Role overview
A lawyer advises clients on legal matters, drafts and reviews documents, and represents clients in negotiations or court. In India they typically research law and precedent, draft contracts and pleadings, advise on rights and compliance, and argue cases or close deals — protecting clients' legal interests across litigation, corporate, criminal, family or other specialisations with rigour and discretion.
A lawyer usually has around 0–12 yrs of experience and earns typically ₹3L–₹20L/yr (varies widely) in India. The day-to-day blends Legal research, Contract drafting, Litigation and more — this page gives you a ready-to-use lawyer job description template you can copy, plus the exact skills and salary employers expect.
Key responsibilities
A lawyer is typically responsible for:
- Advise clients on legal rights, obligations and risks
- Research case law, statutes and precedents
- Draft and review contracts, agreements and legal documents
- Prepare pleadings, notices and case filings
- Represent clients in negotiations, mediation or court
- Ensure clients' compliance with applicable laws and regulations
- Manage case strategy, deadlines and documentation
- Maintain client confidentiality and uphold legal ethics
Requirements & qualifications
To succeed as a lawyer, candidates usually need:
- A law degree (LLB) and enrolment with a State Bar Council
- Strong legal research, drafting and analytical skills
- Knowledge of relevant areas of law and procedure
- Excellent communication, negotiation and advocacy
- Attention to detail, integrity and discretion
Lawyer skills
The most in-demand lawyer skills on listings today:
Not sure which of these you're missing? A free OnJob profile runs your CV against every live lawyer job and shows the exact skill gaps standing between you and a 100% match.
Typical salary & experience
Typical salary (India)
typically ₹3L–₹20L/yr (varies widely)
Experience range
0–12 yrs
These are typical ranges and vary by city, company and skills. For live, role-specific pay data, see the OnJob salary guide.
Lawyer job description — FAQs
What does a lawyer do?
A lawyer advises clients on legal matters, researches law, drafts and reviews documents like contracts and pleadings, ensures compliance, and represents clients in negotiations or court. They protect clients' legal interests across their area of specialisation.
What qualifications do you need to become a lawyer in India?
You need an LLB law degree (three-year after graduation or five-year integrated) and must enrol with a State Bar Council and clear the All India Bar Examination to practise as an advocate.
What areas of law can a lawyer specialise in?
Common specialisations include corporate and commercial law, litigation, criminal law, family law, intellectual property, tax, real estate and labour law. Specialisation strongly influences a lawyer's work and earnings.
How much does a lawyer earn in India?
Earnings vary enormously: junior advocates may earn ₹3L–₹6L per year, corporate lawyers and those at firms ₹8L–₹20L+, and top litigators and partners far more. Check our salary guide for current ranges.