How does being a lawyer actually help in making the jump to politics? -

Apart from speaking skills, what else does being an attorney offer for aspiring politicians? Would a government prosecutor/public defender or private attorney gain more skills/be more suited for public office?

Well, we are a nation of laws. So, knowledge of and an ability to frame legislation, so that it passes constitutional muster would be beneficial. Government prosecutor, consider R. Juliani(sp) career. Tough on crime bandwagon, contribution$, networking prospects. Public defender would be seen as quot;soft on crimequot;, political liability. Enter politics and lose your soul, POTUS2B, look before you leap.