There are hundreds of legal career options from lawyers and judges to secretaries and consultants. A legal career is intellectually challenging, personally fulfilling and can be financially rewarding.
Who can I work for?
Opportunities are available in private practices, the public sector plus in-house, in industry and commerce.
Where and when can I work?
Normal office hours apply; however the nature of the work can require overtime. Many solicitors and barristers, particularly early in their career, frequently have to work long, unsociable hours involving evenings and weekends.
What can I earn?
The scope is vast, starting from around £14,000 for ancillary staff through to £75,000- plus for barristers. Salary progression will vary depending on location, size and specialist area of who you work for.
What are the benefits?
There is the potential for high earnings as a barrister or a solicitor and you can specialise in areas that are of significant importance to you, making a career in the legal profession potentially very fulfilling.
Are there chances of promotion?
There are a vast number of opportunities, whether you choose a career in an ancillary post or as a practicing legal professional. However, you may be required to undertake further training or hold a specific qualification in order to progress.
What will I be responsible for?
Key areas of practice include banking, finance and property, insolvency, shipping, insurance, family and employment law.
Do I need any experience?
A law degree or equivalent is essential for those wishing to practice law and high academic performance is important.
For paralegals, agencies often require six months' relevant work experience in addition to experience in administration, document management and research.
What attributes are needed?
Employers are looking for candidates that show an interest in their kind of law, commercial awareness, good people skills, attention to detail and analytical skills, research and writing skills plus debating or public speaking experience if you want to be a barrister.