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.
Industry Realities, Adaptability, Problem-Solving, Workplace Challenges, Candid Advice
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
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
Video Highlights
1. Trials are volatile and unpredictable: Expect the unexpected in court due to uncontrollable variables like court schedules, jury behavior, and witness testimonies.
2. Thinking on your feet is crucial: Prosecutors must be adaptable and quick-thinking as trials rarely go according to plan.
3. Preparation is key but can't guarantee outcomes: While preparation is essential, be aware that the level of volatility in trials can exceed expectations.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
What have I learned? I would say that there will be days where things are just very volatile. When it comes to trial specifically, you go into many trials expecting them to play out a specific way because that's what you've planned for.
But there are so many variables you can't control. You can't control when court starts. You can pick your jury, but at the end of the day, you're not inside their heads.
You don't know who they are other than what they've shared. You don't know how some witnesses will testify, or whether your witnesses will testify as you intend them to. I anticipated a level of things being a bit volatile, but it's been more volatile at times than I expected.
I've been ready for it; it's definitely something I'm prepared for. But going into this profession, specifically being a prosecutor, you have to be able to think on your feet. We can't stress that enough.
So, one thing I stress early on to future prosecutors is to be willing and ready to think on your feet. A lot of times, things don't go according to plan.
Advizer Personal Links