An attorney general is a high-ranking legal adviser to a state or national government. In order to become an attorney general, it is important to get a sufficient and well-rounded education, establish a strong reputation as a licensed attorney, and make connections within the political world. Depending on the specific position, the final step needed to become an attorney general is an appointment from the government, or election by the public.
Building a strong, well-rounded educational background is the starting point for any person who wishes to become an attorney general. For undergraduate studies, it may help to choose a major that involves the study of law, the criminal justice system, writing and analytical skills, philosophy, or government. Toward the end of college, students may want to begin applying to law schools and preparing for law school examinations.
Once in law school, a student must work very hard to stand out among intelligent and dedicated colleagues. Internships, volunteer work, and participation in law-related extracurricular activities can all help a student make contacts and create an outstanding scholastic reputation. Internships or summer jobs with public defender offices can be an excellent way to gain experience with government-related law subjects. Near the end of law school, a student will need to devote many hours to preparing for licensing examinations.
After a student becomes a licensed attorney, he or she must tailor career choices to fit the profile of an attorney general. Working as a public defender or with a local government legal department is a good way to start down the path to become an attorney general. As a licensed practitioner, a lawyer must begin to develop a reputation for honesty, integrity, and authority. In some regions, a judge or military lawyer can also become an attorney general. It may take more than a decade after law school to even become a serious candidate for attorney general.
In addition to building a strong professional reputation, lawyers must also approach their personal behavior with an eye toward career goals. Since an attorney general is a political figure, aspiring lawyers must plan to incorporate integrity into their lifestyle; any brushes with the law or scandals can severely damage a person's chances of becoming a government lawyer. A person who wishes to become an attorney general must also take every opportunity to make contacts within the political world, especially with up-and-coming politicians. While attorneys general must be competent, it is also important to know well-connected political players to be considered for government jobs.
Exactly how a person can become an attorney general depends on the laws of the region. In the United States, the US attorney general is appointed by the President, while state attorneys general may be either elected by the populace or appointed by state legislators and governors. Most other nations also allow heads of state or the legislature to appoint the attorney general.
