Trial Attorney

Present evidence to defend clients or prosecute defendants in criminal or civil litigation.

Search for and examine public and other legal records to write opinions or establish ownership.

Prepare, draft, and review legal documents, such as wills, deeds, patent applications, mortgages, leases, and contracts.

Examine legal data to determine advisability of defending or prosecuting lawsuit.

Analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents.

Gather evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal actions, by such means as interviewing clients and witnesses to ascertain the facts of a case.

Prepare legal briefs and opinions, and file appeals in state and federal courts of appeal.

Select jurors, argue motions, meet with judges, and question witnesses during the course of a trial.

Represent clients in court or before government agencies.

Help develop federal and state programs, draft and interpret laws and legislation, and establish enforcement procedures.

Study Constitution, statutes, decisions, regulations, and ordinances of quasi-judicial bodies to determine ramifications for cases.

Interpret laws, rulings and regulations for individuals and businesses.

Present and summarize cases to judges and juries.

Advise clients concerning business transactions, claim liability, advisability of prosecuting or defending lawsuits, or legal rights and obligations.

Negotiate settlements of civil disputes.

Evaluate findings and develop strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases.

Supervise legal assistants.

Work in environmental law, representing public interest groups, waste disposal companies, or construction firms in their dealings with state and federal agencies.

Act as agent, trustee, guardian, or executor for businesses or individuals.

Probate wills and represent and advise executors and administrators of estates.