Litigation Attorney - How to Get There from Here

Firefighter, policeman, pilot, teacher, singer, artist, doctor, nurse – all of these are common answers that are given when children are asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Few, if any, ever respond with “litigation attorney.” Eventually some of those cute kids will take an interest in law and start pursuing a career as a lawyer. But what is needed to follow that dream and make it a reality?

Unlike the medical field, there generally is not a “pre-law” track at a majority of schools. Students who are interested in pursuing a career as a lawyer usually major in political science, philosophy, history or English. Once their Bachelor’s degree is completed, they must then go on to law school and earn their Juris Doctorate before taking the Bar exam.

While in law school, most students will be required to complete at least one internship. It is during the internship that the law student gets some hands-on experience with the inner-workings of a law office and may find a specialty that he wants to work within. It is likely that if a law student works with a litigation attorney, he may develop an interest in that type of practice.

So what steps need to be taken to move from a high school student to litigation attorney? First, complete high school and move on to an accredited college or university. Talk with an advisor about possible majors that will help prepare you for law school. While working towards your Bachelor’s degree, begin looking into law schools that are reputable and find out what is required to gain acceptance to the school.

Once you are in law school – study hard! You will need all the experience you are gaining to prepare for the Bar exam. After graduation you will have to sit for this exam in order to be able to practice law as a licensed attorney.

Upon passing the bar exam, you will be legally qualified to practice law in your state. However, you will likely need to work in an established office for some time before you are ready to open your own practice and be your own boss. However, working in an established office can be a boon to your experience and qualifications. As you work with an experience litigation attorney, you will learn how to be an effective representative for your clients and how to handle many different situations.

The process involved in becoming a litigation attorney can seem daunting. However, it is a rewarding and noble career choice that many believe is well worth all the work it takes to get there. If you are motivated and dedicated, this career choice is well within your grasp. All you have to do is reach out and grab it!