As an advisor, the lawyer counsels his client in avoiding adverse legal consequences of proposed actions, tailors legal documents which conform business and personal arrangements to comply with the law and advises his client as to what his rights and obligations are in dealing with other people and entities. When most people think of lawyers, they think of a trial lawyer such as Perry Mason or Joyce Davenport. In reality, lawyers spend the majority of their time outside the courtroom setting. Lawyers consult with clients, take depositions, research legal issues, draw up contracts, prepare deeds and title opinions, negotiate settlements and perform other non-courtroom work. Areas of practice vary widely and include everything from admiralty to workmen's compensation.
Some attorneys work in governmental positions, teach or become judges.
Because of the wide opportunities available to a person with a law degree, your decision to become a lawyer should not be limited to the concept of an attorney in the traditional sense. It also is important that you begin a pattern of making good grades at this stage. No certain courses need to be studied in college to prepare for law school. The American Association of Law Schools recommends a curriculum emphasizing English, Speech, History, Philosophy, Mathematics, Accounting and Social Science. Regardless of your undergraduate background, good skills in writing, communicating, analysis and critical thinking are imperative.