Dear Julie, what are the best alternative career paths for lawyers?

It used to be that lawyers were qualified for one thing: Practicing law. Back in the olden days, that was just fine – as there weren’t many JDs seeking to leave the profession. Why not? Because being a lawyer carried with it high prestige, it provided job security and financial reward. Even for those who contemplated an exit, the money often produced golden handcuffs that made it virtually impossible to hit the career reset button.

It’s a different story today. The corporate world and legal profession have changed considerably and an increasing number of lawyers seek to transition out of law. In addition, alternative careers that were once untouchable are now within reach. With this said, making a successful switch requires more than just a desire to leave the profession. It requires self-awareness, direction, knowledge, a strategy…and courage.

So for those contemplating such a change, I recommend that you gain the following insight before embarking on the journey to new frontiers: Why do you want to leave the law…specifically? What profession interests you and what is appealing about it? What do you know about this profession? How will you learn more? Do your skills align with the profession’s requirements? If not, are you willing to go back to school or start in an entry-level position? Take a pay cut? If you don’t know what profession interests you, are you aware of what your likes/dislikes are for your next work culture, colleagues and day-to-day work experience? How much money do you need to make? Are you comfortable giving up the title of “lawyer”? What are your fears in this process?

For some lawyers, the added challenge of not knowing what alternative career options exist is stressful and leaves them feeling overwhelmed. For those of you identifying with this constituency, worry not. Below is a list of careers where reformed lawyers have found happy homes:

  • Entrepreneur. Contrary to popular belief, not all lawyers are risk averse. Those who are more at ease with chance, business driven and want to build a company head in this direction. Many of them have innovative ideas that relate to the legal profession and how to make it better.
  • Sales. The best opportunities for lawyers are in companies that sell products or services to law firms and/or corporate legal departments. A complete industry switch will require an entry-level start.
  • Marketing. Law firms make the most natural homes for lawyers interested in marketing. A corporate role will require retooling, education and a fresh start.
  • Business/Corporate Development. These roles exist in law firms and companies. On the corporate side, existing in house corporate lawyers are best positioned to make this transition. This role in law firms functions differently and accommodates lawyers with diverse practice backgrounds.
  • Blogger. If you love writing and have something interesting to say, a blog could be a viable avenue to do what you love and make some money.
  • Legal Recruiter. Opportunity exists in (1) Recruiting firms/agencies, (2) Companies: recruiting in house on the company side; and (3) Law firms: in roles such as recruiting managers and coordinators. A JD is not required for this profession, but can provide competitive advantages to those who possess the advanced degree.
  • Real Estate Agent. A transaction background can come in handy (especially in real estate), but any lawyer with the right personality and skills can excel in this profession. License required.
  • Career Coach. If you have the knack…take classes, get certified and The Doctor Is In.
  • Human Resources. Many employment attorneys transition to senior HR roles. Lawyers in other practice areas shift over too, but it’s usually in a recruiting capacity.
  • Law Firm Executive (CEO, COO, CFO). Typically assumed by current law firm partners who wish to aid in running the firm. Not an associate option.
  • Nonprofit. These positions are in high demand so competition is stiff. But it’s a viable path for an unhappy attorney.
  • Politics. The law can be quite intertwined with the complex machine that is known as politics. And many of today’s most famous politicians are also…lawyers. Whether it is on a local, state or national level, the political stage is one where many lawyers feel at home and can excel.
  • Most Anything Else If You Are Willing To Start Over. You are never too old…But a major shift can take time, money, hard work and patience. If you are willing, even the most off-the-wall career goal can be achieved. So if you possess all of the variable and qualities above, go for it!

Change is never easy and leaving the law can be even more difficult. But Law’s appeal has diminished from the days of old and today’s lawyers seek greater career satisfaction. Consequently, many are turning – and transitioning to alternative careers to be happy and fulfilled…And happy and fulfilled they tend to be.