LawyersBay
Legal professionals work in many different areas of the law. Typically, large law firms have attorneys who can handle transactions and litigation involving multiple practice areas.
Those seeking legal assistance should consider the type of lawyer specializing in the specific area of law they require. This will ensure they receive the most competent representation and guidance.
Read More: How Land Developers Can Stay On Top Of Environmental Laws
Contents
Litigation Attorneys
Litigation attorneys are a vital component of any legal team, and they handle civil lawsuits. They are familiar with the court procedures and rules that govern cases and are involved in drafting pleadings and conducting discovery, pretrial, trial, and post-trial motions.
These professionals will thoroughly investigate your case, taking witness statements and gathering evidence to support your claim. They will also be able to negotiate with the defending party to secure financial compensation for their clients.
Workers’ compensation lawyers, for example, ensure that individuals who have suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a workplace accident get proper closure and financial compensation.
Business Lawyers
Business lawyers focus on the legal aspects of business and commerce. They work with companies to help them understand how different laws affect their business and provide advice on best practices.
They also help clients create business structures and register them. This can save the company money for years and shield them from liability.
These professionals can also help with worker’s compensation, disability, and other sensitive matters. A lawyer knowledgeable of employment law can prevent costly lawsuits over discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination claims.
Employment Lawyers
Employment lawyers deal with issues relating to workplace relationships. They can help companies comply with regulations for hiring and firing employees and provide representation in contentious cases like sexual harassment or wrongful termination. Employment attorneys may work in private law services, for the government, or as part of an in-house legal department.
They can also handle non-contentious matters, such as advising clients on correctly classifying positions or negotiating workers’ compensation claims with insurance companies. They may charge by the hour or on a contingency fee basis.
Tax Lawyers
As the name suggests, tax attorneys focus on tax-related matters, including legal disputes with the IRS. They also help individuals and businesses plan and file the appropriate tax paperwork.
These professionals also can provide tax relief programs, such as installment agreements, offers in compromise, and penalty abatements. They also offer invaluable behind-the-scenes assistance by advising clients about the tax implications of buying and selling property, setting up a business, or moving abroad.
When choosing a tax lawyer, look for one that offers a free consultation without any pressure tactics. They should be able to clearly explain how they can help resolve your dispute and answer any questions you may have.
Insurance Lawyers
Insurance lawyers protect the financial interests of insurance companies against policyholder disputes. They also ensure that insurance company practices align with local laws and regulations. This includes analyzing policies and precedent cases for accurate interpretation and handling disputes between insured parties. These attorneys may work for large law firms or directly for insurance providers.
If needed, they can negotiate and settle insurance claims and attend pretrial hearings, case management conferences, and trials. They might also conduct investigations of potential fraud and malpractice by professionals such as architects, engineers, surveyors, accountants, and financial advisers.
Read More: Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid: Tips from Experienced Lawyers
Patent Attorneys
Patent attorneys advise and represent clients in patent-related matters, whether drafting or filing applications or prosecuting patent infringement cases. They have in-depth knowledge of the complex requirements of patent law and how they are interpreted by courts based on established precedent.
To become a patent attorney, a lawyer must pass both a state bar exam and the patent practitioner examination, or “patent bar.” Patent lawyers work in intellectual property groups of law firms, the legal services of large industrial companies, or have private practice. They must have strong backgrounds in technology and often specialize in particular technical areas.
Civil Rights Lawyers
Civil rights lawyers fight for the legal rights of individuals who are victims of governmental injustice. They work on cases dealing with discrimination, equal pay, housing, voting rights, prison conditions, sexual abuse, and police misconduct.
During their law studies, students pursuing this career path should take courses related to human rights, public speaking, and government. They may also benefit from working as a summer intern for an advocacy organization or law firm to gain experience and learn relevant skills. Typical job duties include performing legal research, interviewing clients, and preparing documents.