Attorneys


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Attorneys

Attorneys - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, lawyers:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Are often placed in conflict situations with clients or lawyers who are angry or unhappy.
  • Communicate by telephone, e-mail, letters, memos, and in person on a daily basis. They may on occasion speak in front of groups.
  • Have a medium to high level of social contact. They talk to clients, but also spend time alone researching and analyzing cases.
  • Are responsible for the work done by other workers, including paralegals, clerks, and other lawyers they may supervise.
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  • Regularly work in a group or team.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Always work indoors.

Work Performance

  • Must be exact in their work. Errors could cause delays or unfair rulings.
  • Regularly make decisions that greatly impact their employer's finances and reputation.
  • Make decisions that affect clients and other employees on a daily basis. They rarely consult a supervisor before deciding a course of action.
  • Set nearly all their daily tasks and goals without consulting a supervisor first.
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  • Work in a competitive atmosphere. They must abide by strict daily deadlines.
  • Repeat the same mental tasks.

Hours/Travel

  • Often work long hours. It is common for lawyers to work more than 50 hours a week.
  • Generally work a set schedule.
  • May travel to clients' homes or places of business.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.