Where to Lawyers Work
If you’re considering becoming a lawyer, it’s essential to know where you can find work. Whether the government, large law firms or in-house are your top choices, there are numerous employment options available to you.
Lawyers typically pursue a career at large law firms. Generally, you begin as an associate and eventually progress to become a partner.
Government
Lawyers in government can find a range of jobs. They may serve as prosecuting attorneys or public defenders at both the local and state levels; additionally, they may work in administrative agencies, the judicial system and executive branch institutions as staff or research assistants.
Attorneys working for the federal government can be employed in either civil or criminal cases in the judicial branch. Alternatively, they could work at an administrative agency or office of executive or legislative branches of government, creating laws, offering advice and representing them.
Some government lawyers specialize in certain fields of the law, such as labor or environmental concerns. On the other hand, other government attorneys handle a broad range of legal problems that impact society as a whole.
When applying for a job in government, it’s essential to take into account both the type of work you want to do and your desired level of responsibility. Those interested in serving the public interest should look into public service organizations and their pro bono opportunities as well as volunteer positions with nonprofits.
While in law school, students can participate in internships or externships with government offices. These experiences provide invaluable experience and prepare them for future employment opportunities.
Though some attorneys prefer the private sector, many share a passion for public service and are drawn to government jobs because of the positive impact they can have on communities. Stacie Pavao ’18 interned at Massachusetts Attorney General’s Charities Division before attending law school and says she was thrilled that this career allowed her to do what she loved while also gaining valuable real-world experience.
After graduating, you can start looking for entry-level government positions that require a JD degree. These positions may be found through government job websites or direct contact with the department you are interested in. It is essential to remember that government departments make their own hiring decisions so it’s essential to check with each one before applying for a position.
Private/Nonprofit
If you are interested in working in the private/nonprofit sector, you may be searching for a legal job that allows you to help people while earning income. Job postings in these fields can be found at law firms, government agencies, public defender offices and private public interest companies.
The nonprofit sector is a dynamic and complex field with numerous challenges that must be tackled. Nonprofits must establish and maintain legal status under tax exemption laws and meet state regulations in order to offer services to the public without fear of litigation or losing their charitable status.
No matter the size or age of your organization, finding a lawyer who specializes in the legal issues specific to your industry is key. For instance, if you own a tech business, look for someone experienced with technology licensing and entertainment law.
Furthermore, you should hire a lawyer with experience successfully navigating the obstacles facing your nonprofit. Verify their reputation by checking for any disciplinary actions or complaints on their file.
Nonprofit lawyers are an invaluable asset to your business, providing advice on all aspects of running a nonprofit organization. They can assist with forming the nonprofit entity, obtaining tax-exempt status from the IRS and complying with laws related to fundraising and operations.
They can assist in crafting a mission statement, setting up a board of directors and selecting the ideal governance structure for your nonprofit organization. Having the right attorney on board is paramount to the long-term success of your nonprofit.
Some of the most experienced nonprofit attorneys work as part of a team, overseeing paralegals and other associates. This setup enables them to efficiently tackle their workload without missing any important developments in your case.
When hiring a lawyer, communication style should be taken into account. Some of the top-rated attorneys communicate regularly with their clients while others may only contact them when there are major developments in the case.
Corporate
Corporate lawyers provide legal guidance to businesses on their various rights, responsibilities and obligations. Often they work for large law firms with a range of practice areas, including litigation.
They represent their clients in court, at board and regulatory meetings, and by providing business advice. Furthermore, they prepare contracts as well as assist with dissolving companies, organizing them for dissolution or creation of new companies.
These professionals possess specialized skills and knowledge that guarantee their clients’ businesses are conducted according to laws and regulations. They must be well-versed in various statutory and policy laws that affect how businesses run, such as contract law, tax law, accounting, securities law, bankruptcy law, intellectual property rights licensing regulations and zoning ordinances.
Corporate lawyers often specialize in project finance, the process of financing large-scale initiatives such as power plants, refineries, pipelines and transportation systems. To do so, the lawyer must first create a legal entity that serves as the foundation of the venture and then negotiate financial agreements with investors.
A successful candidate must possess experience in the corporate sector, as well as excellent communication and negotiation abilities. This type of career demands high levels of attention to detail in a fast-paced setting.
Corporate lawyers have the responsibility of reviewing a company’s business agreements and confirming they adhere to local, state and federal regulations. To provide effective advice for their clients and shareholders alike, corporate lawyers must possess in-depth knowledge of the industry they operate within.
Corporate lawyers often have the task of reviewing employment contracts to ensure they adhere to the employer’s legal policies. In certain instances, these lawyers may even be asked to review a company’s corporate governance documents such as articles of incorporation, bylaws and constitution.
These documents must be updated as necessary to remain compliant with statutory and government policy regulations. It’s critical that a lawyer stays abreast of these developments, since they can have a substantial effect on the company’s operations and financial health.
Gaining entry-level employment as a corporate lawyer requires having experience in corporate law and an accredited law school degree. While bachelor’s degrees are sufficient for most entry-level roles, those with Master of Law (LLM) degrees may stand out more among other candidates. This type of education offers specialized knowledge and insight into specific areas of business law, which could prove advantageous when applying to major law firms.
Employment
Employment lawyers fight to safeguard employees’ rights in the workplace. This includes safeguarding employee safety, equal pay for all workers and adequate working conditions. Furthermore, they guarantee employers adhere to state and federal laws and regulations.
Employment law disputes between employees and employers can be highly contentious and emotionally charged, particularly when they involve wage or hour issues. That is why having a trusted legal adviser on hand when you feel that your employer has violated your rights is so important.
Labor lawyers can assist you with any employment-related disputes, such as wage and hour disputes, discrimination or termination. They are trained in mediation, negotiation and litigation techniques to resolve these matters amicably.
They can assist you if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim or deal with unfair insurance denials. They also represent you if your employer retaliates against you for filing a workers’ comp complaint or reporting discrimination.
Many of these lawyers charge a contingency fee for their services and receive a portion of any damages awarded in settlements or court judgments. The percentage varies by state, but can range anywhere from 5% to 50%.
Some employment lawyers specialize in labor and employment law, while others are generalists who handle all issues related to both unionized and non-union employers. Depending on the firm, employment lawyers may handle matters such as employee contracts, discrimination, harassment, wage/hour disputes, whistleblowing and other laws and regulations that protect employees.
Labor and employment law is an ever-evolving field that requires employers to stay abreast of new regulations. Unfortunately, businesses may find it challenging to stay abreast of all developments and requirements.
Though the job can be challenging, it also offers fascinating and rewarding rewards. Attorneys specializing in this area often express how much joy they get out of helping people.
Furthermore, they find it immensely rewarding to assist their clients in receiving compensation when their rights have been violated!
