What Do Employers Look for When Hiring an Attorney?
Attorneys may work specifically for a law firm, or work in a larger business that hires lawyers and has many other types of employees performing different types of assignments. Many of the job qualifications overlap, as the attorney will still be providing legal advice. A law firm is also searching for potential partners who will eventually take on management and ownership of the firm.
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Qualifications
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Employers want a law school graduate who has passed the state bar exam and is allowed to practice law. Some employers may check the law school's reputation and the applicant's performance. If the attorney is experienced, the employer will look for a solid track record of success.
Clients
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A law firm wants an attorney that can bring in new clients. Some law firms may seek one who already has a prior relationship with clients. The attorney may also need to have enough money to buy partial ownership rights in the firm for higher-level jobs. According to Lateral Attorney Report, the book of clients an attorney brings to a new firm is known as portable business. An employer may specify that job applicants bring in a certain dollar amount of portable business.
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Additional Skills
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Some employers request experience in specific fields like real estate, environmental remediation, bankruptcy or medical malpractice. In some fields like patent law, this can even include additional degrees. Employers can also seek experience gained at a specific company size or law firm.
Tasks
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Employers will often seek specific experience. Prosecutors want to hire attorneys who have successfully convicted criminals or proved civil liability. A defense firm seeks attorneys who demonstrate they can defend clients. Some employers want a good trial attorney; others seek attorneys primarily for legal research or to prepare briefs.
Job Stress
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Employers want attorneys familiar with the nature of the work. Many positions involve significant travel, so an applicant should show an ability to function effectively on the road. Law firms often require staff to work long hours, which can increase greatly when facing a case deadline. An applicant should prove the ability to perform under pressure of all kinds.
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References
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