Career Series: Exploring Law
Review by Daniel Kim
Illustration by Sophia Ye
Have you watched crime movies and get thrilled by how clever attorneys are at cross-examination? If that is what you think a lawyer does, then perhaps you should read up a little before considering law as a possible career choice. Here are four books to start your exploration.
by Vibeke Norgaard Martin with Matthew Frederick
‘101 Things I Learned in Law School’ includes the experiences, life lessons, and learnings of the most prominent lawyers within the American Law field. It is a relevant read for those looking for a starting point to explore the complex questions of US law, and more importantly, how to think like a lawyer.
In addition to the text, Martin has created a book full of visuals to help aid in the study of law, staying true to the timeless saying “a picture is worth a thousand words”. The visualization of these ideas and terms will help anyone interested in pursuing a career involving law, by introducing the US judiciary system.
The book examines and questions areas that the inexperienced reader may not have yet considered. Does law school teach laws? When is it appropriate for a lawyer to ask questions in court? How long can a lawyer legally charge their client for? Martin also explores more complex ideas such as the difference between honesty and truthfulness.
Note: This book is for people intending to study law in the US, so some facts may not be relevant to those following a law career in other places around the world. However, it still has many notable tips that would be useful for law students, graduates, professionals, or anyone else fascinated by law, regardless of country.
by Catherine Barnard, Janet O’Sullivan and Graham Virgo
‘What about law? Studying law at university’ gives a realistic insight into the practicalities of the legal world. It breaks down and discusses purposeful questions such as: Why do we punish crimes? How do we decide what punishment is fit for their actions? How do we decide what is criminal, and what is not?
Many young people all over the world consider studying law, or pursuing a career in law, however, often have little idea of what the study of law involves and how universities teach law. This book will help aid the readers decision as to whether law is right career path as well as what to expect in a legal career. It exposes the reader to thought-provoking cases, inspiring critical thinking and reasoning.
People often see law as dry and dull, however, this book shows how the study of law and a law career can be exciting, intellectually stimulating, challenging and relevant to other professions. For any prospective law students, or anyone interested in what law involves, this book will give you a ‘taster’ of the legal world.
by Tom Bingham
‘The Rule of Law’ is a phrase frequently heard in day to day life, and this book discusses what it means. This award-winning book was written by a greatly respected judge and draws upon the lessons he learnt in his expansive career.
While this book was written by a former judge, it is by no means solely for lawyers or prospective law students. This is for anyone who has heard the phrase “rule of law” and isn’t quite sure as to what it means. Is it a good thing, bad thing, is it even important? All these questions that all people will surely have are clearly addressed in this book in a clear, concise and manageable way.
The lessons you will surely take away from this book will help you in everyday life, able to question the status quo and be a proactive thinker and challenge the norms of society today.
by Jasper Kim
Is a career involving law for you? Often, people decide on a career in law but have no idea what a typical day might look like. This book will give you a “sneak peek” into the lives of some, but not all, of the possible career fields after law school, and how a span of just 24 hours can lead to dramatic changes.
It covers the lives of people in traditional careers, such as prosecutors, criminal defense attorneys, finance and banking lawyers, but also those pursuing a non-traditional career in law, including musicians, sports broadcasters and politicians. This book is highly recommended for anyone that has a slight interest in law, and what your life could possibly look like after school.
This book helps you explore the different career pathways that law school may lead to and exposes you to a different career that many may not be aware of. It will also give you a greater understanding and appreciation for those practicing law or those who use an element of it for the betterment of society.
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