Cecily Zamora
A law degree is a versatile qualification that can lead to a variety of career paths beyond the legal profession. While many law graduates go on to become lawyers, solicitors, or barristers, others use their skills and knowledge in alternative fields. These include politics, journalism, education, finance, business development, human resources, and policy analysis. A law degree is highly regarded by employers and can provide a strong foundation for leadership and entrepreneurial roles. Additionally, the analytical, communication, and management skills developed during legal studies are transferable and sought-after in various industries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Career options | Solicitor, barrister, lawyer, judge, journalist, law professor, policy analyst, private investigator, legislator, entrepreneur, CEO, lobbyist, political process legislative representative, librarian, manager, business management in start-ups, public defender, corporate counsel, real estate attorney, and many more |
| Skills developed | Analytical, communication, and management skills |
| Work experience | Mini-pupillage, work shadowing, internships, student groups, student law clinic, legal work experience, and university law society |
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What You'll Learn
Legal careers
A law degree is a great asset when pursuing a legal career. While many law graduates go on to become lawyers, solicitors, or barristers, there are numerous other paths to explore.
Lawyer
Lawyers can work in various settings, including small boutique firms, large multinational firms, or as solo practitioners. They can also work in the public interest sector, for legal aid societies, or as public defenders. Lawyers often join firms as associates and work their way up to partner level.
Judge
Judges oversee courtroom proceedings, ensure the legality of evidence, and determine sentences. They act as impartial arbiters and are responsible for educating juries about the law and its application.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts address social and political issues by researching, developing, and evaluating policies. They study communities to identify prevalent problems and use their findings to advocate for new or revised policies.
Legislative Representative
Law graduates can work in the political process as legislative representatives, influencing the creation of laws. They may work for state legislatures, regulatory agencies, or as lobbyists.
In-house Counsel
Many corporations employ in-house attorneys or legal counsel to advise the company on legal matters related to its business. Large companies often have large legal departments with attorneys specializing in specific issues.
Law School Professor
Law school professors educate students on legal concepts and prepare them for their legal careers. They teach students how to interpret laws and legal documents, apply legal principles to cases, and use ethical practices. Professors also conduct research and provide career guidance.
Law degrees provide a strong foundation for various legal careers, and graduates can find diverse paths within the legal profession to suit their interests and skills.
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Academia
A law degree is a great asset if you're interested in pursuing a career in academia. Here are some options to consider:
Law Professor or Lecturer
Law school graduates often teach in law schools, colleges, and universities. To become a law professor, you may need to complete additional studies, such as a Master's in Law (LLM) or a higher degree like an SJD. Law professors can focus on specific areas of interest, such as entertainment law, finance and banking law, or environmental law. They can also teach more general legal subjects.
Academic Administrator
Law graduates can also work in non-teaching roles within academic institutions. These roles may include positions such as Dean, Director of Admissions, Alumni Affairs and Development, or Career Services. Law graduates with an interest in education management may find these roles rewarding.
Researcher or Academic Writer
A law degree can be a great foundation for a career in research or academic writing. Law graduates may find opportunities to research and write about legal topics, contributing to the advancement of legal knowledge. This path may involve pursuing further qualifications, such as a Master's or Doctorate, to gain expertise in a specific area of law.
Librarian or Information Specialist
Law degrees are highly valued in librarian positions, especially in law school libraries. Law graduates with a passion for information management and research can find fulfilling careers as academic librarians or information specialists within educational institutions.
Law School Administration
Law schools often have administrative staff with legal backgrounds. These roles may include admissions counselling, career services, alumni relations, or other operational aspects of running a law school. Law graduates interested in the inner workings of legal education may find these roles rewarding.
The options outlined above demonstrate the diverse opportunities a law degree can offer in the field of academia. Whether you aspire to teach, research, write, or contribute to the management of educational institutions, your legal qualification can be a valuable asset in pursuing a rewarding career in academia.
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Politics
A law degree can be a great stepping stone to a career in politics. Studying law teaches you how to construct arguments, think critically, and challenge policy—all valuable skills needed for a career in politics. It also gives you a greater awareness of the implications of what parliament does and the application and different interpretations of policy within society, which is key to understanding the influence and limitations of politics.
Law graduates working in politics have confidence, public speaking skills, and the ability to effectively formulate an argument. There are many interesting jobs in politics for law students, such as working in public relations, communications, consultancy, or even in the civil service. Many lawyers hold public office at every level, and several US presidents have been lawyers. Lawyers also account for many seats in the Senate and Congress, as well as at the state and local levels.
If you're interested in politics, it's a good idea to get some undergraduate political experience before going to law school. You can gain this experience through internships with legislators, local attorneys, nonprofit organizations, public officials, and political candidates. You can also volunteer on political campaigns, which can lead to networking opportunities and even paid positions.
A degree in political science can also be a great way to get into politics, as it provides a strong foundation in political systems, legal structures, and societal issues, while building skills in analysis, research, and communications. With a political science degree, you can go into teaching and research, or you can pursue a career in business, journalism, or media.
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Business
A law degree is an excellent gateway to a career in business. Law graduates can work in various business roles, including business development, customer service, operations, administration, marketing, and human resources. A law degree provides a strong foundation for understanding complex information, analytical thinking, and effective communication, which are highly valued in the business world.
If you're interested in the finance industry, a law degree can be highly beneficial. You can work in bank trust departments, brokerage firms, insurance companies, and financial management roles. Understanding the legal implications and regulations in the finance sector is crucial, especially in the current landscape shaped by the global pandemic. A background in law can also be advantageous for roles in real estate, law enforcement, hospital administration, business consulting, and government affairs.
For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, a law degree can provide a solid foundation for starting your own business. Many law graduates have become successful CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. A law degree equips you with valuable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making, which are essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities of running a business.
Furthermore, a law degree can open doors to various business-related roles within law firms and legal departments. These include positions in business development, attorney recruitment, law firm finances, human resources, and office management. Understanding the legal landscape and possessing strong analytical skills can make you a valuable asset in these roles.
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Journalism
A law degree can be a great asset for a career in journalism, particularly in legal journalism. Legal journalists are responsible for specialised reporting on all matters pertaining to the field of law. They convey complex legal concepts to the general public through various platforms, including newspapers, blog posts, and social media.
While a journalism degree is not necessary for legal journalism, it can be advantageous. Possessing strong writing skills and oratory skills is essential for a career in journalism, and a law degree can provide a solid foundation in these areas. Additionally, internships at law firms can offer valuable experience and insight into legal cases, making it easier to transition into legal journalism.
There are several routes to consider when pursuing a career in journalism with a law degree. One option is to become a legal journalist for a traditional news organisation, such as a newspaper or magazine. These organisations often have legal fellowships and internships that can provide a foot in the door. Developing a portfolio of writing samples that showcase different styles and topics is crucial when applying for such positions.
Another route is to explore business-to-business (B2B) publications, which often value the expertise of lawyers or individuals with law degrees as staff writers. These publications focus on industry-specific content, including legal topics. While a law degree is not always required for B2B journalism, it can be a significant advantage and set you apart from other candidates.
In addition to traditional media, the digital landscape offers numerous opportunities for legal journalists. Social media platforms and personal blogs can be utilised to build a following and establish oneself as an expert in legal matters. This route provides the flexibility to choose topics of interest and connect directly with an audience.
It is important to note that the job of a legal journalist may involve significant travel and irregular working hours, requiring a high level of dedication and a strong work ethic. Additionally, the pay grade for journalism positions might differ from that of established law firms.
Overall, a law degree can open doors to a rewarding career in journalism, particularly in the specialised field of legal journalism. With strong writing skills, a grasp of journalistic style, and a willingness to adapt, individuals with a law degree can successfully transition into the world of journalism and find fulfilment in conveying legal matters to a broad audience.
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Frequently asked questions
A law degree is a great asset for a variety of non-legal career paths. Some of these include:
- Journalism
- Teaching/Professor
- Entrepreneur
- Politics
- Finance
- Management
- Consulting
There are many legal career options for law degree graduates that do not involve being a lawyer. Some of these include:
- Working in a law firm in business development, clerk and attorney recruitment, law firm finances, human resources, or managing office workflow
- Working in a corporation as in-house counsel
- Working in the public sector as a public defender, or for legal-aid societies
Some of the most common legal career paths for law degree graduates include:
- Lawyer/Attorney
- Solicitor
- Barrister
- Judge
