Characteristics of The Legal Profession

Individuals who complete their high school education are eligible to take the university entrance examination. Students who pass the university entrance examination must choose law faculties to become lawyers. Individuals who successfully complete law school, if they choose to pursue a career in law, are required to complete a one-year statutory internship. Six months of this internship are completed at the courthouse, and the other six months are spent working alongside a practicing lawyer. Legal professionals who complete the one-year internship can practice law after obtaining their license to practice law. Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in legal professionals pursuing postgraduate programs. The primary reason for this, as mentioned above, is the rapid change in technology and living conditions. Legal professionals who wish to adapt to this change must constantly read, follow developments, and update themselves. In other words, merely studying law and completing an internship is no longer considered sufficient to be a good lawyer.

In its dictionary definition, the legal profession involves guiding individuals on matters related to rights, law, and legislation, and defending the rights of others before judicial bodies. The ancient origins of the legal profession have led to the evolution and development of lawyers' activities over time. Initially, lawyers defended criminals and those subjected to defamation; subsequently, they began providing consultancy to all segments of society. Thus, today, lawyers can resolve all kinds of disputes in light of laws and evolving theories, and provide consultancy to their clients within the framework of legal regulations. To reduce the workload in the judiciary, lawyers can also act as arbitrators and mediators.

Numerous disputes arise in daily life. The resolution of these matters varies just as much. There is no limitation on the types of cases lawyers can handle. However, it would be healthier for both the lawyer and the client if lawyers handle cases and legal matters according to their areas of specialization. According to statistics, divorce lawyers, criminal defense lawyers, and enforcement lawyers are the most frequently sought after in Turkey. However, the legal profession is not limited to these areas. Being a legal professional requires coordinated work among different disciplines. In other words, you might take on a divorce case, only to find yourself handling enforcement proceedings.

In recent years, developing technology and living standards have also permeated the field of law. One of the most prominent developments has been in the field of commercial law. E-commerce law, encompassing many different disciplines, has almost become a distinct field. Recently, corporate firms have started seeking lawyers specializing in e-commerce law, financial technology law, and IT law. In summary, there are no limitations on the areas of practice for lawyers. Developing technology and changing societal structures always give rise to different fields and different problems.

How Does a Divorce Lawyer Work?

Divorce lawyers, who provide professional support to couples deciding to divorce, work to ensure their clients start a new life in the most appropriate way during this challenging process. They examine the events experienced by the divorcing couple during their marriage almost like an observer. A Divorce Lawyer assists their client in matters such as divorce, child custody, division of assets, and alimony. Couples can file for divorce either as a contested or uncontested case by mutual agreement. The lawyer must act according to the grounds for divorce and the couples' requests.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

A Criminal Defense Lawyer typically deals with issues concerning individuals' most fundamental freedoms. In addition, they act almost like a sociologist in sensitive issues referred to as the 'nerve endings' of society. In practice, a Criminal Defense Lawyer is also referred to as a defense counsel. A Criminal Defense Lawyer does not testify on behalf of the person they are defending. The lawyer can present evidence, raise objections, and ask questions in favor of their client, representing the person they are defending. A Criminal Defense Lawyer can defend more than one person in a case. However, if there are conflicting interests among these individuals, they must choose between them.

What Does an Employment Law Attorney Do?

The resolution of all kinds of issues arising from employment law between an employee and an employer is possible with an employment law attorney. An Employment Law Attorney must possess the qualifications to guide both the employee and the employer. In practice, employment law cases are among the most frequently observed cases involving legal representation. Therefore, an Employment Law Attorney must constantly update themselves, follow case law and legislative changes, and possess strong advocacy skills.

What Does a Work Accident Lawyer Do?

Work Accident Lawyers are highly competent attorneys regarding workers' rights. Work accidents frequently occur in the ordinary course of life. A Work Accident Lawyer must also keep well-informed of current events and possess the knowledge to guide the worker in the most appropriate manner.

What is an Enforcement Lawyer?

An Enforcement Lawyer, at the creditor's request, in cases where the debtor fails to pay their debt, identifies the debtor's assets under the Enforcement and Bankruptcy Law and works to ensure the collection of the debt. The lawyer should first endeavor to have the debtor pay their debt through an amicable settlement. If the claim cannot be collected through an amicable settlement, the Enforcement Lawyer initiates enforcement proceedings through the enforcement office. Furthermore, an Enforcement Lawyer objects to the payment order or files a lawsuit for the annulment of the objection. An Enforcement Lawyer must possess strong persuasive skills. They must act with a patient, organized, and meticulous work discipline.

How to Obtain a Lawyer from the Bar Association?

Citizens who have suffered a loss of rights and wish to seek justice before the judiciary but have limited financial means can request a free lawyer from the bar association under legal aid. However, this legal aid is limited to enforcement proceedings and civil lawsuits. Lawyers working under legal aid are paid by the bar association. This fee is determined according to the minimum fee schedule. This fee is quite low compared to market conditions. However, lawyers who serve as legal aid attorneys work on a voluntary basis.

What Should a Lawyer Who Wants to Open a Law Firm Do?

A lawyer who wishes to open their own firm must have completed their legal internship and obtained their license to practice law from the bar association to which they are affiliated. After determining the location where they wish to open their law firm, an agreement should be made with a reliable accountant. The lawyer will provide a power of attorney to the accountant at a notary public, and a signature declaration will also be prepared at the notary public. Subsequently, these documents, along with the lease agreement (or title deed if your office is not rented) and identification, will be provided to the accountant. The accountant will then handle the subsequent procedures on your behalf. If your workplace is rented, you are obliged to pay a withholding tax of 25% of the rent amount each month. After these aforementioned procedures, your firm will be ready to commence operations.

A lawyer performs a public duty. Indeed, lawyers, as the voice of rights holders, are individuals who contribute to the order of societal structure. All information regarding the legal profession and lawyer salaries

Av. Mehmet Yücesoy

İzmir Attorney & Legal Consultancy