What does an Attorney do?
Attorneys generally specialize in certain areas of the law, for example, corporate law, contract law, criminal law, taxation law, and immigration law, among others. Attorneys will often perform a broad range of duties. Attorneys can provide mediation services to resolve disputes. They also take on more technical responsibilities such as researching legal precedents and gathering evidence to provide both legal advice to clients and best represent them in court. Day to day, Attorneys will also draw up legal documents, including real estate transactions, wills, divorces, and contracts.
Attorney skills and qualifications
A combination of strong research and comprehension skills, and excellent communication and people skills are key skills for a successful Attorney. Both elements are imperative to perform the role well, as complex research and investigation are often necessary, alongside the ability to present those findings to clients and provide legal advice based on the research undertaken. Top skills for Attorneys include:
- Proficient multi-tasking, as Attorneys often work for multiple clients on multiple tasks on any given day
- Excellent research and analysis capabilities to provide informed legal opinions
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including advising, representing, and negotiating on the behalf of clients
- Thorough knowledge of law, government, and business
- Attention to detail during research projects and in the creation of legal documents
- Ability to work independently and self-direct work
Attorney experience requirements
Candidates will have experience in the legal industry before undertaking an Attorney position. Applicants with 2+ years of experience within Legal Assistant, Paralegal, or other junior positions will often have a good understanding of the industry. Any relevant internship experience is also beneficial.
Attorney education and training requirements
Attorneys must successfully complete the bar examination to be legally able to practice law. Licensing by the provincial or territorial law society is also required, though regulatory bodies vary by region. Candidates are often expected to have completed a period of articling to qualify for the role.
Attorney Salary Expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, an Attorney in Canada can expect to earn an average salary of $121,800 per year. This varies depending on location, experience, and size of the company hiring.
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