How to Become A Criminal Lawyer? A Step-by-Step Guide
Praveen Kushwah2 May, 2024
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How to Become A Criminal Lawyer?
How to Become A Criminal Lawyer: If you're intrigued by the idea of a career filled with excitement and challenges, becoming a criminal lawyer might be just the path for you. Whether you're drawn to the idea after binge-watching crime shows like How to Get Away With Murder, or you have a deep interest in justice, being a criminal defense lawyer can be both fulfilling and thought-provoking.
However, the journey to becoming a criminal lawyer is demanding and involves many steps. This guide will walk you through what it takes to become one, including their daily responsibilities and potential earnings.
Criminal lawyers, also known as criminal defense lawyers or public defenders, represent individuals accused of various crimes. They handle cases ranging from domestic abuse to drug charges, fraud, and corruption. To excel in this field, you'll need to thrive under pressure and think quickly on your feet. Since criminal cases often require thorough investigation and evidence gathering, being able to analyze facts swiftly is essential.
Who is a Criminal Lawyer?
A criminal lawyer is a type of lawyer who focuses on crimes and punishments. They help people who have been accused of committing a crime. Their work includes handling bail bond hearings, negotiating plea bargains, representing clients in trials, and dealing with appeals and post-conviction procedures. Criminal law is the set of rules that defines criminal acts, guides the process of arresting, prosecuting, and trying offenders, and determines the punishments and ways to rehabilitate criminals.
Criminal Lawyer Quick Facts
Here are some quick facts about pursuing a career as a Criminal Lawyer, including salary, suitability, and special needs considerations:
| Average Salary in India | ₹42000 |
|---|---|
| Suitable for | Male, Female |
Suitable for : Anyone interested in becoming a Criminal Lawyer, regardless of gender. Both men and women can pursue this career in India, enjoying equal benefits.
Any Special Needs : Yes. Individuals with physical disabilities can also pursue a career as a Criminal Lawyer. This career is suitable for everyone, including those with special needs, as long as they have the desire to succeed under all circumstances.
What is the role of Criminal Lawyer?
Learn about the crucial responsibilities of a Criminal Lawyer and the different types of Criminal Lawyers:
| Role | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Investigating and Evaluating Cases | Criminal Lawyers investigate cases, evaluate evidence, and predict outcomes to formulate defense strategies for their clients. They aim to resolve cases efficiently and effectively in court. |
| Providing Legal Advice | Criminal Lawyers advise clients on their legal rights, responsibilities, and options, helping them understand laws and make informed decisions in both personal and professional matters. |
| Counselling Clients | Criminal Lawyers interview clients to understand their situations, determine their goals, and provide guidance and support throughout legal proceedings. |
| Representing Clients | Criminal Lawyers represent clients in court, advocating for their rights, presenting evidence, and negotiating plea bargains, sentences, and settlements. |
What is the work environment of Criminal Lawyer like?
Explore the work environment, travel requirements, employment shifts, and other aspects of a career as a Criminal Lawyer:
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Workplace/Work Environment | Criminal Lawyers typically work in courtrooms, law firms, or legal offices, meeting clients in various settings such as homes, jails, or hospitals. They handle stressful situations and keep up with legal updates. |
| Travel Requirements | Travelling may be necessary for Criminal Lawyers to meet clients in different locations such as homes, prisons, or hospitals, as well as attend court hearings and meetings. |
| Employment Shifts | Criminal Lawyers may work full-time or part-time, providing legal services on an hourly basis. They can have permanent or contractual positions, often working in law firms or government agencies. |
| Employment Nature | Criminal Lawyers can find jobs in both contractual and permanent positions, with opportunities in government agencies, law firms, or as independent practitioners. |
| Presence in Geographical Area | Criminal Lawyers are in demand across rural, semi-urban, and urban areas. Major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai offer attractive job opportunities in law firms and corporations. |
| Time Pressure | Criminal Lawyers face time constraints due to the need to keep up with legal developments and prepare for court proceedings. They must efficiently represent their clients' interests in a limited timeframe. |
| Weekly Hours of Work | Criminal Lawyers often work more than 40 hours per week, researching, reviewing legal documents, and representing clients in court. They manage their workload based on client needs and case requirements. |
Steps to Become a Criminal Lawyer
Here are the steps you need to follow to pursue a career as a Criminal Lawyer:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 01 | Pursue Formal Training/Course: Start by completing your 10+2 education from a recognized board in India. Then, enroll in a bachelor’s degree program by clearing law entrance examinations like CLAT, AP LAWCET, AILET, PU BA LLB, DU LLB, LSAT. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you can opt for an entry-level job or pursue a master’s degree in Criminal Law. |
| 02 | Gain Required Skills: Develop both soft skills like adaptability, critical thinking, negotiation, leadership, and hard skills such as trial preparation, litigation, legal research, and client interviews. These skills are essential for a successful career as a Criminal Lawyer in India. |
| 03 | Pursue Additional Certification Course: Consider enrolling in specialized certification courses to enhance your skills and subject knowledge. Certifications like Criminal Justice Data Analysis, Certified Criminal Procedure Code Analyst, Criminalistics, and others can give weightage to your resume and help you stand out in the job market. |
| 04 | Register with State Bar Council of India: To practice law in India, you must register with the Bar Council of India (BCI) and pass the All India Bar Exam (AIBE). This exam ensures that you comply with the rules and regulations set by BCI. |
| 05 | Certificate of Practice (CoP): Upon passing the AIBE exam, you'll receive a Certificate of Practice (CoP), allowing you to practice law independently or with an organization in India. This certificate is mandatory and validates your eligibility to practice law professionally. |
| 06 | Build An Attractive Resume: Create a compelling resume highlighting your educational background, certifications, and interest in the field. Your resume should showcase your skills and qualifications effectively, making you a desirable candidate for internships and full-time job opportunities. |
| 07 | Pursue an Internship: Gain practical experience by interning at law firms and gaining courtroom exposure. Upload your resume on internship platforms like Internshala, twenty19, Naukri, and LinkedIn to explore internship opportunities and enhance your practical skills under professional guidance. |
| 08 | Apply for A Job: Once you complete your training or internship, start applying for full-time job positions on job portals like Indeed, Naukri, Monster, and LinkedIn. Tailor your resume to each job application and prepare for interviews to increase your chances of securing a job in your desired field. |
| 09 | Landing a Job: After attending interviews and receiving job offers, carefully evaluate each offer and choose the one that aligns with your career goals and preferences. Accept the job offer that best suits your aspirations and kickstart your career as a Criminal Lawyer in India. |
By following these steps diligently, you can embark on a successful journey towards becoming a Criminal Lawyer in India.
How to Become A Criminal Lawyer FAQs
Which degree is best for a criminal lawyer?
Can I become criminal lawyer after LLB?
What type of lawyer makes the most money?
How can I become a criminal lawyer after 10th?
Can I do criminal law after 12th?
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