Choosing a degree in law can be daunting. There are a multitude of options available, including different career paths and specializations. Here are some of the major things to consider. A law degree will allow you to specialize in a particular area of the law, such as litigation, business, or taxation. Regardless of your motivations, this field is a rewarding career path for many people. If you have questions, the links below can help you get started.
Degrees
There are many ways to pursue a degree in law, including becoming a criminal defense attorney, a probation officer, or an investment banker. Those with advanced degrees in law may also choose to become lawyers or judges. Lawyers represent their clients in court, research legal issues, and prepare legal documents. Many work for the government, while others may decide to become arbitrators or conciliators. Arbitrators help to guide dialogue between disputing parties, while conciliators prepare settlement agreements.
Careers
Despite its low pay and poor job outlook during the early 2000s, the legal industry is recovering and is expected to see job growth through 2022. While projections vary based on position, the median annual salary for legal occupations is expected to be over $35,000 in the next decade. This is a decent increase compared to other occupations in the legal field. A number of online resources are available to help students find their ideal job.
Career paths
There are many career paths for lawyers, including in-house legal counsel, small businesses, and traditional firms. The legal profession is also a diverse field that can involve work in government departments, courts, and even community centers. The career path for most lawyers begins with a position as a solicitor. This role provides many opportunities, but choosing a particular practice area is important as well. Listed below are some of the most common career paths for lawyers.
Specializations
There are several areas of specialization in law. Patent law focuses on protecting the rights of individuals and entities. Patents protect the creation of new ideas, including innovations, and give the owner of the patent the exclusive right to sell or reproduce the ideas. Trademarks protect a company’s brand name and logo. These areas of law are closely related, and candidates in these areas should have a broad understanding of both. However, there are several other specializations within this area as well.
Job outlook
The job outlook for lawyers is very good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an annual increase of 6% for this field. However, the increase may not be sufficient to fill the vacancies. As a result, more law firms are turning to non-attorney professionals to do research and preparation work. The job outlook is positive, and it is one reason that law school students are encouraged to consider this field. This article explores the various options for career advancement.