Communication Is Important For Philadelphia Lawyers
Robert C. Keller is senior partner at Keller, Lisgar & Williams, LLP, with offices in Philadelphia County, Delaware County, and Bucks County. Keller attended Temple University Beasley School of Law in Philadelphia, PA and received his Juris Doctorate in 1979. He completed his undergraduate work at Temple University. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English and graduated in 1976
What sort of education is needed to secure a good job in your field?
"In order to become an attorney, a person is required to secure a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited university. They then must complete law school (typically a three-year program) and receive a Juris doctorate degree. Finally, the person must pass a two-day bar examination."
What is the most challenging aspect of being in your field?
"Practicing law, in general, is quite challenging. It is important to keep the lines of communication open with your clients. Additionally, a lawyer should be courteous to fellow lawyers in the community and to be respectful of the Court. Your reputation is everything so it along with your law license must be protected at all costs."
After graduation, how hard was it to transition to the actual working world?
"I was fortunate to have secured an internship while attending law school which led to being hired as an associate at the firm upon becoming an attorney. The lawyer I worked with helped me to become an Assistant District Attorney where I moved up the ranks during my eight years of service. The challenge arose after marrying and having children and the financial demands obligated me to seek a more financially rewarding position in private practice."
What advice would you give someone who is pursuing a career in this field?
"I was an English major in college which helped with my writing skills and the ability to interpret that which I was reading and to be able to articulate its meaning. It is also suggested that logic and reasoning classes will be helpful in preparing for the bar exam and the law profession generally. For those students interested in running their own practice, it is suggested that taking business classes would be helpful. It is also important for all aspiring attorneys that they perfect their computer skills and become proficient in applicable software programs."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
