What does 'contentious work' refer to in legal practice?

'Contentious work' in legal practice refers specifically to work that involves legal disputes. This type of work is characterized by its adversarial nature, where two or more parties are in conflict, often requiring litigation or other forms of dispute resolution. Lawyers engaged in contentious work might represent clients in court, handle lawsuits, or engage in adversarial proceedings, which necessitate a thorough understanding of legal procedures and the ability to advocate effectively for a client’s interests.

In contrast, administrative services, negotiation of settlements, and contract drafting are generally considered non-contentious. Administrative services pertain to the management of legal affairs rather than legal conflicts. Negotiation of settlements usually aims to resolve disputes amicably without litigation, while contract drafting focuses on creating documents that outline the terms of agreements rather than addressing disputes between parties. Therefore, the distinctive characteristic of contentious work is its direct association with disputes, making it the correct choice.