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Lance, Deputy District Attorney at Trial Litigation: Advize Career Interview
An interview with a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation reveals a dynamic career path driven by impactful decision-making and a passion for justice.
The journey begins with strategic internships and involvement in criminal justice organizations, culminating in a role that encompasses everything from case review to jury trials.
Daily life is far from monotonous, demanding adaptability and a strong command of the law, but the opportunity to shape outcomes and affect real change makes it worthwhile.
Essential skills include public speaking and case knowledge, alongside respect and professionalism. Though the adversarial nature of criminal law presents challenges, thriving in this field requires independence and a "go-getter" attitude.
Aspiring prosecutors can gain invaluable experience through internships, paving the way for a career where the ability to "think on feet" and believe in one's decisions are paramount.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
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Job Functions
Traits
Lance Cotton
Deputy District Attorney
Trial Litigation
California State University: Long Beach
Chapman University, School of Law
Criminal Justice
Law
Legal
Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
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Career Path of a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation
Before becoming a Deputy District Attorney, experiences in college and law school heavily influenced the career path. These experiences include interning with the Los Angeles Police Department, involvement in criminal justice organizations at Cal State Long Beach which helped narrow focus to "pursuing criminal justice," and interning with prosecutorial agencies during law school that "further cemented desire to become a criminal prosecutor."
Main Responsibilities of a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation
As a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation, responsibilities primarily involve prosecuting criminal offenses, from "reviewing police reports to ensure we have enough evidence to pursue a case" to filing cases and appearing at hearings. Ultimately, responsibilities extend to conducting jury trials when cases do not settle, allowing a jury to decide guilt.
A Day In The Life Of A Deputy District Attorney At Trial Litigation
A deputy district attorney's daily life is highly variable, evolving from a focus on arraignments early in a career—where "defendants show up...[and] decide to plead guilty or not guilty"—to now encompassing negotiations with attorneys, jury trials, court hearings, and even involvement in early investigative stages at police stations. As Lance notes, "no one date is the same," though with increased experience, there is now "a bit more controlled" structure to each day.
Most Important Skills For A Deputy District Attorney In Trial Litigation
For a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation, strong public speaking skills and thorough knowledge of the case are crucial for effective communication and negotiation. However, Lance emphasizes that being respectful and professional, rather than "super cutthroat and adversarial," is essential for success in this career.
Favorite Parts of Being a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation
As a Deputy District Attorney at Trial Litigation, the most enjoyable aspect of the role is being "in the driver's seat of decision making" to ultimately determine what justice looks like on a case-by-case basis, and having a wide array of tools, from diversion to leading the charge on sentencing, to help achieve that. Lance is grateful to be in a position to make these impactful decisions.
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Deputy District Attorney In Trial Litigation
The biggest challenge for this Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation is navigating the inherently adversarial nature of criminal law, where "I can't make everybody happy," as decisions that benefit victims and uphold the prosecution's interests often lead to dissatisfaction from defendants, their lawyers, and those connected to them. Though the professional values doing "the right thing" over being liked, it is still an adjustment to accept that not everyone will be appreciative of the decisions that must be made.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The Criminal Law Industry As A Trial Deputy District Attorney
As a Deputy District Attorney, "being in trial" is what Lance enjoys most about the role, highlighting the opportunity to present cases before a jury. This passion is fueled by the belief that prosecuting cases allows one to make a tangible "impact," changing lives and directly influencing real-life outcomes.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Law Industry, According To A Deputy District Attorney At Trial Litigation
Lance believes that to thrive as a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation, a person needs to be a "go-getter" who is not overly dependent on others, as the most effective prosecutor is ultimately responsible for their own cases and trusted to navigate the process independently. He emphasizes the importance of developing skills to file, negotiate, resolve, and try cases solo, noting that in their agency, "we don't typically second share cases."
What A Deputy District Attorney In Trial Litigation Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Law Industry
As a Deputy District Attorney in Trial Litigation, Lance wishes someone had emphasized the sheer volatility of the job, particularly in trial, where so many uncontrollable variables exist, necessitating the ability to "think on feet" as things often don't go according to plan. While a certain level of unpredictability was anticipated, the reality has proven even more pronounced, highlighting the need for adaptability in this profession.
Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Deputy District Attorneys
Lance highlights internships as a key entry point for both undergraduate and law students, noting that there are "abundant opportunities" available through websites like Indeed and Government Jobs. For law students, especially after their second year, there's even a chance "to appear on the record" after taking evidence, making internships an invaluable experience.
Significant Career Lesson From A Deputy District Attorney In Trial Litigation
As a Deputy District Attorney, one significant lesson learned is to "believe it" - realizing that not everyone involved in a criminal case will be happy with the outcome is crucial in an adversarial system, and trying to please everyone is futile given the nature of the work. For someone who wants everyone to "appreciate and be happy and enjoy what you're doing," this realization is essential.
College Experiences That Helped a Deputy District Attorney Succeed in Trial Litigation
To prepare for a career as a Deputy District Attorney, Lance believes that "just going to school and getting a degree is not enough," and that students should seek extracurricular activities that help separate themselves from other candidates. For Lance, this included involvement in criminal justice organizations, Greek life, mock trial, moot court, student government, and, most importantly, multiple internships with law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies.
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