Legal Practice Areas

Choose business law practice areas if you wish to work with companies Companies large and small need lawyers to help them conduct their business within the realm of the law. In most cases, corporate law does not involve litigation. Many lawyers spend their time reviewing contracts and advising companies on the paperwork they need to get off the ground.

I recommend:  Many lawyers choose corporate law because it tends to offer higher paychecks than other legal areas. If this is one of the legal areas of practice that interests you, consider joining the Association of Corporate Counsel. If you prefer to focus on labor and employment law, join the labor section at the American Bar Association.

Consider public interest areas of legal practice to help people Many people are afraid when they find themselves in legal trouble. They often don't have the money necessary to hire a good attorney. When you work as a public interest lawyer, you are able to help these people out.

I recommend:  New immigrants often need help understanding American laws. Become an immigration attorney and join the American Immigration Lawyers Association to help them learn the ways of our country. Alternatively, consider working in family law. Meet other family lawyers at the American Bar Association's Section on Family Law.

Start a private practice that specializes in your favorite law practice areas A private practice can be a very lucrative way to establish your career as a lawyer. Make sure that you choose one of the legal practice areas that people need in your area. For example, you would probably do better practicing agricultural law in Iowa rather than Boston.

I recommend:  People need tax lawyers and real estate lawyers in just about every area of the country. Let potential clients find you through Real Estate Laywers.com. Or join other tax lawyers at the Section on Tax Law.