What does a lawyer do?
A Lawyer, also known as a solicitor, is a legal professional who has extensive training and knowledge of the law. Applying their expertise, they provide legal advice to clients and work to provide the best outcome for them within the confines of the law and their ethical obligations. Careers in law often involve meeting with clients, conducting research, going to court, negotiating settlements, business development, and preparing legal arguments and documents.
If you’re considering the different types of lawyers, it’s worth noting you can become qualified as a corporate lawyer or specialise in, criminal, family, immigration, personal injury, real estate, intellectual property, animal, and environmental law. As a solicitor you could choose to work in a variety of settings including legal firms, government departments, corporate organisations, or not-for-profits.
Is a career as a lawyer right for me?
If you’ve got a strong moral compass and have always been partial to a good debate you might enjoy a legal career, including working as a lawyer. Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
- strong communication skills
- good problem-solving skills
- an ability to understand, analyse and use facts quickly and logically
- confidence
- the ability to negotiate
- the ability to work well under pressure
- good interpersonal skills.
How to become a lawyer
Becoming a lawyer in Australia typically involves completing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree. After finishing your degree, you must complete practical legal training (PLT), and then apply for admission to the legal profession. Some lawyers also choose to specialise further through postgraduate qualifications in areas like corporate law, criminal law, or environmental law.
At UniSQ, we offer degrees that equip you with the essential legal knowledge and practical experience necessary to pursue a career in law, with opportunities to specialise in areas that interest you.
Average salary per week
$1870
Future demand
Very Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
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Lawyer FAQs
What is the average lawyer salary in Australia?
The average lawyer salary in Australia varies depending on experience, location, and the area of law practised. Senior lawyers or those working in high-demand fields such as corporate law or intellectual property law can earn more.
Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
What are the responsibilities of a lawyer?
A lawyer’s responsibilities can vary depending on their area of specialisation, but generally include:
- Advising clients on various legal matters and representing them in court.
- Conducting research on past cases to guide and support current legal work.
- Drafting legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and letters.
- Preparing for court cases by organising witnesses, researching legal precedents, and developing legal arguments.
- Managing financial records and overseeing client funds.
- Instructing barristers to appear in court on behalf of clients when necessary.
- Providing legal counsel on matters related to family law, commercial law, company law, partnerships, and trusts.
- Handling conveyancing, drafting mortgage contracts, and overseeing property sales.
- Acting as a trustee, guardian, or executor for clients’ wills, ensuring their wishes are carried out legally.
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
The time it takes to become a lawyer in Australia typically involves three to four years of full-time study to complete a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). After that, you must complete practical legal training (PLT), which generally takes six to twelve months. In total, it usually takes around five years to qualify as a practising lawyer, depending on the time taken for training and admission.
Are lawyers in demand in Australia?
Yes, lawyers are in high demand in Australia. particularly in growing areas like corporate, commercial, and family law. Lawyers with specialised knowledge in emerging fields such as cybersecurity, privacy law, and environmental law are also seeing an increase in demand. While competition for jobs in some sectors can be intense, those with the right qualifications and experience are well-positioned for a successful legal career.
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