Overview:

Careers in law have been known as prestigious for quite some time now. Of course, these types of jobs can be challenging and require a lot of work to start, but they are extremely rewarding and have tons of amazing benefits in the long run. There are so many different paths to take in the Legal industry, so read on to learn more about starting a law career.

Starting a Career in Law:

A career in law doesn’t necessarily mean being a lawyer. While some may choose to take that route and prepare to meet the qualifications necessary to be a lawyer, others choose to start their career as a legal assistant or paralegal. Unlike attorneys of any kind, paralegals and legal assistants do not need to pass the bar exam. Since these roles are typically people who work under the supervision of a licensed attorney, these types of jobs are great for those with no interest in taking the bar exam to become a licensed attorney or those who are in the process of studying for it.

Licensed attorneys, on the other hand, need to go to law school and pass the bar exam to practice any type of law. Law school requirements include taking the LSAT and a relatively high college G.P.A along with extracurriculars. Most law school programs take 3 years to complete, followed by passing the bar exam. The bar exam is offered twice a year usually and is a 2-day examination, sometimes 3.

Why Law?

With an array of positions at different levels and an ever-expanding range of practice areas, the legal industry offers you the opportunity to specialize in what you find personally interesting. Family, environmental and criminal law are just a handful of the routes you can take. Studying law also opens opportunities in new fields such as media, academia, and social work. Nearly every organization needs legal advice at some point in time, and you’ll have the power to make a real difference.

Besides the rewarding feeling, a career in law will give you, the pay is pretty high up in the ranks. Paralegals on average make anywhere from $55,000 to $75,000 per year. Licensed Lawyers can make anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000 per year. Since these careers fall at so many different levels, there is tons of room for professional growth. It is very common for people working as a legal assistant to later end up studying for the LSAT and attending law school.

Takeaway:

Working in the legal industry has a tremendous number of perks. There are so many different paths you can take, and there will never be a dull day. If you’re looking for a rewarding career that will provide you with stability for years to come, working in the legal sector may be for you.