If Not a Lawyer? Part 1

What do I do with a law degree?

Not all law students aspire to become lawyers. If you're passionate about the law but not a lawyer’s path, you’re in the right place. We've compiled a range of roles — within, around, and beyond the legal sector — for those wanting to explore alternative options.

1.         Paralegal

Paralegals are often exposed to numerous areas of law, rather than one speciality. For instance, you’ll get to draft documents, conduct legal research, interview clients or witnesses, and manage casework. Some of the differences are that, as a paralegal, you cannot give legal advice or represent clients and that you work under the supervision of barristers and solicitors.

·       There is no standardised route to becoming a paralegal, as it is not a regulated profession. Instead, law students with legal work experience may apply for the role.

·       Note that membership with the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP) or the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) makes your applications even stronger!

·       CILEX also provides a pathway to become a regulated legal professional if you want to progress further in law.

·       Salary may vary depending on experience and the size of the firm, but according to Prospects, on average, it may range from £25,000 to £30,000 per annum at a graduate level.

2.         Journalism

For everyone who lives typing, talking, and discussing, journalism is the perfect choice. Having a law degree will give you a leg up when it comes to understanding the complex legal-technical aspects of many news stories. As a law graduate, you may specialise in investigative, legal, or political journalism. Your primary skills will be writing, critical thinking, research, and digital communication—all of which are valuable and transferable.

·       The route is likely through a graduate scheme and journalism traineeships which will allow you to learn whether the environment suits you.

·       You can also obtain a postgrad journalism qualification, which is offered at UoM!

·       According to prospects, a journalist’s starter salary often ranges around £15,000 per annum.

3.         Professor/Academic

The academic route is a challenging one and requires dedication. After obtaining your undergrad, the common choice is to pursue a master's degree, which will make you a more competitive PhD candidate.

You can then go on to obtain a PhD, where you can become a TA or tutor for experience! Your next steps will be Postdoctoral Research, where you can further develop your expertise and professional network. From there, applying to lectureship positions and keep moving forward to a professorship through consistent excellence in your field.

·       Per the National Careers Service, your starter salary as a lecturer will be around £37,000.

·       Summarily, becoming a professor is likely to take over a decade, which is one of the reasons why it can be challenging

Remain optimistic about your opportunities; there are endless options available to you, law-related and not!