A law degree opens many doors beyond traditional legal practice. Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors including corporate, government, and non-profit organizations.
Jobs with a Law Degree
1) Lawyer
Lawyers represent clients in legal matters, providing advice and advocacy. They research laws, prepare legal documents, and argue cases in court.
Job Duties:
- Advising clients on legal rights and obligations
- Researching and analyzing legal issues
- Preparing and filing legal documents
- Representing clients in court proceedings
- Negotiating settlements
Typical Salary: $126,930 per year, though this varies by specialization, location, and experience.
A typical day might include client meetings, document preparation, legal research, and court appearances. Some days focus entirely on case preparation, while others center on courtroom advocacy.
Becoming a lawyer requires completing a Juris Doctor degree (3 years) and passing the bar exam in your state. Many start at law firms as associates before advancing to partner positions.
2) Judge
Judges preside over court proceedings and make rulings on legal issues. They ensure fair application of the law and maintain order in the courtroom.
Job Duties:
- Presiding over trials and hearings
- Interpreting laws and making legal decisions
- Issuing court orders and sentencing convicted individuals
- Managing courtroom operations
- Writing opinions explaining legal reasoning
Typical Salary: $148,520 annually for state judges, with federal judges earning around $218,600.
A judge’s day typically involves reviewing case materials, presiding over hearings or trials, and writing legal opinions. They also manage administrative responsibilities related to their court.
Most judges start as lawyers with 10+ years of experience. The path often includes judicial clerkships and sometimes election or appointment to the bench, depending on the jurisdiction.
3) Prosecutor
Prosecutors represent the government in criminal cases. They determine which cases to pursue and present evidence against defendants.
Job Duties:
- Investigating potential crimes with law enforcement
- Determining appropriate charges
- Presenting cases in court
- Managing plea bargains
- Recommending sentences
Typical Salary: $70,000-$130,000, depending on experience and jurisdiction.
Day-to-day work involves case review, witness preparation, court appearances, and coordination with law enforcement. Prosecutors often handle multiple cases simultaneously.
Becoming a prosecutor requires a JD degree and passing the bar exam. Many begin in entry-level positions at district attorney offices, gaining experience through increasingly complex cases.
4) Public Defender
Public defenders provide legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney. They ensure constitutional rights to legal counsel are upheld.
Job Duties:
- Representing clients in criminal proceedings
- Investigating cases and gathering evidence
- Negotiating plea deals
- Preparing legal strategies
- Advocating for appropriate sentences
Typical Salary: $60,000-$100,000, typically lower than private practice attorneys.
A public defender might meet with multiple clients, attend arraignments, file motions, and appear in court all in one day. The workload is often heavy with limited resources.
The path to this career requires a JD degree and bar passage. Many offices provide training programs for new attorneys. Public defenders gain extensive courtroom experience quickly compared to other legal paths.
5) Mediator
Mediators help people resolve disputes without litigation. They facilitate discussions between disagreeing parties to reach mutually acceptable solutions.
A mediator’s duties include:
- Setting ground rules for discussions
- Guiding conversation between parties
- Helping identify areas of agreement
- Assisting in developing settlement options
The median salary for mediators ranges from $60,000 to $75,000 annually, though experienced professionals in specialized fields may earn over $100,000.
A typical day might involve reviewing case materials, conducting mediation sessions, drafting settlement agreements, and scheduling future meetings.
To become a mediator, most professionals need:
- A bachelor’s degree (law degree preferred but not required)
- 40-60 hours of mediation training
- Several hundred hours of practical experience
- State certification (requirements vary by location)
6) Arbitrator
Arbitrators serve as private judges who make binding decisions in disputes. Unlike mediators, they don’t facilitate agreement but render final judgments after hearing evidence.
Arbitrators typically:
- Review documents and evidence before hearings
- Conduct formal hearings where parties present cases
- Question witnesses and parties
- Issue written decisions that resolve the dispute
Arbitrators earn between $70,000 and $100,000 on average, with those handling complex commercial cases commanding higher fees.
The workday of an arbitrator often includes studying case materials, conducting hearings, researching legal precedents, and writing opinions.
Becoming an arbitrator usually requires:
- A law degree (J.D.)
- Several years of legal experience (5-10 years)
- Training in alternative dispute resolution techniques
- Membership in professional organizations like the American Arbitration Association
7) Paralegal
Paralegals provide essential support to attorneys by handling research, document preparation, and case management. They draft legal documents, organize case files, and gather evidence for court proceedings.
Job Duties:
- Conducting legal research and analyzing legal issues
- Preparing legal documents like contracts and briefs
- Organizing and maintaining case files
- Assisting with trial preparation
The average paralegal earns $52,000-$70,000 annually, with higher salaries in major cities and specialized fields.
A typical day might include researching case law, drafting documents, communicating with clients, and attending meetings with attorneys.
To become a paralegal, you could earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. Some positions require certification from organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants. Many law graduates find this role valuable for gaining practical experience.
8) Legal Recruiter
Legal recruiters connect law firms and companies with qualified legal talent. They understand the specific needs of legal employers and help match them with appropriate candidates.
Key Responsibilities:
- Building relationships with law firms and corporate legal departments
- Identifying and screening potential candidates
- Conducting interviews and checking references
- Advising clients on hiring trends and salary expectations
Legal recruiters typically earn $60,000-$100,000 base salary, with commissions potentially doubling total compensation.
Their day often involves networking calls, candidate interviews, resume reviews, and client meetings. Strong writing skills help when crafting job descriptions and candidate presentations.
You can enter this field with a law degree and no additional certifications, though recruitment experience helps. Many legal recruiters previously practiced law, giving them insight into what makes candidates successful.
9) Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure organizations follow laws, regulations, and internal policies. They develop compliance programs, conduct audits, and manage risk across various industries.
Primary Functions:
- Creating and implementing compliance policies
- Monitoring regulatory changes
- Conducting internal audits and investigations
- Training employees on compliance issues
Compliance officers earn $75,000-$130,000 depending on industry and experience, with financial services typically paying most.
A typical day includes reviewing regulations, assessing risk areas, communicating with department heads, and documenting compliance activities. Attention to detail is critical for identifying potential issues.
To become a compliance officer, your law degree provides valuable knowledge of regulations. You might enhance your credentials with certifications like Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP). Many compliance officers gain experience in legal departments before transitioning to this role.
10) Judicial Clerk
Judicial clerks work directly with judges, helping analyze cases and draft legal opinions. They review court filings, conduct legal research, and prepare bench memoranda for upcoming cases.
Job duties include:
- Researching legal issues and precedents
- Writing draft opinions and orders
- Managing case files and court documents
- Attending court proceedings and conferences
A typical day might involve morning meetings with the judge, several hours of legal research, and drafting documents in the afternoon.
The average salary ranges from $50,000 to $75,000, depending on the court level and location. Federal clerkships typically pay more than state positions.
To become a judicial clerk, candidates need a law degree and strong academic credentials. Most clerkships last 1-2 years and serve as stepping stones to other legal careers. Competition can be intense, especially for federal and appellate court positions.
11) FBI Agent
FBI agents with law degrees investigate federal crimes and national security threats. Their legal background helps them understand complex statutes and build stronger cases.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting criminal investigations
- Interviewing witnesses and suspects
- Collecting and analyzing evidence
- Preparing reports and testifying in court
- Collaborating with prosecutors on legal strategy
FBI agents earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, based on experience and position level.
The path to becoming an FBI agent includes completing a law degree, passing the FBI entrance exam, and undergoing 20 weeks of training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, pass rigorous background checks, and typically need 2-3 years of professional experience.
12) Law Professor
Law professors teach courses at law schools and conduct research in specialized legal areas. They develop curriculum, prepare lectures, grade assignments, and publish scholarly articles.
Job duties:
- Teaching law courses to students
- Conducting legal research and publishing findings
- Advising students on academic matters
- Serving on faculty committees
The typical salary for law professors ranges from $80,000 to $180,000 depending on experience, institution type, and location.
A typical day might include teaching classes, holding office hours, reviewing student work, and working on research projects. Many professors enjoy flexible schedules outside of class time.
Becoming a law professor generally requires:
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree
- Often a Master of Laws (LLM) or PhD
- Several years of legal practice experience
- Strong academic credentials and publishing record
13) Career Services Advisor
These professionals help law students and alumni navigate their job search and career development. They work within law school career services offices to connect students with opportunities.
Job duties:
- Counseling students on career options
- Organizing recruitment events and interviews
- Building relationships with employers
- Creating career development resources
Career services advisors typically earn between $55,000 and $95,000 annually, with variations based on the law school’s size and prestige.
A typical day involves meeting with students, contacting potential employers, planning events, and updating job listings. The position offers a good work-life balance with regular hours.
To become a career services advisor, candidates usually need:
- A law degree (JD)
- Some professional legal experience
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Knowledge of legal job markets and recruitment trends
14) In-House Counsel
In-house counsel lawyers work directly for companies rather than at law firms. They handle the organization’s legal matters and serve as legal advisors to executives.
Job duties typically include:
- Reviewing contracts and business agreements
- Managing compliance with regulations
- Advising on business decisions with legal implications
- Handling employment issues and intellectual property matters
In-house counsel usually earn between $90,000-$200,000 annually, depending on company size and location.
A typical day might involve meeting with department heads, drafting legal documents, and researching regulatory changes affecting the company.
To become an in-house counsel, you need:
- A Juris Doctor (JD) degree
- Passing the bar exam
- 3-5 years of experience, often at a law firm
- Strong writing skills and attention to detail
15) Management Consultant
Management consultants with law backgrounds help businesses solve problems and improve performance while navigating legal considerations.
These professionals:
- Analyze business operations and identify inefficiencies
- Develop strategies that comply with relevant laws
- Present recommendations to clients
- Implement solutions while managing legal risk
Management consultants with law degrees typically earn $85,000-$160,000, with potential for significant bonuses at top firms.
The daily work involves analyzing data, meeting with clients, and creating reports. Projects might last weeks or months, often requiring travel.
Getting into this field requires:
- A law degree (beneficial but not always required)
- Strong analytical abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- Sometimes an MBA or relevant certifications
16) Human Resources Specialist
Law graduates in HR focus on employment law, compliance, and workplace policies.
Key responsibilities include:
- Creating legally compliant workplace policies
- Managing employee disputes and investigations
- Overseeing hiring and termination procedures
- Ensuring the company follows labor laws
HR specialists with legal backgrounds typically earn $70,000-$120,000, with higher salaries for senior positions or specialized roles.
A day might include reviewing employment contracts, conducting training on workplace laws, or advising managers on legal approaches to personnel issues.
The path to this career often involves:
- A law degree (especially helpful for higher-level positions)
- HR certifications (SHRM-CP or PHR)
- Knowledge of employment and labor laws
- Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution abilities
17) Advocate
An advocate in public interest law works to promote social justice causes and represent individuals who might otherwise lack access to legal help. They often focus on specific issues like environmental protection, immigration, or civil rights.
Advocates typically:
- Research and analyze policy issues
- Draft legislation or policy recommendations
- Build coalitions with other organizations
- Speak at public events and educate communities
- File impact litigation cases to change laws
Their daily work might include meeting with clients, attending community events, or preparing legal documents.
Most advocates earn between $45,000-$75,000 annually, though this varies widely depending on location and organization size.
Becoming an advocate requires a law degree and passing the bar exam. Many start with internships or fellowships at nonprofit organizations during law school. A background in the specific cause area can be helpful.
18) Legal Aid Attorney
Legal aid attorneys provide free or low-cost legal services to people who cannot afford traditional legal representation. They handle cases involving housing, family law, public benefits, and consumer issues.
These attorneys:
- Interview clients to assess their legal needs
- Represent clients in court proceedings
- Negotiate with opposing parties
- Complete legal paperwork and documentation
- Provide legal advice at community clinics
A typical day might include client meetings, court appearances, and document preparation.
Legal aid attorneys generally earn $45,000-$65,000 per year, though some experienced attorneys in larger cities may earn more.
To become a legal aid attorney, candidates need a law degree and must pass the bar exam in their state. Many organizations look for experience with their client population, so internships or clinics during law school are valuable. Spanish language skills are often preferred but not required.
19) Legal Technology Specialist
Legal technology specialists bridge the gap between law and technology. These professionals develop, implement, and manage software solutions for law firms and legal departments.
Their daily responsibilities include:
• Evaluating legal tech tools and platforms
• Training attorneys on new software
• Troubleshooting technical issues
• Ensuring data security compliance
A typical day might involve meeting with attorneys to understand their workflow challenges, researching new technology solutions, and implementing systems that improve efficiency.
Most legal tech specialists earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience and location. Salaries tend to be higher in major metropolitan areas.
To become one, you need a law degree plus technical aptitude or certifications. Many specialists start as attorneys and develop tech skills through additional courses in areas like coding, data analytics, or project management.
20) Policy Analyst
Policy analysts research, analyze, and help shape regulations and laws. They work for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups, and corporations.
Their key responsibilities include:
• Researching existing policies and their impacts
• Drafting policy recommendations
• Analyzing proposed legislation
• Communicating findings to stakeholders
A typical day might involve collecting data, writing reports, attending meetings with policymakers, and staying current on legislative developments.
Policy analysts with law degrees typically earn $65,000 to $95,000 per year. Government positions often offer stability and benefits, while private sector roles may pay more.
The path to this career usually requires a law degree plus strong research and writing skills. Some positions may ask for additional qualifications in economics, public administration, or specific policy areas like healthcare or environmental regulation.