Fame

Although most trial attorneys don't achieve any level of national fame, many are known throughout their profession for their accomplishments. If, however, you're either a prosecutor or defense attorney on a high profile or celebrity case, you'll likely achieve a significant amount of fame. Or at least notoriety. 

Most recently, we all watched the antics of Drew Peterson's defense team, comprised of Joseph Lopez, Steve Greenberg, and everyone's favorite mafia lawyer, Joel Brodsky. And then there's Mark Geragos, who's represented the likes of Michael Jackson, Winona Ryder, Chris Brown, and Gary Condit.

And don't forget about Shawn Holley Chapman. She's currently Lindsay Lohan's attorney, but has also defended Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, and the Kardashian sisters (whose father, interestingly, was part of the O.J. Simpson defense team).

And then there are attorneys like our favorite Dancing Star Nancy Grace (yep, she's a former Special Prosecutor) and Gloria Allred. You practically can't turn on your television without seeing one of their mugs. So, while fame isn't a likely consequence of being a trial attorney, there are certainly some major exceptions.