I suppose that the general idea about the legal profession is not any different here in Denmark, or anywhere else in Europe. Obviously, there are differences between the profession in the U.S. and in Denmark.
But generally, most ordinary people have their knowledge of lawyers from the media. And this portrayal is obviously very unrealistic. Ironically, many Danes (or Europeans in general, I suppose) have the basic idea of attorneys from American television shows.
Another thing I also considered was that when you begin the law study, then everyone suddenly sees you as the lawyer of the family. During the full 2 semesters I have been bombarded with legal questions.
At first it makes you feel great, but after a while it becomes annoying. And the way people suddenly change their attitude towards you is also very worrying.
As you perfectly stated, the majority of lawyers are not wealthy, and the "romantic" view on the work of a lawyer does not stand (in my opinion).
E.C., when do you have to apply for the M.A. program? And are you more certain which program you wish to follow?