What does a compensation lawyer do?
Compensation lawyers typically represent clients that seek some time of compensation from another individual or organization. They work with a variety of cases, but typically represent employees taking legal action against current or previous employers. The cases often involve discrimination, unfair dismissal, and injuries or illness suffered on the job. Some compensation lawyers deal with wrongful death cases. Compensation lawyers obtain all the necessary information and details related to the case and help their clients receive adequate compensation. They often determine negligence, work environment hazards, and unlawful employment practices.
What kind of training does a compensation lawyer need?
Compensation lawyers must have a bachelor degree and law degree. To be admitted into law school, applicants must receive a satisfactory score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Law school provides intensive classroom instruction. Prospective compensation lawyers typically complete courses in worker’s compensation, labor and employment law, compensation law, law ethics, and legal writing. Many law schools require students to complete internships before graduation. Many aspiring compensation lawyers obtain part-time positions or pursue volunteer opportunities in law firms that focus on compensation to gain practical experience and establish valuable contacts. All states require compensation lawyers to pass the bar examination and become licensed. Compensation lawyers must complete regular legal continuing education to maintain their licenses, keep their skills up to date, and stay abreast with advancements and changes in the compensation field.
What are the prospects for a career as a compensation lawyer?
Employment of all lawyers, including compensation lawyers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all professions, increasing 13% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in compensation cases will drive job growth for compensation lawyers.
Job prospects should be good with keen competition. Compensation lawyers with excellent academic records and extensive experience will have the best job prospects.
How much do compensation lawyers make?
As of January 2010, the average annual salary for compensation lawyers is $76,000; average annual compensation lawyer salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a compensation lawyer is a great choice for people with a strong interest in compensation law and representing a variety of clients. Compensation lawyers must have a solid understanding of the procedures and practices of compensation law and the ability to provide representation in many different cases. Patience, detail orientation, perseverance, analytical thinking, and good problem solving skills are necessary characteristics. Compensation lawyers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills because they work with a variety of clients, other professionals, and the public. They must be able to make effective decisions under stress and pressure.
