A law degree is one of the most versatile qualifications you can earn. While many graduates go on to practice as attorneys, that’s far from the only option. The legal profession today extends beyond the courtroom, reaching into business, government, academia, and even industries like technology and media.
So if you’re asking, “what jobs can you get with a law degree?” the answer is: more than you might think. From becoming a trial lawyer or judge to stepping into roles like compliance officer, consultant, policy analyst, or even entrepreneur, law graduates have a broad spectrum of choices.
This article breaks down traditional legal jobs, corporate opportunities, government service roles, and non-traditional careers available to law graduates, with insights into salary ranges, demand, and what skills you’ll need to succeed.
Traditional Legal Careers
Practicing Attorney
The most common path for law graduates is becoming a licensed attorney. After passing the bar exam, you can specialize in areas such as corporate law, family law, criminal defense, or intellectual property. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), the median annual wage for lawyers is around $150,500, though salaries vary widely depending on practice area, firm size, and geography.
Judge or Magistrate
With years of legal experience, some lawyers transition into roles as judges. Judges oversee court proceedings, interpret laws, and ensure fair trials. These positions require significant experience, and salaries range from $130,000 to $200,000 depending on jurisdiction.
Prosecutor or Public Defender
Prosecutors represent the government in criminal cases, while public defenders represent defendants who cannot afford private attorneys. These careers are demanding but can be rewarding for those drawn to criminal justice and public service.
Corporate and Business Roles
A law degree opens doors to careers in the corporate world where legal knowledge is essential for managing risk and ensuring compliance.
In-House Counsel
Companies often hire lawyers to work internally, advising on contracts, employment law, mergers, intellectual property, and more. In-house roles typically pay between $120,000 and $200,000 annually, with higher salaries at large corporations.
Compliance Officer
Compliance professionals ensure companies follow laws and regulations in areas like finance, healthcare, and data privacy. Salaries often range from $90,000 to $150,000. With the growth of data protection and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, demand for compliance roles is rising in 2025.
Human Resources Legal Advisor
HR teams value law graduates for their expertise in employment law, contracts, and workplace regulations. While some HR roles do not require a JD, having one can be a major advantage.
Government and Public Service Careers
Law graduates often pursue meaningful careers in government, shaping policy, enforcing laws, or engaging in diplomacy.
Policy Analyst or Legislative Counsel
Lawyers working in policy research or as legislative aides draft bills, analyze regulations, and provide legal insights for lawmakers. Salaries typically range from $70,000 to $120,000.
Diplomatic and International Roles
With global legal systems becoming more interconnected, law graduates sometimes work in international organizations, NGOs, or diplomatic posts where negotiation and treaty expertise is crucial.
Administrative Law Careers
Government agencies at the federal, state, or local level employ law graduates as agency counsels, adjudicators, or administrative judges.
Academic and Research Opportunities
A law degree can also lead to careers in academia, teaching, or legal scholarship.
Law Professor
Professors teach law students, publish research, and sometimes consult on major cases. Salaries vary widely, often between $90,000 and $180,000.
Legal Researcher or Think Tank Analyst
Policy institutes, non-profits, and international organizations often hire law graduates as researchers. These roles are ideal for those who enjoy analyzing legal issues without the adversarial nature of courtroom litigation.
Alternative and Non-Traditional Careers
Not every law graduate wants to practice law. Fortunately, the skills gained from law school—critical thinking, research, writing, and negotiation—translate into many other fields.
Consulting
Management consulting firms value law graduates for their ability to analyze complex problems and design solutions. These roles often pay six figures and offer diverse industry exposure.
Legal Technology Careers
With the rise of AI and digital transformation, legal tech companies need experts who understand both law and technology. These roles may involve product development, compliance strategy, or legal operations.
Journalism and Media
Some law graduates become legal analysts, reporters, or authors, interpreting legal issues for the public. Their ability to simplify complex issues makes them valuable in media and publishing.
Entrepreneurship
Lawyers with business acumen sometimes start their own firms, consulting practices, or even businesses outside of law. The adaptability of legal training means many go on to launch successful ventures.
In the same way people sometimes wonder about surprising stories in other fields—such as whether the Was the Mississippi River really held a massive catfish—law graduates may be surprised at how far a JD can take them outside the courtroom.
Salary Insights Across Paths
Lawyer salaries are among the highest for JD holders, often ranging from $90,000 to over $200,000. Judges and senior government officials also earn high salaries, though often less than top corporate lawyers. Non-traditional paths such as consulting or legal tech may pay $100,000 to $150,000, with growth potential as industries expand. Journalism and academia generally pay less but can provide fulfillment for those seeking impact over income.
Tips for Maximizing Career Opportunities with a Law Degree
- Network early and often through internships, clerkships, and bar associations.
- Explore specializations in high-demand fields like data privacy, health law, and intellectual property.
- Consider certifications in compliance, project management, or technology to stand out.
- Stay open to alternative careers that leverage your skills outside of traditional practice.
- Research market trends—remote and hybrid opportunities are growing, especially in 2025.
Conclusion
So, what jobs can you get with a law degree? Beyond becoming a practicing lawyer, the possibilities are vast. Traditional roles like attorney, judge, or prosecutor remain strong options. Corporate paths such as compliance officer or in-house counsel are increasingly in demand. Government careers, from policy analyst to diplomat, allow graduates to shape law and policy. Academia, consulting, journalism, and entrepreneurship provide meaningful alternatives outside the courtroom.
A law degree is not just a ticket to one profession—it’s a foundation that unlocks diverse career opportunities across industries. Whether you dream of advocating in court, shaping policy, or building something entirely new, the skills gained in law school can help you get there.
FAQ’s
Do you need to pass the bar for all jobs with a law degree?
No. Many roles in compliance, consulting, policy, and business value a law degree without requiring bar admission.
Can you work in business with a law degree?
Yes. Many graduates become executives, consultants, or corporate advisors, leveraging their legal training in business contexts.
Is a law degree still worth it in 2025?
Yes, but only if you use it strategically. With rising demand in compliance, legal tech, and global policy, a JD opens many doors beyond traditional lawyering.
