Page 177 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Lawyer
Occupation Code: 2611
Alternative titles: Advocate, Barrister
Job description and duties
Lawyers provide advice on legal issues to their clients, which may include individuals, private/ public organisations, NGOs and/or government agencies. They represent their clients in Law Court cases and disputes and may be entrusted to handle all relevant issues with the aim of finding a legal remedy.
Lawyers typically specialise in particular legal areas during their studies and establish a career working in that particular area such as civil and family law, criminal law, commercial law, technology and intellectual property, human rights and labour law, among several others. Although duties vary according to work setting, a Lawyer is typically expected to:
• Study the details of a law or regulation and interpret it for clients
• Analyse legal evidence
• Keep up-to-date on new laws and changes
in regulations
• Research and examine previous legal cases
and rulings
• Advise the best course of action for an
external client, or internal client (colleague) when working as an in-house Lawyer from a legal perspective
• Handle court cases and prepare all necessary documentation and evidence
• Representing clients in courts, tribunals and public enquiries and present arguments persuasively
• Prepare legal documents such as wills, lawsuits, contracts, agreements and deeds
• Liaise with other Lawyers, colleagues and senior management and government departments
• Supervise a team of Legal Assistants (where applicable)
• Abide by the professional code of conduct
Work environment
Lawyers are required across different contexts such as providing in-house legal services to firms such as banks, investment and insurance firms, aviation companies, iGaming companies and technology enterprises. The state also hires Lawyers to represent the government, as well as to provide legal services to those who cannot afford a private Lawyer.
Lawyers tend to spend most of their time in offices reviewing laws and various in-house company policies, preparing cases and writing up documentation and drafting agreements and advising on various matters. Lawyers also spend time in courts representing their clients. Lawyers may also choose to set up their own small legal services firm as self-employed Lawyers.
Occupational Handbook 2018
177