There is a myth that having a high level of education, and being smart and skilled are the keys to being the most successful attorney. However, if you create a list of the top ten people in a particular field and compare it to the list, the ten highest-paid in the same field, you will see some correlation. Law isn’t an exception to this truth. Thus, being a learned lawyer isn’t enough especially for someone looking for an experienced attorney to handle criminal cases, and other cases involving bankruptcy, personal injury lawsuits, and more.
Indeed, ‘success’ is a skill on its own. Beyond just having a deep understanding of the law, the key to being a successful lawyer lies in mastering some crucial skills. According to Fisher & Talwar, a popular law firm based in Los Angeles, here are important skills every lawyer should have.
Excellent communication skills
Attorneys must be good listeners, orally articulate, and have good written communication skills. Good public speaking skills are also essential for the lawyer to argue convincingly before the juries and judges in a courtroom.
They should also write persuasively, clearly, and concisely when producing different legal documents. However, everything isn’t all about projection. Excellent listening skills are important when it comes to analyzing what a client says, following a complex testimony, and analyzing these issues to create an effective defense.
Analytical skills
The study and practice of law require an individual to absorb large volumes of information and distilling that information into something logical and manageable. At times, the lawyer may find more than one conclusion or precedent applicable to resolving a particular situation. Thus, it’s up to the attorney to evaluate and analyze each viable option and choose the most appropriate.
Creativity
A great attorney is not only analytical and logical but also reveal a great deal of creativity when it comes to solving problems. It’s worth mentioning that the best solution to court cases isn’t the most obvious. Thus, for an attorney to outmaneuver a challenger, it’s advisable to think outside the box.
Your lawyer’s creativity and open-mindedness can be the difference between losing and winning a court case.
Research and investigative skills
Finding the right information about your case as well as authoritative information in the appropriate books and web can be a daunting task, especially if the lawyer has limited time. Attorneys will tell you that when they were in law school, there was plenty of research papers.
Unfortunately, an attorney’s opinion doesn’t stand up in a courtroom unless it’s backed with impressive facts. That’s where investigation and research come in. The lawyer must work in unison with investigators, research laws, and use online resources to understand regulations and judicial opinions to back your arguments up.
Emotional intelligence
Defendants need the personal empathy connection, and perspective to feel satisfied and whole. Besides, the lawyer’s colleagues need respect, understanding, and engagement.
Being a lawyer means becoming a man or woman of many hats. The law schools teach lawyers some of the skills they need but can’t teach character. Therefore, if you intend to hire a lawyer, consider working with a professional with the skills discussed here.
