Legal / Lawyer

Description

The legal industry encompasses a wide range of services related to the law, including legal advice, representation, and the preparation of legal documents. When used correctly, it upholds justice, protects rights, and ensures compliance with laws and regulations. The industry includes various sectors such as corporate law, criminal law, family law, intellectual property law, and more. 

Something Cool

Upholding justice and righting a wrong can be very fulfilling.

Types of Companies

• Law Firms: Provide a wide range of legal services to individuals and businesses.  Examples: Baker McKenzie, DLA Piper, Skadden Arps.

• Corporate Legal Departments: In-house legal teams that handle legal matters for corporations.  Examples: General Electric, Google, Microsoft.

• Public Interest Firms: Focus on cases that benefit the public or address social issues.  Examples: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Earthjustice.

• Government Agencies: Provide legal services and enforcement at the federal, state, or local level.  Examples: Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange Commission.

• Legal Tech Companies: Develop software and tools to support legal professionals.  Examples: Clio, LegalZoom, LexisNexis.

Further Education & Credentials Required

• Law Degree (JD): A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

• Bar Exam: Passing the bar exam in the state where you wish to practice.

• Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Ongoing education to stay current with legal developments.

• Certifications: Specialized certifications such as Certified Paralegal (CP), Accredited Legal Professional (ALP), or Professional Legal Secretary (PLS).

Entry Level Roles

• Paralegal

  • Description: Assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and organizing files.

  • Skills Required: Research skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, knowledge of legal terminology.

• Legal Assistant

  • Description: Provide administrative support to lawyers, including scheduling, document preparation, and client communication.

  • Skills Required: Communication skills, organizational skills, proficiency in office software, attention to detail.

• Law Clerk

  • Description: Assist judges or lawyers by researching legal issues, drafting opinions, and preparing case files.

  • Skills Required: Research skills, writing skills, analytical thinking, knowledge of legal procedures.

• Junior Associate

  • Description: Newly licensed attorneys who assist senior lawyers with case preparation, client meetings, and legal research.

  • Skills Required: Legal research, writing skills, client interaction, analytical thinking.

How To Learn More

• Talk to someone doing the role you want.  Check out my writings on The Gift of Asking for Help, Mentors and Networking 101 on The Search page to learn how to do this.

• Ask you preferred AI assistant. 

  • Better understand your own skills and where you will be successful at Roles.

  • Check out my writings on various industries and departments at the Industries page.

  • Already know what you want to do but are looking for guidance on how to find a job within that industry?  Check out The Search for advice.