Most Asked Questions about Law

Do I need to be Extroverted?

Short answer: Nope! Long answer: Definitely not.

If you imagine all lawyers as chatty, larger-than-life courtroom superstars, it’s time to burst that bubble. While being outgoing can help in certain areas like litigation or public speaking, the truth is that introverts thrive in law just as much as extroverts.

For one, a lot of legal work happens behind the scenes - researching case law, drafting airtight contracts, and preparing winning arguments. These tasks require quiet focus and attention to detail, making them perfect for introverts who prefer deep work over small talk. Plus, introverts are often better listeners, which is an invaluable skill when working with clients or colleagues.

So, whether you’re the life of the party or prefer curling up with a book, rest assured there’s a niche in the legal world for you. Lawyers come in all personality types, and that’s what makes the profession so dynamic.

Is It Really That Competitive?

Yes, but it’s not The Hunger Games.

Law school does have a reputation for being fiercely competitive. After all, your classmates are likely to be ambitious, hardworking and aiming for the same internships or accolades as you. However, don’t mistake this for an all-out battle royale where people sabotage each other’s notes or hide books in the library (though, let’s be honest, there might be one or two of those).

In reality, much of the competition is internal. The pressure to excel comes from wanting to prove to yourself—and maybe your parents—that you can handle the workload and emerge victorious. But here’s the secret: law school is a marathon, not a sprint. Collaboration, teamwork and building friendships are just as important as acing that one mock trial.

Think of it this way: the legal field is vast, with enough opportunities to go around. Your success doesn’t mean someone else’s failure, and vice versa. Support your peers, and you’ll find law school less cutthroat and more like a shared adventure (with slightly terrifying deadlines).

Can I Still Be a Lawyer If I Choose Not to Go to Court?

Absolutely. In fact, there’s a whole world of law where courtrooms are as rare as unicorns.

Not every lawyer spends their days arguing cases in front of a judge. If the thought of shouting “Objection!” in a packed courtroom gives you hives, you’re in luck—there are countless other legal paths to explore.

For example, corporate lawyers focus on contracts, mergers and ensuring businesses stay on the right side of the law. Intellectual property lawyers help protect your favorite music, films, and brands. Conveyancers handle property transactions, while tax lawyers navigate the complex maze of fiscal regulations.

Think of it this way: litigation is just one slice of the legal pizza. Whether you prefer negotiation tables, quiet drafting rooms, or brainstorming sessions in a law firm’s boardroom, there’s a role for you.

Do I Need to Speak Exceptionally Well?

Well, it helps—but you don’t need to sound like a TED Talk every time you open your mouth.

Here’s the thing: being a lawyer does involve communication, whether it’s presenting an argument in court, negotiating deals, or advising clients. However, this doesn’t mean you need to have the eloquence of Cicero or the persuasive powers of Elle Woods.

What really matters is clarity. Can you explain complex ideas in simple terms? Can you get your point across effectively? These are skills you can develop over time, even if public speaking isn’t your forte right now.

Remember, great lawyers are made, not born. If you’re nervous about speaking, practice is your best friend. Join a debate club, participate in mock trials or start small by explaining legal concepts to your friends. With time, you’ll build confidence—and who knows, you might even enjoy it!

Do I Have to Read a Lot?

Oh, absolutely. There’s no sugarcoating this one.

Law school is basically a giant reading marathon. From case law to statutes and academic articles, you’ll be swimming in text. But here’s the good news: over time, you’ll learn how to skim, scan, and focus on what really matters.

The key is finding a system that works for you. Some students swear by highlighting, others by summarising cases into bite-sized notes. And yes, you’ll encounter some dry and dense material that feels like a personal attack on your sanity. But you’ll also come across fascinating cases that make you want to read more—stories of justice, intrigue and the occasional bizarre dispute involving goats (true story).

So, yes, law school involves a lot of reading. But once you conquer those stacks of books, you’ll feel like a legal superhero, one who can quote obscure case law like it’s your second language. But hey! At least you don't have to solve for Pi anymore.