Aspiring Lawyers Have No Shortage of Options

Summary: Want to know what the various career paths available in the legal field are? Find out in this article.

Question: I am considering college majors and career choices, and leaning toward becoming a lawyer. The only problem is that I am not sure what kind of lawyer I want to be. What are my options?

Answer: You have plenty of paths to consider. Here is a list of legal specialties:

Trial lawyers argue cases in the courtroom and spend time outside researching, interviewing clients and witnesses, and preparing cases.

Criminal lawyers represent people who have been charged with crimes.

Civil lawyers assist clients with litigation, wills, contracts, mortgages, and leases. Some specializations within civil law include bankruptcy, environmental law, and family law.

In-house counsel, employed by corporations, advise on matters that arise from business activities, such as patents, government regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.

Government attorneys are employed at various levels related to the criminal justice system, government agencies, and legislation.

Law clerks are fully trained attorneys who choose to work with a judge.

Law professors teach in law schools.

Continue your exploration by reviewing sites like BCGSearch.com (BCG Attorney Search) and the top lawyer job site, LawCrossing.com. As you move closer to graduation, use internships, work projects, and summer jobs to help solidify your decision.