Public defenders for criminal defendants usually have very high caseloads.
One of the main disadvantages to the practice of law is the public's general disdain for lawyers. Ftor centuries his sentiment existed and is perpetuated by numerous, vicious lawyer jokes and theatrical works, such as Shakespeare's play, "Henry VI," which contains the statement "let's kill all the lawyers." In reality, many attorneys devote much of their time to public interest causes and earn relatively low salaries.
Earnings
Many attorneys work for underprivileged clients. While this can be personally rewarding, these clients are usually unable to pay well. Public defenders are often attorneys in private practice who supplement their income by contracting with local courts to provide criminal representation at substantially reduced fees. As a result, many attorneys choose to practice in specialized areas of law, which often results in higher income. According to Cornell University, about 22 percent of attorneys earn annual salaries of $40,000 or less, at the time of publication.
Expenses
Many attorneys incurred large debts arising from law school tuition, and other costs of acquiring a law degree. Attorneys also incurred debt associated with taking and passing their state's bar examination, as well as having to pay for mandatory continuing education courses. Additionally, state bar membership fees can be expensive. Attorneys who start their own private law practice can incur high expenses for staff salaries, office leases and advertising. Often, attorneys starting a private practice have a difficult time getting clients in the first few years.
Work Hours and Conditions
The typical attorney often works long hours and may need to work on weekends, especially those who work for large firms. They may have little choice in the matter since competition can be stiff at law firms where associates vie for firm partnerships. The nature of the job requires the ability to engage in painstaking research and perform repetitive administrative duties. Many attorneys do not enjoy representing clients in court trials due to the high degree of stress associated with preparing for and conducting trials. As a result, many attorneys suffer burn-out and leave the practice of law.
Gender and Racial Discrimination
Gender and racial discrimination exists in the legal profession as evidenced by the disproportionate salaries that females and minorities earn when compared with salaries of white males. Females and minorities may encounter "glass ceilings," which prevents them from advancing in their careers due to their gender or race.
Low Morale and Disillusionment with the Legal System
In a study conducted by the RAND corporation involving California attorneys, the results indicated that about half of all lawyers would not have chosen to become lawyers if they had it to do over again. A survey conducted by "California Lawyer" magazine found that the rate was actually higher. In that survey, 70 percent of California lawyers reported that they would like to enter a different profession.
A Florida survey of lawyers concluded that one-third feel depressed at least once per week while a North Carolina university study revealed that 11 percent of North Carolina lawyers considered committing suicide at least once per month.
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