Law school graduates can find many career opportunities both inside and outside the courtroom.
While most people who obtain a law degree will work in the legal field, there are a number of different career options for those with the degree. Graduates can use the skills gained in law school in many different ways. For example, government rules regulate many industries and require employees with legal training to help craft policies and procedures that will comply with these complex regulations.
Practicing Law
While working as a DUI attorney or drafting legal documents might not appeal to every law school graduate, the field allows lawyers to specialize in areas that interest them. No matter what cause the graduate is passionate about, there is likely an organization devoted to that cause that can use the services of an attorney. Lawyers can work for environmental groups, labor unions, civil rights organizations and others devoted to issues that appeal to someone with a law degree.
Education
Graduates of law school have many job opportunities in the field of education. Law school graduates may teach college-level classes in legal and related fields. Graduates may also find work for various non-profit agencies working to educate people on common legal issues. Attorneys who practiced law and gained a specific expertise will have education-related opportunities teaching students and other lawyers about this area of expertise. Textbook and other publishers also require employees with legal knowledge to assist in the preparation of texts dealing with legal subjects. Many law school graduates work at some level of education administration as well.
Financial Services
Many financial services providers require employees with an understanding of laws regarding complicated investment situations. For example, legal knowledge will assist financial planners to create trusts and plan investments for pension plans, both of which must comply with legal restrictions. A legal background also helps financial services employees handle real estate and other transactions regulated by law. Beyond specific legal knowledge, the research and communication skills learned in law school are a strong asset to professionals in the financial services field.
Government
Law school graduates have a number of employment options with federal, state and local government agencies. While many agencies employ lawyers that represent them in legal procedures, law school graduates also find work in other government positions. Potential employers include agencies that regulate the banking, insurance and securities industries, agencies that investigate violations of copyright and patent protections, as well as those responsible for national security.
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