<p>I'm very interested in law and possibly being a lawyer. That said, I have somewhat of a fear of public speaking. I realize getting into the profession could help me overcome this, but do lawyers have to speak? I've heard that many lawyers never actually go to court or something. Any information would be helpful. TY :D</p>
<p>not all lawyers go to court. you could well end up with a job in which you rarely if ever have to go into a public forum where you will have to "present your case."</p>
<p>however, habing good verbal skills is importantfor a lawyer. you may have to present your position to senior attorneys or to clients. you have to feel comfortable and confident in presenting your conclusions even when you are being vigorously questioned about them. senior attorneys and clients can be even more difficult than the opposing side or a judge in questioning you!!</p>
<p>being able to write is also important -- but if you can't also follow up with speaking up for yourself, you could well find yourself at a disadvantage with the other attorneys you work with -- most of whom will have little trouble expressing their opinion.</p>
<p>There is always training in public speaking and confidence (toastmasters etc.). But you do not have to be a litigator and in fact, many firms will not let you lititgate if they do not feel you have to have the right skills set. Litigation is usually considered an elite department because you have know at once the substantive law as well as procedural law cold and be able to raise objections based on evidence. This is why trial lawyers tend to be the top earners.</p>
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This is why trial lawyers tend to be the top earners.
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<p>While litigators can certainly be very well compensated, so can many other lawyers. Many of the best compensated partners at law firms are also corporate lawyers.</p>
<p>The ability to express onesself articulately and confidently in public is extremely important in every area of law of which I am aware. You need to be able to persuade, describe and elicit confidence as a lawyer, regardless of your area of practice.</p>