Explore This Path

Lawyer

💰 Earn $131K-$239K

📚 Doctoral or Professional Degree

⏱️ 48 Month Training

📈 4.1% Job Growth

Advocate for justice and protect clients' rights in diverse legal matters.
Shape society by influencing legal outcomes and ensuring fair trials.
Engage in dynamic courtroom battles and strategic legal negotiations.

What Lawyers DoRepresent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.

Analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents.
Advise clients concerning business transactions, claim liability, advisability of prosecuting or defending lawsuits, or legal rights and obligations.
Select jurors, argue motions, meet with judges, and question witnesses during the course of a trial.
Interpret laws, rulings and regulations for individuals and businesses.
Present evidence to defend clients or prosecute defendants in criminal or civil litigation.

Lawyers Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationDoctoral or Professional Degree

Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training TimeOver 4 years

Job Openings31,500 Annually

Median Earnings

$197,790 in California

$151,160 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@.smvii

@itsmichelleijeoma

@nickatnoon1

@vlogging.with.j

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Influencing or leading others
Thinking and problem solving

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Receiving recognition

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing

Go Deeper: Lawyers Explained

LawyerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

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What Is the Law & Public Safety Industry?