Making a career in law is a dream of many. However not all students are able to become sucessfull lawyers. DR Sarfaraz Ahmed Khan shares tips that will help students in the long run

Lawyers have a huge responsibility on their shoulders, irrespective of the scope of their work or the area of law they practice. The way they handle their client's case can make a difference to the court's verdict, financial pacts or any other legal matter they deal with. Nowadays, lawyers are expected to remain updated about every area of law which is a given requirement to practice law. However, not all of them are successful because it takes a lot more than just knowing the existing laws or staying updated with the amendments.

Successful lawyers possess the following skills which make them stand out of the crowd:

Communication skills

Communications skills are a key requirement of every job, and the legal profession is not excluded from it either. You must have strong oral and written communication skills because legal profession requires both. Whether it is drafting correspondence, presenting arguments, filing pleadings/other documents in the Court or striking negotiations with clients/other lawyers/third parties, you must be able to present information in lucid, concise and logical manner. Moreover, listening skills are equally important to understand clients' needs and ensure that no points are missed out during interactions with other people.

Research and analytical skills

The scope of law is so extensive that it becomes challenging for lawyers to have a deep understanding of the facts and figures of each and every law or case. Some cases are so complex in nature that lawyers have to spend considerable time in referring archives, precedents and lengthy documents to dig out any information that could come handy in the current matters that they are dealing with. The real research skills also lies in extracting relevant information smartly in a short span of time. A successful lawyer’s job does not end with research. You have to analyse the gathered information logically to gain useful insights and draw conclusions.

Attention to detail

An eye for detail is another crucial skill to become a successful lawyer. Even the smallest detail or error can make or mar the case. It can even have huge cost implications for the client or lawyer himself. Hence, it is imperative to be detail-oriented and try not to overlook any information, no matter how trivial it may appear.

Technology skills

Successful lawyers need to be technology-savvy from two perspectives:

• Greater efficiency in their work: Today, there are various software applications that can help automate and digitise administrative tasks such as billing, research, data entry, information filing, correspondence  and help lawyers to reduce their time and effort, increase their productivity and focus on core tasks.

There are also advanced technology tools which can streamline contacts, manage deadlines and schedule tasks in an organised manner. Modern-day lawyers are also exploring artificial intelligence and analytics to conduct due diligence, review documents, and predict legal outcomes.

• Handle cases related to technology: Lawyers who can tackle cases pertaining to cybersecurity, blockchain, digital intellectual property and other technologies are in great demand today. You can carve a successful niche career for yourself by familiarising yourself with technology laws.

Ethics and integrity

Clients trust their lawyers with every little piece of information of their personal life or business in return of utmost confidentiality. Successful lawyers understand this and represent their client with the utmost ethics and integrity. They ensure that there is no conflict of interests with themselves or anyone. Successful lawyers maintain their personal/moral values and respect towards the judiciary system.

Collaboration

No lawyer can work in silos. They need to collaborate with their staff, partners, experts, witnesses and many other stakeholders to build a winning case, find new clients or ask for favours. Successful lawyers believe in teamwork and networking. They need to have strong skills and cultivate long-term relationships with everyone.

The above-mentioned skills are fundamental to excel in your legal career in addition to expertise and experience. 

The writer is Director, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad