by Beverly Aarons
10. September 2009 08:33
With the recent economic crunch, many law firms are slow to hire recent law school graduates. But who says that just because you went to law school that you must practice law? Law jobs are not the only opportunities for recent law school graduates. Having a JD is a very versatile tool for getting your foot in the door in several fields. Let's take a look:
Politics: You may not want to run; but you may want to work with local politicians in your area. Many politicians got their start as lawyers and many of them are looking to work with people who have studied law.
Government Agencies: From law enforcement to a career in the FBI, many positions in the government's various agencies require a law degree.
Law Library/Researcher: There are many law libraries around the country in Universities, law firms and the nation's court systems. Many of them are looking for candidates who have law degrees.
Things you should keep in mind as you search for your non-lawyer job:
Having a law degree sets you apart from the competition; but you must make it clear to possible employers that you truly intend to work in the field your applying for. Many employers fear that a recent law school graduate may use their non-lawyer job as a temporary stopover until they find a "hot lawyer" position; it's your job to convince them otherwise.
Do not make the mistake of assuming that because you have a law degree that the employer should pay you above and beyond what another candidate would be paid. See your law degree as an "extra" benefit that increases your chances of getting the job.