Although practicing law in a courtroom can be exciting and rewarding for some, JD graduates have a wide range of career options.
It’s important for graduates preparing to take the bar exam to think about the type of law they want to practice. Knowing your options, whether you’re a JD student on campus or online, can help shape your career. Take a look at some exciting law careers which don’t require you to appear in court.
Corporate Counsel
Corporate counsel is one of the many options available to JD graduates. Corporate counsel provide legal advice on a variety of issues including employment law, intellectual properties, compliance and regulatory matters. In this role, attorneys work closely with executives to provide strategic legal advice while helping companies navigate complicated business environments. This is a great option for people who like to combine legal expertise and business operations.
Intellectual Property (IP Attorney)
A career as an Intellectual Property Attorney might be the right fit for JD graduates who are passionate about innovation and technology. IP attorneys manage and protect intellectual property assets such as patents, trademarks and copyrights. They are responsible for conducting legal research, filing patent applications, negotiating license agreements, and representing their clients in disputes. This is a challenging and dynamic field, particularly with the rapid advances in technology and global innovations.
Compliance Officer
In an age of increasing regulations and complex regulatory structures, compliance officers are in high demand. Compliance officers are responsible for ensuring that organizations follow laws, regulations and internal policies. JD graduates with a legal background possess the skills necessary to assess risks and develop compliance programs. They can also provide guidance in legal and ethical issues. This role involves working closely together with different departments to develop effective compliance strategies, and cultivate a culture for integrity in organizations.
Legal Consultant
Legal consultants can be appealing to those who like variety and flexibility. Legal consultants are JD graduates who provide clients with expert guidance and advice on specific legal issues without taking the traditional role of an attorney. In this role, attorneys can work independently and offer their services based on projects. Legal consultants assist clients in legal research, contract writing, and regulatory compliance. Legal consultants can be advisors for specialized fields like healthcare or environmental law.
Mediator or Arbitrator
You might consider a career in mediation or arbitration if you are good at conflict resolution and negotiation. These professionals serve as neutral third-parties to help parties in dispute reach mutually acceptable solutions outside of the courtroom. Arbitrators are responsible for making binding decisions, while mediators facilitate discussions and encourage compromis. These roles require a thorough understanding of law, excellent communication skills, as well as impartiality.
Although the image of a legal career is often associated with the courtroom, there are many other options available. JD graduates can explore fulfilling and rewarding paths as corporate counsel, intellectual property attorneys, compliance officers, legal consultants, or mediators/arbitrators. Before you put on your lawyer’s robes consider all the exciting opportunities that are available to you outside of the courtroom.