The popular perception is of men and women arguing eloquently in paneled courtrooms - dramatically wrestling over criminal cases or civil lawsuits. But there's more to law than that. The United States has a complex legal system that traces its roots back to English common law. Attorneys act as advisors to people in a variety of circumstances when they must, for whatever the reason, deal with the law. They also act as advocates, arguing their clients' case in front of judges and juries, or negotiating with the lawyers of other parties when any kind of legal agreement is necessary.
Some lawyers specialize in courtroom work.
Others focus on law as it applies to large corporations, or taxes, or communications. Still others do public-interest work. About 10 percent of all attorneys in the U.S. work for some branch of the government. Lawyers are considered officers of the court, meaning they are licensed by the courts to present cases through oral and written arguments, and to apply the law through the legal process. In addition, lawyers have ethical responsibilities and duties as specified by the rules of professional conduct.