawyers in the U.S., and woman are a little more than 50% of that number. Annual income (according to research) is in excess of $100,000. The job outlook is that employment is expected to grow as much as 8% from 2022 to 2031, faster than the average for most occupations. Some 39,000 openings for lawyers are projected each year over that time.

To be clear:  I am not trying to persuade anyone to go the “law route.” It is a personal decision. In my view, there are a number of reasons why it can be a good choice. Is it the most fun I have ever had?  OK, that would be a bit of an exaggeration.

Q: Is there a point in time when a lawyer can coast? What I mean is, can the lawyer simply designate others to do the work and make an appearance only necessary, but lend his or her name to the business? Isn’t that what these large volume lawyers do?

A.C., Long Beach

A: I know some attorneys who are “figure heads.”  They lend their name and presence to a firm, but most of the work (particularly the grinding work) is done by others. I do not know how a lawyer “can coast,” however, because the profession is too demanding. There are significant ethical rules to keep track of and not violate. The law changes; keeping on top of things is crucial. There are many deadlines. There are niceties with all kinds of contracts, and many details to process if you have a court case. Clearly, some attorneys do quite well at having others on board, including some who manage the staff and files. But it is difficult for me to wrap my hands around the word “coast.” I think a lawyer can become increasingly confident in his or her skills, and can find solid help, but my experience is you definitely have to keep on your toes to be any good at lawyering.

Ron Sokol has been a practicing attorney for over 40 years, and has also served many times as a judge pro tem, mediator, and arbitrator. It is important to keep in mind that this column presents a summary of the law, and is not to be treated or considered legal advice, let alone a substitute for actual consultation with a qualified professional.

Source: Orange County Register