What Jobs Can You Get with a Law Degree?

Jacqui Coombe, LawFuel contributor

A law degree has always been considered a gateway to a prestigious legal career. The first idea for a job that comes to mind has a lot to do with the courtroom, right? But law degree jobs extend far beyond it.

Many graduates pursue traditional roles like solicitor or barrister. However, the skills you’ll develop through legal education are quite versatile: critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and analytical precision. 

There’s a lot to talk about when we consider this question: what can you do with a law degree? Maybe you’re a recent law school graduate weighing your options, or maybe you’re a seasoned legal professional considering a change. Whatever the case is, you’ll feel better about your options when you understand the full spectrum of career paths. 

Non-Legal Jobs with a Law Degree

Not every law graduate ends up practicing law, and that’s not a bad thing. The rigorous training law students undergo equips them with skills that are highly sought after in different industries. With this degree, you’ll get a competitive edge in roles that demand sharp analytical thinking, persuasive communication, and a firm grasp of complex regulatory environments. 

1. With their insider knowledge of legal roles and hiring standards, some law graduates choose to help others break into the legal field. They do that through their work for a legal resume writing service or career coaching platform.
2. These platforms hire law grads and former layers to craft persuasive, ATS-friendly resumes tailored to law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. As a resume writer, you’ll use your legal background while supporting the career growth of others in the field. 
3. Legal knowledge is a powerful asset in investigative journalism, legal commentary, and editorial roles. Reporters with legal training bring depth and accuracy to stories involving legislation, court proceedings, and policy changes. Some transition into media-focused roles as legal analysts or contributors. 
4. You can also consider law graduate jobs in politics, the government, or public service. You may become a policy advisor, legislative aid, or even run for office. The training you got at university will give you a firm grounding in how laws are made, interpreted, and enforced. 
5. There are interesting jobs with a law degree for those that enter the commercial world. They can aim for roles in compliance and risk management, as well as business consulting. Some take a more entrepreneurial path, starting their own businesses with the advantage of understanding contracts, liability, and negotiation inside out. 

Alternative Legal Careers

Can you practice law without the bar? Of course you can! Not everyone majoring in law wants to follow the conventional path of courtroom litigation or corporate counsel work. The legal field is evolving. 

As a result, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can apply their legal training in alternative roles. These careers offer more flexibility, less pressure, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. 

1. In highly regulated industries like finance, healthcare, and tech, companies need experts to ensure they operate within the law. That’s where compliance officers come in. Law graduates have a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks. They are ideal for monitoring internal policies, managing risk, and preventing costly legal missteps.
2. As a legal consultant, you can offer guidance on specific legal issues without representing clients in court. Consultants are often needed to advise on intellectual property, employment law, or contract negotiation.
3. These law professions are great for graduates who want to apply their expertise in a focused, project-based environment. They can work as freelancers or as part of a larger consultancy firm. 
4. It’s possible to engage in conflict resolution without the adversarial nature of litigation. Mediation and arbitration roles can be deeply rewarding. They focus on helping parties reach mutually acceptable solutions outside of the courtroom.
5. Many mediators hold a lawyer degree, so they are effective at guiding discussions, analyzing legal implications, and facilitating fair outcomes. From 2023 to 2033, the employment in this field is expected to grow by 6%, which is faster than the average for all professions.

Traditional Legal Careers

When you’re wondering what to do with a law degree, the traditional legal route is a compelling and fulfilling career choice. It offers prestige, intellectual challenge, and opportunities for advancement. These roles require bar admission and additional qualifications depending on the jurisdiction. But they also give you a clear structure and professional identity, rooted in the practice of law. 

1. Solicitors provide legal advice, draft documents, and handle transactions for individuals and businesses. They are usually the first point of contact for clients. They may specialize in areas like corporate law, family law, property, or criminal defense. In many jurisdictions, solicitors also prepare cases for barristers and represent clients in lower courts. 
2. Barristers are courtroom advocates who specialize in litigation and legal arguments. They are called upon for their expertise in legal reasoning and persuasive speaking. Usually, they work independently or through chambers.
3. Becoming a barrister involves additional training and accreditation, but it’s a dynamic career for those drawn to public speaking and high-stakes legal strategy. 
4. Many companies employ in-house counsel to handle legal matters related to contracts, compliance, employment, mergers, and risk management. As in-house counsel, law graduates become trusted advisors to businesses.
5. They work closely with senior leadership to guide strategic decisions. This role is perfect for those who prefer working within one organization rather than juggling multiple clients. 
6. For experienced professionals, becoming a judge or magistrate is the pinnacle of a legal career. These roles require years of practice, a reputation for fairness and legal insight, and often additional qualifications. Judges are responsible for interpreting the law, overseeing trials, and delivering judgments based on justice and the rule of law.     

Wrapping It Up

A law degree is way more than a path to the courtroom. It’s a versatile qualification that opens doors across industries, career changes and roles.

There’s something for everyone: those drawn to the structure of traditional legal practice, those intrigued by alternative roles within the legal field, and those inspired to explore opportunities beyond it. Your education gives you a solid foundation for professional success!