Anyone who’s ever watched TV has seen lawyers portrayed as sleazy, self-centred characters who care about nothing but money and winning their case, at any cost to you or your family. It’s easy to see why most people would assume that studying law would be a bad career choice, but the truth couldn’t be more different from the stereotype—and it’s not as glamorous as most television dramas portray it to be! To help you make an informed decision about whether studying law is right for you, here are 10 good reasons why you should study law.
1. To open doors
Once you have a law degree, doors will open to all sorts of career opportunities. Many people with an interest in law enjoy working at large corporations, such as insurance companies and banks. Those who become lawyers might decide to join a firm after graduation. If that’s your plan, it’s important to be choosy about which firm you work for—some firms are more prestigious than others.
2. It’s a great career path
From doctors to high-flying executives, lawyers are found in all sorts of roles in society. So, if you enjoy being a problem solver and have good communication skills, it could be worth thinking about law as a career option. Lawyers also claim some of the highest salaries in the business world, so consider your future financial prospects too. Are you planning on starting a family anytime soon? If so, your average yearly salary will provide a solid base for any children you hope to support at home.
3. Learn how the law affects society
Although many of us don’t understand it, the law touches every aspect of our lives. When we go to work or school, interact with family and friends, watch television or use our mobile phones, we’re interacting with the law. And, at some point in life—buying a house, starting a business—we’ll probably need legal help. Everyone needs to know how the law affects them so they can make better decisions about their lives and careers.
4. Become an advocate for your community
If you're passionate about what you do, consider becoming an advocate for your community. No one is better equipped to speak on behalf of your neighbourhood or town than someone who lives there and knows it inside out.
5. Build up your resume and develop transferable skills
Students planning to study law should begin working on their resume early in high school and build it up as they continue with their education. This gives you plenty of time to develop vital skills like research, writing, and communication—all transferable skills that will help you succeed in your future career.
6. Legal jobs are often high paying
Lawyers are some of, if not the highest-paid professionals in the business. They claim that they have a high level of responsibility in their company and that they can make plenty of money because of it. Becoming a lawyer is one way to set yourself up for success and prosperity.
7. Lawsuits provide interesting stories and experiences to share with future employers
In addition to learning how to write legal documents, you’ll learn a lot about laws and lawsuits. These experiences will give you stories to share with future employers. Being able to discuss these stories shows that you have passion for your work, which is always a good thing when it comes time for a job interview.
8. Work directly with people
One of the biggest draws to law is that you get to work directly with people. Whether it’s meeting with clients, working on a trial, or giving advice, when you study law, you do more than just sit in an office and write. When you practice law—and any other profession—you are constantly interacting with people who need your help.
9. Enjoy time off in the summertime if you are self-employed
If you're self-employed, summer is a great time to catch up on work. Getting work done during your off-hours gives you more free time in your day and ensures that your business grows faster. Since June isn't too late to start a law practice, now is a good time to claim your position as one of many lawyers who starts their business after college.
10. Check out free online legal classes
Just as you can take free online courses in almost any subject, there are also many free options to get an introduction to law. The great thing about learning about law for free is that you can even claim it on your taxes! Some popular legal classes include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Business Law, and Ethics in American Government.
Finally, this is why you should consider studying law
Law is a really good career choice. If you want to do public service, the law is a great avenue for that, as you can do pro bono work or choose to represent non-profits and people who cannot afford legal services otherwise. Some states require their lawyers to do pro bono work if they wish to continue practising law. There are also jobs outside of traditional law practice as well.
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