Function

Defense attorneys counsel people accused of a crime about their legal rights and options and confer with their clients to decide what course of action to take. Attorneys then act on behalf of their clients by arguing their innocence or making a case for as lenient a sentence as possible.

Types

Public defenders work for a particular county or state or the federal government and provide legal help for people accused of a crime who cannot afford to pay. Other defense attorneys work individually or for law firms and charge fees to clients who desire representation.

Features

Defense attorneys conduct research about laws and previous trials or cases to determine the best course of action. In a court room, defense attorneys address the judge or a jury, arguing against a district attorney.

Skills

To be successful as a defense attorney, it is necessary to be persuasive, creative, skilled in public speaking and problem solving, and able to communicate effectively aloud and in writing. Defense attorneys must be able to remain calm under pressure and be unafraid of working closely with individuals who may be dangerous.

Education

To become a defense attorney, it is necessary to receive a bachelor's degree, typically in a humanities-related field like English or political science, and then attend law school for three years. After graduation, defense attorneys must pass the state bar exam, a lengthy written test.

Source:

Defense Attorney Careers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics