Are you considering going to law school? There’s certainly a lot to think about. From the admissions process to selecting a school, it’s a big decision that requires plenty of thought. But if you’re looking to get a head start on your legal career, a range of pre-law jobs may be worth exploring. These roles provide valuable experience, demonstrate your commitment to the legal field, and could even make you an attractive candidate when you apply to law school. Here are fifteen pre-law jobs to consider.
1. Legal Intern: Legal internships offer an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience and insight into the law. You’ll be exposed to their working environment and learn about law firm culture. Most internships are unpaid, but many offer academic credit in addition to valuable experience.
2. Paralegal: Paralegals are a vital part of the legal process, assisting lawyers with researching, writing, and filing documents. Most paralegals have at least a two-year degree in paralegal studies, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
3. Legal Secretary: Legal secretaries are responsible for providing administrative support to attorneys. Typical duties include scheduling appointments, filing documents, and organizing files. Many legal secretaries have a two-year degree in legal secretarial studies, but some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
4. Legal Research Assistant: Legal research assistants are responsible for researching legal documents and cases to aid lawyers in their work. Many legal research assistants have a degree in paralegal studies or legal research, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
5. Court Reporter: Court reporters are responsible for transcribing court proceedings, from depositions and trials to hearings and other legal proceedings. Most court reporters have a degree in court reporting, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
6. Title Examiner: Title examiners are responsible for researching and reviewing title documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Most title examiners have a degree in paralegal studies, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
7. Law Clerk: Law clerks are responsible for researching and analyzing legal proceedings, preparing documents, and drafting legal briefs. Most law clerks have a degree in law or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
8. Legal Assistant: Legal assistants are responsible for providing administrative support to lawyers and other legal professionals, such as scheduling appointments and organizing files. Most legal assistants have a degree in paralegal studies, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
9. File Clerk: File clerks are responsible for organizing and maintaining legal documents, such as court filings and other documents. Most file clerks have a degree in paralegal studies, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
10. Court Administrator: Court administrators are responsible for managing and administrating court systems. They handle tasks such as scheduling hearings, preparing documents, and overseeing court proceedings. Most court administrators have a degree in law or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
11. Court Interpreter: Court interpreters are responsible for interpreting court proceedings for those who do not speak the language of the court. Most court interpreters have a degree in law or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
12. Legal Aid: Legal aid professionals are responsible for providing legal advice and assistance to those who cannot afford it. Most legal aid professionals have a degree in law or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
13. Investigator: Investigators are responsible for gathering evidence and conducting interviews to assist lawyers in the preparation of their cases. Most investigators have a degree in criminal justice or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
14. Title Agent: Title agents are responsible for researching and examining title documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Most title agents have a degree in paralegal studies, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
15. Law Firm Administrator: Law firm administrators are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a law firm. Typical duties include bookkeeping, office management, and overseeing staff. Most law firm administrators have a degree in law or a related field, though some firms may accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent.
