There are a lot of misconceptions about having a career in law: that only people with connections in their families will be successful, that you have to be a book worm, that you can only become a lawyer or a judge and so on. Of course, these myths can be true sometimes, but they are often false.
If you’re thinking about enrolling in law school, or even if you are just curious about what having a career in law implies, here are 10 things to consider.
You have many career options
Law is not just for lawyers or in the courtroom as it affects all aspects of society; from the protection of life and liberty to corporate or international relations, law graduates are capable of doing many important roles in various professions. With a law degree, you can be successful in any related field or profession like politics, management, journalism, international relations, police, and so on.
What do world leaders like Barrack Obama, Margaret Thatcher, Mahatma Gandhi have in common? They all studied law, and others too numerous to mention, were able to scale through in life and make a difference because of it.
It’s a rewarding profession
You will likely work long hours, as well as take on projects that are challenging and could be stressful.
For example, some lawyers travel the country, or even the world, to participate in trials, depositions, and business deals. Others work with business leaders, politicians, sports figures, and even celebrities. Making a difference, upholding the rule of law, and helping to win cases especially when the odds are small will be more than rewarding.
It is intellectually challenging
Those who are curious and have the energy to keep learning will find themselves enjoying the intellectual challenges and rigor associated with a legal career.
As a future law student, you should be prepared to never stop learning as it’s very important to stay up-to-date with new legal changes, as well as with the technology trends. Given the advanced era that we are in, it’s very exciting and dynamic to be a member of this profession.
Awareness of rights and responsibilities
With the knowledge of your rights and responsibilities as a citizen, you will definitely be more careful and involved.
In addition, you will be able to question certain laws that are obnoxious and encourage others to fight for their rights. You learn to be more intentional and take more actions – you begin to think about strategy and outcomes a lot more than you did.
It’s a noble profession
By choosing a legal career you will unquestionably feel like you are making a difference in the world, and you are. As a lawyer you are able to defend a person’s rights and interest, to turn the tide in one’s favor and to provide advice.
After all, it is being said that only painters and lawyers can turn black into white and it’s defintely true. Also, a judge’s job is no less important: they have to make the biggest and most important decisions that could change a person’s destiny. These are just a few examples; having a legal career is more than that, as I explained at point 1.
You will become a great negotiator
By choosing a legal career you will, without doubt, be knowing how to argue and negotiate like a pro.
Law school will teach you that almost everything is negotiable and will give you the knowledge to help you see both sides of a story or situation to come up with a counterargument.
Prestige
Pursuing law prepares you to enter a circle of few elites who command respect and who embody the real definition of success.
You’re even in a unique position to impact leaders and politicians to effect change around the world.
Financial success
Let’s face it: this is a very important aspect, as well. You may not have immediate financial freedom but as you progress, you will be faced with more job options which bring about financial stability and your salary will increase with more experience in the field.
So, yes, by choosing a career and law you have high earning potential.
Job stability
Economic downturns have the power to put some industries under. However, this is not the case when you have a career in law.
The legal sector has fared pretty well in recent history however, thanks in part to law firms expanding into new markets and diversifying their offering. No matter what becomes of the economy, you should still find opportunities as a legal professional.
Creating a great network
In general, people who enroll into Law School share the same passion and interest and you’re likely to make a lot of nice friends with the same mindset as yours.
You’ll find yourself studying together with these people, discussing a lot of interesing things, attending in lectures and working on projects and also doing a lot of fun things. And let’s face it, having the same things in common with a group and feeling like you belong to it it’s a very nice feeling.
Andreea-Cătălina Ambrino
Legal intern R&R Partners Bucharest
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