Summary
What is the role of the lawyer?
Build a defense
The main mission of the lawyer consists in defending the interests of his client. Before a trial, he gathers as much information as possible and studies case law to prepare his case. He then develops his arguments during a plea.
He can also negotiate with the opposing party in order to obtain an agreement and avoid the trial.
Dealing with various cases
Divorces, conflicts between employers and employees, non-respect of a commercial contract, merger and takeover of companies… the cases dealt with are of very different natures. They relate to both civil and criminal matters.
To specialize
The lawyer can be versatile but it is better to specialize: there are many lawyers on the job market and the competition is fierce. Business law and business consulting are the most sought-after specialties.
What are the working conditions of a lawyer?
Multiple practice locations
The lawyer can practice in different structures: as an associate in a firm, an employee in a company or even self-employed. Beginning lawyers do their ranges in practice most of the time.
Note: almost half of the lawyers practice in Ile-de-France.
An office job
The daily life of the lawyer therefore varies according to the structure chosen. Either way, it’s a desk job. The preparation of files and the study of case law constitute the major part of the activity.
How much does a lawyer earn?
A starting lawyer can earn between €1,500 and €2,300 per month. His income can then double or even triple, depending on the specialty chosen, the experience acquired and the place of practice.
How to become a lawyer?
The studies to become a lawyer are long and rather difficult.
First step: obtain at least a master 1 in law.
Pass the entrance exam
Then, you have to pass the bar exam to enter a regional center for professional training of lawyers (CRFPA), attached to the various French Courts of Appeal.
This competition, very selective, is difficult to pass the first time. It takes place in 2 stages:
- the written tests first: 1 summary note, 2 legal subjects (compositions) and 1 practical written test (practical case or judgment comment);
- once the writings have been passed, it’s time for the orals: 5 tests on compulsory or non-compulsory subjects (including a language test), in front of a jury.
CRFPA training
You then continue your training for 18 months in a CRFPA. The courses provided prepare for obtaining the certificate of aptitude for the profession of lawyer (CAPA).
With this diploma in hand, you take an oath, thus committing yourself to respect the ethics of the profession.
What qualifications do you need to become a lawyer?
Motivation and organization
This profession requires a total investment. The days are long and the hours are endless. Great motivation and a solid organization are necessary to juggle files and resist stress.
Editorial fluency
It is essential to have good writing skills to be able to express your arguments.
The lawyer must also constantly update his knowledge by being attentive to new legal texts and developments in case law.
charisma and persuasion
Your talent as a speaker and your capacity for persuasion will be appreciated during the pleadings.
Content updated on 07/09/2012
Our tips:
The CRFPA entrance exam can be prepared in one year at an Institute of Judicial Studies (IEJ).
