Best Legal Careers for Your Personality Type
The legal field is home to some of the most recession-proof and highest paying jobs out there, and the possibilities are virtually endless for those who are prepared to put in the hard work. Below, we explore a diverse range of best legal careers for different personality types, so you can find your perfect fit in the legal world.
1. Media & Entertainment Lawyer
Media lawyers work with clients in the film, television, music, sports and other industries to negotiate contracts, protect intellectual property rights, and handle any legal issues that arise. One day, you could be negotiating a multi-million dollar contract for a major movie star, and the next you could be helping an up-and-coming musician protect their original songs. The job is one of the more "extraverted" positions in the legal field, as it involves a lot of networking and relationship-building with clients. If you're outgoing, personable and love making deals, this could be the perfect legal career for your personality type.
2. Law Professor
If you're a natural born teacher with a passion for the law, becoming a law professor could be your calling. Not only do you get to shape the minds of future lawyers, but you also have the opportunity to conduct research and publish scholarly articles in your specialized field of law. This career is perfect for those who thrive in an academic environment and enjoy sharing their knowledge with others.
3. Intellectual Property Lawyer
IP lawyers specialize in protecting intellectual property, particularly in the areas of biotech, pharmaceuticals and technology. They work closely with inventors, entrepreneurs and corporations to secure patents, trademarks and copyrights for their innovative creations. This job requires strong analytical skills and often needs a science background. If you're passionate about innovation and have a keen eye for detail, this could be the perfect legal career for your personality type.
4. Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have a strong sense of justice and enjoy advocating for others, criminal defense law may be the perfect fit for you. As a defense lawyer, you will represent individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. This job requires excellent communication skills and the ability to think quickly on your feet. It can also be emotionally challenging, as you will often be dealing with clients who are facing serious consequences.
5. Human Rights Lawyer
For those who are passionate about social justice and making a positive impact in the world, a career as a human rights lawyer may be the perfect fit. These lawyers work to protect and defend the basic rights and freedoms of individuals across the globe, often taking on cases that involve discrimination, inequality, and violations of human rights. This job requires strong empathy and a deep understanding of global issues.
6. Judicial Law Clerk
If you prefer to stay behind the scenes, a career as a judicial law clerk may be the perfect fit for your personality type. These lawyers work closely with judges, conducting legal research and writing opinions on cases that come before the court. This job requires strong attention to detail and excellent analytical skills.
7. Legal Operations Manager
Legal careers include more than just practicing law. For those who have strong leadership skills and enjoy managing teams, a career as a legal operations manager is worth exploring. These professionals are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a law firm or corporate legal department, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
8. Corporate Lawyer
As a corporate lawyer, you will work with businesses of all sizes, providing legal advice on various matters such as contracts, mergers and acquisitions, and compliance issues. This job requires strong business acumen and the ability to navigate complex legal issues. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for business, this may be the perfect legal career for your personality type.
9. Mediators and Conciliators
Mediators and conciliators are neutral third parties who help resolve disputes between individuals or organizations. They use their legal knowledge to facilitate discussions and find solutions that satisfy both parties. This career is perfect for those with strong communication skills, empathy and a desire to help others.
10. In-house Counsel
Many large corporations have their own legal departments, with in-house counsel providing legal advice and representation to the company. This job requires a deep understanding of the business and industry in which the company operates, as well as strong negotiation and analytical skills. The problem-solving aspect of the job is the most meaningful – you'll be finding a solution to your organization's specific problem in real and tangible ways.
Pursuing a Legal Career
If law is something you're passionate about, it's essential to research and explore different career paths within the legal field to find one that aligns with your skills, interests and motivations. Truity's career aptitude test is a good place to start, as it can help you identify your strengths and interests to narrow down your career options. Law is such a big field that, rest assured, there is a specialty for everyone. Find the one that best suits you and start your journey towards a fulfilling legal career.
