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Public Interest Lawyers

Overview

Lawyers, or attorneys, help clients know their rights under the law and then help them achieve these rights before a judge, jury, government agency, or other legal forum, such as an arbitration panel. Lawyers represent individuals and for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Lawyers often choose a field of law in which to specialize. Lawyers specializing in public interest law provide a wide range of services to those who otherwise could not afford legal representation. They also work for organizations advocating for a particular cause. Their work is often done pro bono—for the public good—voluntarily and without payment. The American Bar Association, the largest association for legal professionals, has a Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service. Approximately 657,170 lawyers work in the United States today in various legal specialties.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000

Minimum Education Level

Law Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average
Personality Traits

Organized

Problem-Solving

Realistic

Career Ladder
Law Professor, or Judge, or Organization Head

Supervisory Lawyer

Public Interest Lawyer

Law Clerk or Intern

Related Professions