Lawyer Job Description

What is the job description of a Lawyer? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Lawyer? What does a Lawyer do?

Job description of a Lawyer

Lawyers, also known as Barristers, are specialists in advocacy and represent individuals or organisations in court. They are independent sources of legal advice and can advise clients on their case. Generally, they are hired by solicitors to represent a case in court and only become involved once advocacy before a court is needed. They plead the case on behalf of the client and the client’s solicitor. However, members of the public can go directly to a barrister to ask for advice and representation in court.

Lawyers usually specialise in particular areas of law such as criminal law, chancery law (estates and trusts), commercial law, entertainment law, sports law and common law, which includes family, housing and personal injury law.

This Lawyer job description example includes the list of most important Lawyer duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Lawyer profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Lawyer Duties and Responsibilities

Lawyer job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Representing clients in court;
  • Presenting arguments in court;
  • Drafting legal documents;
  • Negotiating settlements.
  • Taking instruction from clients and their solicitors;
  • Undertaking legal research into relevant points of law;
  • Writing opinions and advising solicitors and other professionals;
  • Understanding and interpreting the law;
  • Mastering and managing legal briefs (cases);
  • Preparing cases for court, including holding client conferences, preparing legal arguments, etc.;
  • Advising clients on matters of law and evidence and the strength of their case;
  • Examining and cross-examining witnesses;
  • Summing up the reasons why the court should support the client’s case;

Lawyer Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Lawyer job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree in Law (essential).
  • Admitted Attorney of at least two years standing.
  • Experience in drafting, negotiating and reviewing legal documents.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication and public speaking skills.
  • Analytical thinker with strong conceptual and research skills.
  • Natural leader who displays sound judgment and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Lawyer starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Lawyer job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Lawyer may also reference it in preparation for the interview.