I want to know about the law sector
I’m a student of Std XI, and I want to know about the growth and development in the law sector and career options available.
Amrish (16)
Lawyers, an essential force of modern society, represent clients in legal trials and situations. They act both as advocates and advisors. As advocates, they represent one of the opposing parties in criminal and civil trials. As advisors, they counsel their clients about their rights and obligations and suggest particular course of action.
Most of the lawyers are in general practice. They have offices where they meet clients and advise them on legal matters. Many lawyers work in large firms, where they engage in transactional work (including tax or corporate law) or litigation (either civil suits or criminal defence). Lawyers can also get jobs in Defence Services, PSU’s (Public Sector Units), banks, law firms, State Judicial Services, etc. Some lawyers do research and prepare legal documents such as contracts, while others may spend a great deal of time in court.
With the globalisation of the Indian industry, legal complexities are multiplying, opening challenging opportunities to law graduates. The corporate sector has become a major employer of lawyers. With the entry of multinational companies scope for lucrative job opportunities has further increased.
Law can be studied in two ways: 5-year integrated course after 10+2 or LL.B. or a 3 years course after graduation. Usually there is an entrance test for the former one Common law admission test (CLAT) (consortiumofnlus.ac.in). After these courses, there are opportunities for further studies like L.L.M (2 years) or diploma courses (1-2 years) in a specialised area such as international law, taxation, labour welfare, etc.
Dr Vibha Gupta, a feature writer, is a Ph.D. in Mathematics from IIT Roorkee. Her book Careers: A Pathfinder and articles in various publications are an attempt to guide students in choosing a career according to their natural strengths, talents and skills.