Kara Sears
Being a lawyer is considered one of the most stressful jobs, with up to 40% of lawyers wanting to leave the profession in the US alone. However, a law degree and the skills obtained as a lawyer can help you get a job in a variety of industries. Lawyers can transition into alternative careers within and outside the legal field, such as corporate consultancy, public relations, teaching, academia, account management, paralegal positions, investigation jobs, and contract management. They can also become mediators, investment bankers, or start their own businesses. Networking is crucial for lawyers seeking career alternatives, and they can seek help from recruiters to find suitable positions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Investigator | Analytical skills, attention to detail |
| Law professor | Analytical skills |
| Risk manager | Attention to detail |
| Paralegal | Knowledge of the law |
| Intellectual property manager | Knowledge of intellectual property law |
| Human resources | Knowledge of employment law |
| Industrial relations | Knowledge of employment law |
| In-house counsel | Knowledge of contract law |
| Legal researcher | Knowledge of the law |
| Investment banker | Competitive, high-pressure |
| Corporate consultant | |
| Public relations | |
| Teacher | |
| Academic | |
| Account manager | |
| Contract manager | |
| Journalist | Interview and investigatory skills |
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What You'll Learn
- Transition into a career in human resources, industrial relations, or organisational development
- Become an investigator, detective, or law professor
- Work in corporate consultancy, public relations, or account management
- Find a job in the alternative disputes area, such as mediation
- Pursue a career in investment banking
Transition into a career in human resources, industrial relations, or organisational development
Lawyers can leverage their legal expertise and transferable skills to transition into careers in human resources, industrial relations, or organisational development. Here are some strategies and considerations for making this career shift:
Identify Transferable Skills and Expertise
Lawyers possess a unique set of skills and expertise that can be highly valuable in human resources and related fields. These include strong analytical and research abilities, attention to detail, negotiation and communication skills, and a deep understanding of employment laws, labour regulations, and ethical issues. Recognising and highlighting these transferable skills will be essential when transitioning into a new career path.
Develop Industry-Specific Knowledge
While legal knowledge is a strong foundation, developing industry-specific knowledge in human resources, industrial relations, or organisational development is crucial. Consider enrolling in courses or certifications that provide an overview of key concepts, best practices, and current trends in these fields. This demonstrates a commitment to professional development and ensures you have the necessary tools to excel in your new role.
Network and Seek Mentorship
Building a strong professional network in your desired field can greatly facilitate your career transition. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities and forums, and connect with professionals already working in human resources, industrial relations, or organisational development. Seek mentorship from individuals who have successfully transitioned from law to these fields, as they can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your unique background.
Highlight Relevant Experience
When applying for jobs in human resources or related fields, emphasise any relevant experience that aligns with the new role. For example, if you have experience in employment law, labour relations, or workplace investigations, highlight how this knowledge can contribute to effective employee relations, conflict resolution, and compliance within an organisation. Demonstrating an understanding of the intersection between law and these fields will make your application stand out.
Stay Open to Learning and Adaptation
Recognise that transitioning into a new career path requires adaptability and a willingness to learn. Embrace new challenges and be open to learning from colleagues with different professional backgrounds. Stay up to date with industry developments and be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities to enhance your skill set. This mindset will not only facilitate a smoother transition but also contribute to your long-term career success in these evolving fields.
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Become an investigator, detective, or law professor
Investigator
Investigators collect and prepare case-related information for lawyers, either as law firm staff, government employees, or private contractors. To become a legal investigator, one must gain experience in a legal field, pursue relevant education (like a law degree or legal studies), and obtain certification from the National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI). Investigators need strong communication, analytical, teamwork, and presentation skills, along with the ability to work under pressure and proficiency in computer skills.
Detective
There is a difference between police detectives and private investigators (PIs). Police detectives typically garner investigative experience through their work in law enforcement and are promoted to the position by their agency. They conduct interviews with witnesses or suspects, examine records, collect and document evidence, prepare reports, observe the activity of subjects, secure crime scenes, get arrest warrants, participate in the apprehension of criminals, and serve as expert witnesses in court.
On the other hand, PIs are citizens who typically need state licensure and gather clients' legal, financial, and personal information. They conduct surveillance, perform background checks, track missing people, search records for clues, and interview people of interest. To become a detective, candidates must have a high school diploma and five years of investigative experience, including two years in case management. Some states may have additional requirements, such as licensure exams.
Law Professor
To become a law professor, one typically needs to have attended a prestigious school, have a strong academic background, and demonstrate dynamic teaching skills. While not all law professors have a doctorate, many have PhD-level degrees, clerked at a high court, worked in a prestigious firm, and published frequently.
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Work in corporate consultancy, public relations, or account management
Lawyers can leverage their legal expertise and skills to pursue diverse career paths beyond traditional law practice. One such path is venturing into corporate consultancy, public relations, or account management roles.
In corporate consultancy, lawyers can offer specialised advice and guidance to businesses across various industries. They can work as in-house counsel for corporations, providing legal insights on business operations, ethics, contracts, and strategic decisions. With their understanding of the legal landscape, corporate lawyers can navigate international business transactions, ensuring compliance with regulations and mitigating legal risks. Additionally, lawyers in corporate consultancy can advise on mergers and acquisitions, providing due diligence and structuring the deal to comply with legal requirements.
Public relations is another avenue where lawyers can excel. Their expertise in litigation and crisis communications can be invaluable to organisations facing legal challenges or needing to navigate complex legal issues. Former lawyers turned PR professionals can effectively manage media relations, craft strategic messages, and ensure legal accuracy in public statements, especially during sensitive situations.
Account management is a natural fit for lawyers due to their ability to build and maintain client relationships. In this role, lawyers can act as the bridge between their organisation and its clients, ensuring that the firm understands the client's business, legal goals, and challenges. Effective account managers with legal backgrounds can provide tailored solutions, drive process improvements, and increase client satisfaction by delivering services that meet their specific needs. They can also gather and analyse client feedback, identifying areas for improvement and driving change initiatives to enhance the client experience.
Lawyers transitioning into these roles can leverage their analytical skills, attention to detail, communication abilities, and understanding of legal processes to succeed. Whether it's providing corporate consultancy, managing public relations during a crisis, or fostering strong client relationships through account management, lawyers possess transferable skills that can be readily applied in these diverse fields.
By exploring these alternative career paths, lawyers can discover fulfilling opportunities that blend their legal expertise with new passions and interests, allowing them to contribute their unique skills in non-traditional yet highly rewarding ways.
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Find a job in the alternative disputes area, such as mediation
If you're a lawyer looking to explore career options in alternative dispute resolution, there are several paths you can take. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a growing field that provides a way to settle disputes outside of a courtroom. Here are some steps to help you find a job in this area:
Determine your niche:
ADR professionals can take on various roles, including mediators, ADR program directors, contract and negotiation specialists, conciliators, and conflict management consultants. Consider your interests and strengths to choose a niche that aligns with your passions and legal expertise.
Develop the necessary skills:
ADR professionals require strong communication, critical thinking, active listening, and negotiation skills. They must be adept at facilitating communication between conflicting parties, helping them find common ground and reaching mutually acceptable resolutions. If you feel you need to enhance these skills, consider taking classes or coaching to improve your proficiency.
Gain relevant experience:
Experience in the legal field or in handling disputes is highly valuable for ADR roles. If you're currently working as a lawyer, you can explore mediation or arbitration alongside your legal practice to gain this experience. You can also look for internships or volunteer opportunities in the field to build your resume.
Build a professional network:
Networking is crucial for finding job opportunities in any field. Attend industry events, join relevant associations, and connect with professionals in the ADR space. Don't be afraid to reach out to people in the field and ask questions about their career paths. They may be able to offer valuable insights or even inform you about potential job openings.
Search for job openings:
Keep an eye out for job postings on websites like ZipRecruiter, Indeed, and Global Peace Careers. You can also explore specific ADR service organizations, such as the American Arbitration Association, which offers administrative support roles. Additionally, consider reaching out directly to ADR firms or companies that interest you, even if they may not have advertised job openings.
Remember that transitioning to a new career field can take time, and it's normal to encounter challenges along the way. Embrace the skills you've gained as a lawyer, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone as you explore the diverse opportunities in alternative dispute resolution.
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Pursue a career in investment banking
Lawyers can pursue a wide range of career paths outside of legal practice, including investment banking. While it can be challenging to transition from law to another field, it is possible to leverage your legal skills and experience in a new direction.
If you're a lawyer considering a career in investment banking, here are some things to keep in mind:
Networking is Key
Networking is crucial when transitioning to investment banking. Reach out to former lawyers from your firm or other firms who have made a similar career shift. They can provide valuable insights and advice. Utilize LinkedIn and your alumni networks to find contacts at banks and introduce yourself via email. Ask about their transition journey and any tips they can offer.
Overcoming Stereotypes
There is a stereotype that lawyers are uncomfortable with numbers and lack knowledge in accounting or finance. To counter this perception, showcase your quantitative skills and interest in finance. Consider enrolling in a modeling class, studying pitch books, or investigating CFA certification to strengthen your financial acumen.
Demonstrate Adaptability
Investment banks seek candidates who are action-oriented and sales-driven. During interviews, be prepared to discuss why you are switching careers and your long-term plans. Explain how your legal experience has prepared you for the challenges of investment banking, highlighting any relevant financial aspects of deals you worked on.
Timing and Persistence
Transitioning into investment banking can take time, and you may need to allow for a period of exploration and networking before securing a position. Be prepared for a steep learning curve, as investment banking requires skills in valuation, financial data analysis, and financial modeling. It is essential to stay persistent and patient during your job search.
Self-Reflection
Before making the transition, reflect on your motivations for leaving legal practice and your genuine interest in investment banking. Ask yourself if it is the right path for you, and be honest about your passion for finance and sales. Consider whether you want to become a career banker or if you are primarily interested in the exit opportunities it presents.
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Frequently asked questions
Alternative careers for lawyers include corporate consultancy, public relations, teaching, academia, account management, paralegal positions, investigation jobs, and contract management.
Lawyers with experience in litigation and advocacy can step into mediation. The alternative dispute area is growing as the legal system and government seek to drive efficiency.
If you have a passion for entertainment, you can explore public relations openings at agencies that focus on the entertainment industry. You can also consider journalism, as lawyers have stellar interview and investigatory skills, and a real interest in telling people's stories.
Talking to people and networking is the most likely way to find a position. You can also join an association and meet people in the field you're interested in. It is also recommended to create a thoughtful and carefully designed career plan to help you make an informed decision and focus your time, energy, and resources toward achieving your goals.
