11 Different Types Of Lawyer - And What They Do
According to the American Bar Association, there are over 1.3 million lawyers in the United States. That means there is a lawyer for everyone, each with a unique area of specialization, also known as "practice areas."
Author:Karan EmeryReviewer:Frazer PughOct 28, 202225.8K Shares344.5K Views
According to the American Bar Association, there are over 1.3 million lawyers in the United States. That means there is a lawyer for everyone, each with a unique area of specialization, also known as "practice areas."
Choosing the right legal representative for your needs is important to getting the best possible outcome for your case. That's why we have put together this list of eleven different types of lawyers and what they do to help you make an informed decision.
Criminal Defense lawyers
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals accused of committing a crime. They defend their clients in court to ensure their legal rights are protected.
The main job of a criminal defense attorneyis to help the defendant avoid conviction by negotiating with prosecutors or arguing their case in court. If a client is convicted, these attorneys may handle appeal cases to restore their client's freedom or reduce their sentence.
Criminal lawyers can work as public defenders or private attorneys. Public defenders are often government appointees representing clients who can't afford legal representation. On the other hand, private lawyers offer their services to clients who can afford to hire their own attorneys.
Personal Injury Lawyers
Personal injury lawyers represent people who have sustained injuries due to someone else's negligence or wrongful actions. These injuries are often due to auto accidents, defective products, unsafe work conditions, assault, or medical malpractice.
A personal injury attorney may help victims and their families prove fault and collect damages from negligent parties to compensate them for their damages. They also negotiate settlements with insurance companies and may file a personal injury lawsuit when their client and the insurer cannot reach a fair settlement.
When looking for personal injury representation, choosing a local lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours is essential. For example, if you live in a state like Pennsylvania, you can request a free consultation at Munley Law firmto learn more about personal injury laws in PA, the validity of your case, and your legal options.
Estate Planning Lawyers
An estate planning lawyer often deals with laws related to wills, property rights, trusts, and probates. They use this knowledge to help their clients create wills and estate plans that meet their individual needs and tax requirements. Estate planning lawyers may also help resolve inheritance disputes among family members after the death of a loved one.
Employment and Labor Lawyers
Employment and labor lawyers help individuals and businesses address issues related to workplace law. These issues may include discrimination and harassment, hiring practices, wage and hour laws, workers’ compensation, and pension security.
An employment lawyer may prepare employment contracts and help employees file complaints if their employers violate the terms of those contracts. An employer can also hire an employment lawyer to help them prevent legal pitfalls or defend them against lawsuits filed by former employees.
Business Lawyers
Also known as corporate lawyers, these legal representatives advise business owners on various legal issuespertaining to their companies. They also ensure companies carry out all business transactions according to state and federal laws.
Common areas a business entity attorney may help with include commercial transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, patents, and liability disputes. Some lawyers may also offer legal advice to entrepreneurs starting their own businesses, helping them implement their plans accordingly.
Intellectual Property Lawyers
Intellectual property (IP) refers to inventions, designs, symbols, names, and other individual or organizational creations of the mind. These creations can be protected by intellectual property laws, which grant certain property owner rights.
IP lawyers help businesses and individual inventors obtain patents and other legal protection for their creative works. They may also advise their clients on copyright, trademark, and trade secret infringement issues.
Family Lawyers
Family lawyers have a thorough understanding of family law and use their knowledge to help their clients resolve domestic disputes. Common issues these attorneys deal with include divorce, child custody, alimony, and adoption.
A family lawyer can help clients prepare documents such as marriage contracts, prenuptial agreements, and separation agreements. They can also represent clients in divorce hearings and negotiations, helping them negotiate more favorable settlements.
Immigration Lawyers
The process of acquiring US citizenship can be daunting. That's why many immigrants seek out the services of an immigration lawyer to help them through the naturalization process.
Immigration lawyers can advise their clients on immigration requirements and help them complete the necessary paperwork. Asylum seekers and employees working on visas should seek the assistance of these attorneys for guidance.
Entertainment Lawyers
Today's entertainment industry is a cutthroat business in which high-profile entertainment casesoften reach the public eye. If you are an artist, athlete, or actor involved in a dispute regarding royalties, licensing fees, or copyrights, you will need the services of an entertainment lawyer.
An entertainment lawyer may help clients secure talent releases, negotiate contracts, and protect their rights and interests. Artists seeking to join or create a union can also consult these attorneys before finalizing agreements.
Tax Lawyers
Tax lawyers advise businesses and individuals on various issues relating to taxation. They are experts in their field and have a vast knowledge of federal and state tax laws.
Accounting firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and businesses can contract tax lawyers to help them interpret tax laws and tax planning. Since tax laws change often, it is important to hire a tax lawyer who stays up to date on the latest developments in this field.
Bankruptcy Lawyers
The Bankruptcy Code permits individuals and organizations to obtain financial relief by filing a petition under Title 11 of the United States Code. However, filing the petition alone is risky since you may be unsure of the process or overlook important details.
If you are looking to file for bankruptcy, you should consider hiring a competent bankruptcy lawyer. These attorneys can help you navigate the intricacies of the bankruptcy process, ensuring you file your petition properly and promptly.
Karan Emery
Author
Karan Emery, an accomplished researcher and leader in health sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, brings over two decades of experience to the table. Holding a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Stanford University, Karan's credentials underscore her authority in the field.
With a track record of groundbreaking research and numerous peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, Karan's expertise is widely recognized in the scientific community.
Her writing style is characterized by its clarity and meticulous attention to detail, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Apart from her professional endeavors, Karan enjoys cooking, learning about different cultures and languages, watching documentaries, and visiting historical landmarks.
Committed to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes, Karan Emery continues to make significant contributions to the fields of health, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
Frazer Pugh
Reviewer
Frazer Pugh is a distinguished expert in finance and business, boasting over 6 years of experience. Holding an MBA in Finance from Stanford University, Frazer's credentials underscore his authority and expertise in the field.
With a successful track record in executive roles and as a published author of influential articles on financial strategy, his insights are both deep and practical.
Beyond his professional life, Frazer is an avid traveler and culinary enthusiast, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and cuisines.
His commitment in delivering trustworthy analysis and actionable advice reflects his dedication to shaping the world of finance and business, making a significant impact through his work.
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