Types Of Law Jobs

Many lawyers go to law school because they want to change the world for the better. One way to have an impact on your community is to work for the government. While it’s tempting to go after a high-paying job at a law firm, those jobs can be hard to find.

Many big firm lawyers are unsatisfied with the careers not because their job is bad but because it’s not the right fit for them. If you’re in this position, a career change to public service might help you rekindle your passion for the law.

There are a variety of career options for lawyers at governments to serve in both legal and non-legal positions.

Legal careers in government

Between the Department of Justice and court system, there are many roles for lawyers in government. Judges, prosecutors, and public defenders come to mind first. While the most obvious place to look for government law jobs is the courthouse, assistant attorney generals can do anything from litigation to advisory roles, according to a lawyer following this career path in Oregon.

Alternative careers for lawyers

Beyond the courthouse, the most visible role for lawyers in government is that of elected officials. Lawyers can have a direct impact on public policy by running for office-from local city council positions to president of the United States.

But all those elected officials also need staff and advisors, as well, and these make excellent opportunities for lawyers. During election season, you may be using your ability to make a case-for a candidate. Working for a campaign also opens opportunities after election season is over.

Working on Capitol Hill

Lawyers serve in both legislative and investigative roles on Capitol Hill. Not all of these positions require a law degree, but a lawyer’s ability to research, understand and craft policy can help you succeed in legislative roles. Lawyers tend to serve on the staffs of committees, though some also work for members.

As an investigator, lawyers can be a part of the news and make headlines. A lawyer who investigated the Iran Contra Scandal in the 1980s said this was the most exciting part of working on Capitol Hill for him.

Career options for lawyers

You may have to work up to Capitol Hill jobs, but there are similar positions on the state and local levels. Industry groups, associations and advocacy organizations also hire lawyers to lobby the government. I talked to one lawyer who even lobbied the state and federal government on behalf of her city government.

There are many career options for lawyers in government. Your legal skills and knowledge of the political system will allow you to have an impact on your community or country while having a fulfilling career.…

Best Tips On How To Get Into Law School

Admission into law school happens to be a weighty process that comprehensively assesses your actual commitment as an undergraduate student. Below are some vital tips on how to get into law school in a convenient and stress-free manner.

Select the very best undergraduate major

Unlike medical school, joining law school does not necessitate any particular prerequisite. This naturally makes the major selection process rather challenging. As such, always settle for a major that has a high level of acceptance. For instance, majors in philosophy, economics and journalism all have very good acceptance rates. Also, a major that focuses on reading, critical thinking and excellent writing skills can be a good foundation for law school.

Always focus on your GPA as obtaining the very best grades is extremely necessary to make a strong application. Currently, the median GPA for law school admittance stands at 3.42. Nevertheless, all higher-tier schools’ requirements are considerably steeper. With Yale standing at 3.9, Harvard 3.89 and Stanford 3.85.

Work on your grades from the very start. Attend classes on a regular basis, set sufficient time for study, and should you need help, enlist the services of a good tutor. While at the undergraduate level, take your time to incorporate extracurricular activities into your schedule. This can be crucial in portraying yourself as an all-rounded law school candidate.

Take an internship

Enrolling on an internship program can help you get fully acquainted with life in a law firm or any other related business establishment. It will provide you with invaluable skills, while also enabling you to build a rapport with professional lawyers, whose guidance can be beneficial.

Take the LSAT examination

The law school admission test (LSAT) is a standardized exam, which will evaluate your critical thinking, reasoning, reading comprehension and analytic skills. It is offered four times each year on the months of February, June, October and December at chosen testing centers globally. The LSAT exam comprises of 35 minute sections of multiple-choice questions along with a 35 minute timed writing sample. You can register for this test online at its official website. After successfully registering for the LSAT, take time to prepare for it. You can do this by studying on your own or opt for a tutoring service that will help you get ready.

Apply for law school

The last step of how to get into law school after passing the LSAT is to apply for the specific school you wish to join. Law school is a big commitment, so always try to select a school that best suits your career objectives. For example, if you wish to practice criminal, family or perhaps corporate law, apply to schools, which specialize in that given field. The number of schools you can apply for, largely depends on your LSAT score. As a general rule, apply to 2 – 4 schools where your score falls at the 25th percentile. 3 – 5 schools where your score falls in the midrange of permissible applicants, and 2 schools where your score is at the 75th percentile.…