4 Careers to Consider Pursuing Legal Field


Career opportunities in the legal field exist beyond an attorney. With the litigious nature of society, support personal are crucial to determining the outcome of a case. Those with an interest in the law can find an exciting career with one of these four careers in the legal field.

Legal Investigator
A legal investigator examines claims and gathers evidence for attorneys to use at trial or as evidence for a settlement. Depending upon the attorney, a legal investigator also examines current case law to save attorneys time from research. A formal background or education is not necessary, but applicants will increase their chances of employment with previous work experience in the legal field and with certifications. The National Association of Legal Investigators offers board certification and trainings.

Paralegal
Paralegals complete much of the paperwork and client interaction within a case. Paralegals draft complaints, interrogatories and legal briefs as well as maintain the calendar to insure an attorney meets deadlines. Many paralegals find a certificate or associate degree helpful to begin their career. These programs teach prospective paralegals legal terminology and state specific formatting for legal documents. A
master’s degree in paralegal studies includes actual law courses for specific areas. This degree increases earning potential and expands job qualifications to top-level federal positions.

Jury Consultant
Jury selection has the potential to alter the decision of a case, and attorneys need qualified jury consultants to ascertain the demographics a defendant needs to improve the chances of a positive outcome. Jury consultants use research and psychological profiles to help attorneys elicit specific emotional reactions for the jury. A degree that involves human behavior, such as psychology, communication or criminal justice with a concentration in behavior provide the educational background that jury consultants need to assess reactions. Some jury consultants also have a dual degree in law or work experience as a trial assistant.

Mediator
Many attorneys and companies prefer to settle cases out of court to reduce legal fees, which often requires the use of a mediator. Mediators settle legal disputes by examining both sides of the case and determining if any side is at fault as well as applicable restitution. An advanced degree in law or similar concentration, such as conflict resolution, meets many state requirements for this position. Some mediators also gain exposure to the field through a training or licensure process in addition to a formal education process.

A career in the legal field requires an education as well as a strong work ethic. These jobs can require long hours and meticulous communication skills; however, these jobs are essential to the criminal justice system.


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