Most people might imagine a typical day for a lawyer as being filled with impassioned speeches to juries or stakeouts with police; however, in reality it can be far more complex.
The day-to-day duties of an attorney depend on their area of legal practice, from personal injury law to real estate transactions, but also whether or not they work as government attorneys or at law firms. Self-employed solo practitioners or part of large or niche law firms could all make up part of an attorney’s responsibilities while others could provide administrative, executive or legislative staff duties.
Lawyers dedicate much of their time not only to research and document drafting but also appearing before judges and juries for trial appearances. Other attorneys may spend significant amounts of time negotiating settlements, conducting depositions and preparing for trial.
A day in the life of a lawyer also includes meeting with clients to discuss issues, concerns and possible legal strategies. Meeting clients and discussing these matters with them is one of the most satisfying parts of their job; seeing someone feel more at ease when taking legal action after engaging in intelligent discussion with their lawyer. On the flip side of that coin however, sometimes having to give bad news such as telling someone their idea may not be legally viable can be difficult or that their case has gone against them can also be tough going.
As the day winds down, most attorneys take a short break to check their emails and respond to any new messages or memos they’ve received. This quiet period allows the mind to remain sharp while performing these tasks effectively. Many lawyers also use this time to prepare for tomorrow’s hearings or meetings by reviewing files and creating memorandums, pleadings or any necessary documents that need preparing.
Before leaving their cars to head into work, most attorneys ensure they have all their personal items packed up, including lunches and anything needed for court or client meetings. This helps eliminate any scrambling for things they need in the morning as they try to leave on time.
Attorneys with children tend to prepare as much as they can the night before so that after an exhausting day in court or the office, there’s still plenty of time to relax with family. Furthermore, lawyers working with technology often explore software or programs which might save them time or allow them to complete more work remotely; this is especially beneficial for attorneys with busy travel or work schedules.
