A movie shows a courtroom. The judge is in charge. The jury will pick the verdict. But all eyes are on one person. A lawyer is making a fiery speech.

Question

Is that what lawyers do in real life? Only sometimes!

All lawyers know a lot about laws. But they do many different things. Some lawyers don't take part in trials. Maybe you'd like being a lawyer, even if you don't like making speeches.

Criminal Lawyers

Who do you often see in movies? Criminal lawyers. They defend people charged with crimes or argue against them. Trials are held for some cases. Others are worked out without going to court.

Business Lawyers

Like to make deals? Business law might suit you. Lots of lawyers help companies. Many write contracts. Some give advice about taxes. Some help companies buy other companies. Some help companies protect their ideas and brands. They keep other companies from copying those special things.

Environmental Lawyers

Some laws protect Earth and living things. The Clean Water Act is an example. Environmental lawyers help companies follow the rules. They are also hired by people to fight companies that break the rules.

What It Takes to Become a Lawyer

Lawyers must know how to do research. They need good reading, writing, and speaking skills.

To become a lawyer, people go to college for four years. Then they attend law school for three years. To work as a lawyer in most states in the United States, a person needs to pass a test. It's called a bar exam.

You've read about a few kinds of lawyers. But there are many more. Some work for movie stars or pro athletes. Some fight for people's rights, such as free speech.

Think it over. What's your verdict? Would you like to be a lawyer?

Think about and discuss these questions:
What evidence from the article supports the idea that it can take dedication to become a lawyer?
What skills should someone have to become a successful lawyer? What evidence from the article supports your response?
Question 3


3 / 4

The article says:

To become a lawyer, people go to college for four years. Then they attend law school for three years. To work as a lawyer in most states in the United States, a person needs to pass a test.

Which words from the passage help you understand the meaning of the word attend?

pass a test
work as a lawyer
become a lawyer
go to college

Answer 1

To address your questions:

1. What evidence from the article supports the idea that it can take dedication to become a lawyer?

   The article states, "To become a lawyer, people go to college for four years. Then they attend law school for three years." This indicates that becoming a lawyer requires a significant time commitment and dedication to academic study. Additionally, the necessity to "pass a test" (the bar exam) adds to the indication that a strong commitment and effort are needed to succeed in this field.

2. What skills should someone have to become a successful lawyer? What evidence from the article supports your response?

   The article suggests that lawyers need "good reading, writing, and speaking skills" and also must know how to do "research." This points to the importance of strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and a solid understanding of legal materials. These skills are crucial for effectively advocating for clients, drafting legal documents, and presenting arguments.

3. Which words from the passage help you understand the meaning of the word attend?

   The words "go to college" help provide context for understanding the meaning of "attend." In this context, "attend" means to go to or be present at a place for a specific educational purpose (in this case, law school). The phrasing implies both physical presence and participation in the academic environment.