What Does It Take to Become a Criminal Lawyer?
Criminal lawyers work for the government or private firms to represent persons accused of committing crimes. Compared to other areas of practice, criminal lawyers spend a significant amount of time in the courtroom. They are also often required to work collaboratively with other lawyers, so teamwork skills are essential.
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Bachelor's Degree
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Before you may apply to law school, you will need to complete a 4-year degree. Prospective criminal lawyers often major in justice, criminology, sociology or psychology.
Law School
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You will need to complete a 3-year Juris Doctorate degree before you may practice as a criminal lawyer.
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Trial Skills
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Criminal lawyers need strong public speaking and trial advocacy skills, so participating in extracurricular activities such as mock trial and moot court may help build your skills.
Clerkships
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Many prospective criminal lawyers complete clerkships with private defense firms, prosecutors' offices or the public defender after their first year of law school.
Bar Exam
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Before you may work as a criminal lawyer, you must pass your state's bar examination, which tests your knowledge of law and professional ethics.
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Comments
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kmptjr
Oct 27, 2010
Can a person become a Criminal Attorney with a juvinile/Adult record that doesnt have any felonies only guilty without findings, no time served, probation as a minor?
