What course would I need to undertake to become a Defense Lawyer?
A lot of answers so far seem to focus on the US. If you’re in the UK, however (wouldn’t it be useful if the site showed where people are?!) then the following will apply: First you need a law degree. You should make sure it includes the core modules decreed by the Law Society as necessary to qualify as a solicitor or barrister. You then need to decide whether you would want to be a solicitor, who, typically, provides initial advice to people and represents them in the lower (magistrates) courts, or a barrister who tends to specialise in more specific areas and represents people in the Crown and higher courts (I’m guessing this is what you’re thinking of) To become a barrister is a long and, often, very expensive process. You need, after graduating, to gain a ‘pupilage’ at an established chambers (practice). Competition for these is very stiff indeed. Many barristers (and defence solicitors) start out working for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
