Whether you aspire to enter the field of law, or you are looking for a lawyer to represent you, there are several qualities that a great lawyer should possess. Beyond obtaining a degree in law, successful lawyers go above and beyond by developing these 10 qualities.
- Communication Skills
Public speaking is a huge part of being a lawyer. It is important to be comfortable speaking in front of a courtroom of juries, judges and large groups of people. Being articulate and possessing excellent communication skills are essential when it comes to presenting a convincing argument in a courtroom.
- Interpersonal Skills
People skills are crucial for developing a trusting relationship with the client and everyone else a lawyer works with it. No matter how well one performs academically, the most important part of being a legal professional is having the ability to work with people. Having great interpersonal skills allows lawyers to build relationships as well as reading people and their reactions.
- Research Skills
Excellent research skills are essential. Any lawyer or law student knows just how much research is required to succeed in the field. The ability to comprehend a large quantity of information assists a lawyer to understand their client and their requirements, as well as preparing effective legal
strategies for their cases.
- Analytical Skills
Similarly, a great lawyer requires good analytical skills in order to make sense of the extensive amounts of information they face each day. Studying and practising law both involve absorbing a large number of facts and evaluating them to find a logical solution.
- Logical Judgement
Being able to think logically and make reasonable conclusions and judgements is essential as a lawyer. This assists with predicting weaknesses in their own argument as well as taking advantage of weaknesses in the opposition’s argument. Great lawyers are able to make logical decisions and judgement calls without hesitation or doubt.
- Reading Comprehension Skills
With all of the complicated information involved in the extensive research and legal documents, great lawyers are always equipped with excellent reading comprehension skills. This allows them to efficiently and thoroughly understand all of the complex information they are presented with in order to build their argument.
- Writing Skills
Arguments, briefs, motions and other legal documents all require excellent writing skills. A lawyer must possess outstanding written communication skills in order to produce persuasive arguments and captivating motions, improving their chances of winning the case.
- Passion
Landing a law degree and simply going through the motions is not enough for a great lawyer. They also need to have a passion for their work and a drive
to constantly learn, grow and improve. This motivation is what makes them the best at what they do.
- Creativity
Sometimes, going strictly by the book isn’t enough to solve certain problems. Some exceptional situations require a lawyer to think outside the box.
Great lawyers possess the creativity to find a reasonable solution in these circumstances, outmanoeuvring the opponent with their creative problem solving.
- Perseverance
With all of the long hours and heavy research that comes with being a lawyer, perseverance and commitment is essential for success. A great lawyer
is not only dedicated to putting in the time required to get the job done, but they also go out of their way to fight for their clients.
If you’re looking for a suitable lawyer for your individual situation, Personal Injury Helpline can refer you to a variety of legal advisors. Get in touch today for personal and professional advice.
