There are many individuals who graduate with a degree in law that do not go on to be lawyers working within a law firm. In fact, there is no shortage of career options for those with a law degree who wish to pursue other opportunities.
Mediator: This is a very similar role to that of a lawyer. Often, a legal dispute will call in a neutral third party in the form of a mediator. This job is suited for individuals with a law degree who are excellent negotiators and experts in conflict resolution. While you are not required to have a law degree to be a mediator, those who have a background in legal studies will reap the benefits of their knowledge as they navigate difficult or tense scenarios working in this role.
Writer or Journalist: One of the major responsibilities of a lawyer is writing. Many aspects of law and making a case revolve around writing and research, so working as a writer or investigative journalist may be a great fit for those who enjoy heavy research. It may be necessary for individuals working in a news environment to have a firm grasp of the law, as media law is important to note when reporting stories. Slander and libel cases can abound within the field of journalism, so understanding how to disseminate information in a way that is protected by the law is a great asset to any writing or news organisation.
Lobbyist: For those who have an interest in politics, utilising their law degree to work as a lobbyist may be a great role. Lobbyists are paid advocates who are employed by a business, organization, or industry. A lobbyist’s job is to persuade policymakers or those in a position of power to enact laws or make choices that benefit their company or industry. It is not all that different from a lawyer convincing the jury to look at the facts or logic during a trial or pleading their case in front of a judge. Individuals who excel at persuasion and building strong arguments to support their case would thrive in this role.
Entrepreneur: While many believe an MBA is essential to launching your own business, a law degree may be just as valuable. When you start a business, there are many legal contracts to read and interpret, from forming an LLC to contracting third-party vendors. Possessing legal knowledge and being able to properly interpret its purpose can yield dividends for fledgling entrepreneurs. It will come in especially handy when you start hiring employees and need to be fluent and up to date with the latest employment laws.
While this is only a sample of the careers available for those who possess a law degree, these fields represent the breadth of options and emphasize the importance of law degrees across industries.