What do Lawyers Actually Do? Roles, Responsibilities and Remuneration

“God works wonders now and then; behold a lawyer, an honest man.” — Benjamin Franklin

It is often said that law is not merely a profession but a vocation. To be a lawyer is not just to argue in courtrooms or draft lengthy contracts, but to uphold justice, challenge power, protect the innocent, and offer redress to the wronged. As a budding lawyer, I have come to understand the profound role lawyers play in society not just as professionals, but as pillars of a just democratic order.

In India, the legal profession is governed primarily by the Advocates Act, 1961, a comprehensive legislation that defines and regulates the legal fraternity. From eligibility and enrolment to ethics and discipline, the Act outlines the dos and don’ts of being a legal practitioner.

Lawyer vs Advocate: The Basics

The terms ‘lawyer’ and ‘advocate’ are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction. A lawyer is anyone who has obtained a law degree (LL.B.), but may or may not be practising law in a court of law. On the other hand, an Advocate is someone who, after obtaining the law degree, has enrolled with a State Bar Council under the Advocates Act and is authorized to appear in court and plead on behalf of clients.

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In simpler terms, all advocates are lawyers, but not all lawyers are advocates.

Law is a Noble Profession

Law is one of the oldest and most respected professions in the world. A lawyer is expected to be more than a service provider; they are expected to be upholders of justice, democracy, and constitutional values. The dignity of the profession stems not from privilege, but from responsibility. The Advocates Act, 1961 mandates that every advocate must uphold the rule of law, act with integrity, and serve society with dedication.

What Do Lawyers Actually Do?

The work of a lawyer extends far beyond dramatic courtroom battles and high-stake corporate deals. The profession encompasses a wide spectrum of roles, including but not limited to:

1. Legal Representation

This is the most well-known role. Advocates represent clients in court, present legal arguments, and assist in dispute resolution. They argue both civil and criminal matters before subordinate courts, High Courts, and the Supreme Court of India.

2. Legal Advisory and Consultation

Lawyers advise individuals, corporations, NGOs, and governments on legal rights and obligations. They interpret statutes, assess risks, and provide preventive legal advice to avoid litigation.

3. Drafting and Documentation

From wills and contracts to deeds and affidavits, lawyers are involved in the meticulous process of drafting legally sound documents. In the digital age, this includes compliance documents, privacy policies, and licensing agreements.

4. Corporate Law and Compliance

Corporate lawyers ensure that companies adhere to legal norms in governance, employment, taxation, and securities law. They assist in mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory filings.

5. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Many lawyers today work as arbitrators, mediators, or conciliators to resolve disputes outside the courtroom. ADR is gaining traction for being time- and cost-efficient.

6. Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and Pro Bono Work

Many lawyers take up public interest matters, challenging laws or practices that harm citizens' rights. They often do this without fees, upholding the spirit of service to society.

7. Legal Research and Policy Work

Lawyers are often involved in policy analysis and legal research, particularly those working with think tanks, legislative bodies, or academic institutions.

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Lawyers as Lawmakers

Lawyers have historically played a pivotal role in shaping legislation. In India, legal professionals have made their mark not just in courtrooms, but also in Parliament. From the framing of the Constitution to modern-day law-making, legal minds have brought rigour and constitutional reasoning into the legislative process.

Notably, many Members of Parliament and ministers, including past Prime Ministers like Jawaharlal Nehru and P V Narasimha Rao , began their careers as lawyers. Their grounding in legal principles helped them navigate governance, rights, and policy.

Lawyers in the Freedom Movement

A fascinating but often overlooked fact is that a majority of India’s freedom fighters were lawyers. Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, B.R. Ambedkar, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Motilal Nehru were all trained in law. Their legal acumen was instrumental in questioning colonial policies, defending political prisoners, and articulating the vision of an independent India.

The courtroom often served as an extension of the freedom struggle, and lawyers used their skills to dismantle colonial legal doctrines and promote civil liberties.

The Advocates Act, 1961: The Backbone of the Profession

The Advocates Act, 1961 provides the statutory foundation for the legal profession in India. Here are some of its key features:

• Registration of Advocates: Law graduates must clear the All India Bar Examination and enrol with a State Bar Council to practice law.
• Bar Councils: The Act establishes the Bar Council of India (BCI) and State Bar Councils to regulate legal practice and education.
• Legal Education: The BCI approves law colleges and lays down curriculum standards.
• Professional Conduct: Advocates must adhere to ethical codes. Misconduct can attract suspension or disbarment.
• Disciplinary Powers: State Bar Councils have disciplinary committees that handle complaints against advocates.

What Do Lawyers Earn in India?

Lawyers' earnings can vary wildly based on location, experience, specialisation, and whether they are in independent practice or corporate jobs.

• Fresh graduates may start with internships or junior roles offering stipends ranging from Rs.5,000 to Rs.20,000 per month.
• Litigation associates in metro cities may earn between Rs.20,000 to Rs.50,000 per month in their early years.
• Corporate lawyers at top-tier firms (Tier 1) can command salaries of Rs.10 to Rs.25 lakh per annum at entry level.
• Independent litigators, over time, can build lucrative practices, especially in niche areas like constitutional law, tax law, or intellectual property.
• In-house legal counsels in companies typically earn between Rs.6 lakh to Rs.30 lakh per annum, depending on seniority.

Senior Advocates Like Harish Salve and Kapil Sibal reportedly charge Rs.30 Lakhs to 50 Lakhs for a single appearance!!

While the early years can be financially challenging, the long-term earning potential for competent and reputed lawyers is substantial.

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Conclusion

A lawyer’s path is rarely paved with ease. It begins with uncertainty, intense competition, and long hours of preparation. Yet, history reminds us that every great jurist was once a young, struggling lawyer standing in dimly lit courtrooms, flipping through law books, and searching for their first brief. It is these very struggles that sharpen their minds and deepen their understanding of justice.

As they grow through experience, lawyers don’t just interpret the law, they shape it. They become defenders of liberty, guardians of rights, and advisors to institutions that govern our lives. Their words can protect a single citizen or reshape an entire system. With every case, they build not just a career, but a legacy of service.

In a society constantly evolving and facing new challenges, the role of a lawyer is more vital than ever. For those who persist through the initial trials, the legal profession offers more than success; it offers the rare chance to deliver meaningful justice to a great many people. And that, perhaps, is the most powerful impact one can have.

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