If your dream is to work as a lawyer, know that there's an important path to follow before entering this profession full of opportunities. In today's post, we'll explain... What does it take to be a lawyer?. Keep reading and find out!
In Brazil, there is a law that regulates the legal profession, the Law No. 8.906. According to this document, “The practice of law in Brazilian territory and the title of lawyer are exclusive to those registered with the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB).”.
In other words, to practice law in Brazil, you must be duly registered with the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB), in addition to, of course, obtaining a law degree. Check out the step-by-step guide to entering this promising profession!
Going to law school
The first step in a lawyer's career is entering law school. This undergraduate course includes subjects such as Political Science, Civil Law, Criminal Law, Administrative Law, Philosophy and Ethics, Forensic Psychology, and Arbitration. These and other subjects provide the necessary knowledge to solve the complex issues of the legal world.
A law degree typically lasts 10 semesters and is a bachelor's degree. The course is considered one of the most traditional and competitive in the country and, despite the high competition, offers excellent career opportunities.
To choose the ideal educational institution, research the curriculum, professors, and infrastructure of the colleges. Also analyze the... note from the Ministry of Education that the course received. This way, you will have more assurance about the quality and legality of the degree.
Do an internship
During college, you can do an internship and experience the day-to-day life of the profession, shadowing experienced professionals and learning in practice. This experience is very enriching and can open up a wide range of opportunities after graduation.
To secure a good law internship, you need to be dedicated to your studies, be proactive, write well, and demonstrate an interest in the field. Participating in short courses and extracurricular activities is also an excellent tip for those who want to stand out.
In law school, an internship is mandatory; that is, to obtain your degree, you will need to complete the internship hours determined by the course coordinator.
Passing the OAB Exam
As we mentioned, in addition to a law degree, you need to be registered with the OAB, the Brazilian Bar Association. Brazilian Bar Association. Registration with the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB) is contingent upon passing an exam, known as the Bar Exam. Only law graduates or students in their final year of law school can take this exam, which aims to assess the candidate's legal knowledge.
What is the OAB exam like?
The Brazilian Bar Exam is conducted in two stages, which take place on different days. The first stage consists of an objective test with 80 multiple-choice questions.
Candidates who advance to the second phase of the exam take a practical-professional test, which consists of answering four essay questions, in addition to presenting a professional piece of work.
It's important to remember that, at the time of registration, candidates must choose a specific subject to be assessed in the second phase of the exam. The options are:
- Constitutional Law;
- Administrative Law;
- Civil Law;
- Criminal Law;
- Business Law;
- Labor Law;
- Tax Law.
Unfortunately, the Bar Exam has a high failure rate. According to data released by the OAB (Brazilian Bar Association), only 611 of the participants passed in the last ten years. The study also showed that only 401 of the candidates passed on their first attempt.
Therefore, preparing for the OAB exam is very important. Stay up-to-date, create a study schedule, and make the most of law school, both in regular classes and extracurricular activities.
What does it take to become a judge and a public prosecutor?
If your goal is to become a judge, you will need to have, at a minimum, three full years of registration with the OAB (Brazilian Bar Association), In addition to passing the public examination, the same applies to those aspiring to the position of public prosecutor.
Now that you know what it takes to be a lawyer, how about learning more about the ESEG Law course, which has been authorized with... top marks from the MEC (Brazilian Ministry of Education)? Click here to see all the information about ESEG Law.
After completing a law degree, it is necessary to pass the OAB exam. Only with this approval and registration with the Brazilian Bar Association is it possible to practice law.
Yes. A lawyer can work as an employee in companies or law firms, with a formal employment contract, as long as the role is compatible with the practice of law.
The career offers different paths. Among the most common are independent legal practice, working in law firms or companies as a contracted lawyer, and a public career through competitive examination.
After graduating and passing the Bar Exam, many professionals begin their careers in law firms to gain experience. Others choose to open their own office or provide services independently.
