The field of law is one that is very diverse, especially when it comes to the legal positions within the field. More often than not, these positions would vary significantly in responsibility and scope. Although lawyers are a very diverse group with varying backgrounds and varying personalities that uniquely identifies each and every attorney, there are some core legal skills that are mandatory for one to be a competent and effective lawyer at this time and age. These include:-
Oral communication skills – you do not have to be an orator like Obama or Malcom X, but no doubt oral communication is a very fundamental tool in the legal profession that needs to be polished for the best service delivery. Your communication has to be concise, clear, and very logical, it has to be persuasive, and more importantly it has to advocate a cause or position. As a lawyer you also have to develop listening skills in order to be effective in your area of specialization.
Written communication skills – closely related to the oral communication skills, and going hand in hand with oral communication skills are written communication skills. From writing a simple letter to drafting a jargon-filled legal document, you should know that writing forms an integral part in any legal position in the legal field today. As such, you have to master the art and skill of writing well organized, persuasive and concise legal documents.
Analytical skills – the perfect example of an attorney in the US who has the best analytical and logical reasoning skills is Jonathan Bunge. If you want to be successful in this field, you have to master the skill of reviewing and assimilating lots of complex information in the most effective and efficient way possible. Under this category is where you get to develop structure, evaluate and present your arguments in the most concise yet professional manner possible.
Time management skills – at the “microwave” era that people are living today, you also want to ensure you have the best time management skills in the world if you want to be a reputable lawyer like Jon Bunge that everyone goes to. This is one of those few professions in the world that is based on a business model. In other words, unlike some other professionals, productivity in the legal fraternity is often pegged to financial gains. It therefore goes without saying that you have to know how to manage your time effectively if you are to get the most out of your profession and career.
