For many years, criminal defense has been considered an “easy” area of the law to concentrate on, as some believe that the lack of depositions in many states and the high likelihood of guilty pleas making a trial unnecessary result in less overall work than serving as a civil lawyer. However, especially given the stakes involved in criminal trials, serving as a competent criminal defense attorney requires considerable preparation and experience.

The best way to enter the field of criminal defense is to find a job working within the system. Many begin as public defenders, which often involves participation in post-law school educational offerings and the development of a wide support network. Others get their start on the other side of the courtroom, working as a prosecutor. Still others spend time as an informal “clerk” for a criminal defense practice.

Should none of these options be

available, the young lawyer looking to

break into criminal defense can attempt

to start his or her own practice, but it will

require considerably more work. He or

she should be sure to manage

expectations and avoid taking on more

work than can be handled.