Finding a career path that you want to purs
If you’re looking to advance your qualifications in law but are not so sure what path you want to follow, luckily for you, there is a wide array of options to choose from. Not all of us are entirely set on a career path from the start of our studies, and many do end up changing careers down the track. Does this sound like you? If so, then maybe studying a JD degree online could be a good option, as this post-graduate degree will set you up for success in multiple ways.
A Juris Doctor degree can lead to many different career opportunities with a wide range of salaries. In this article, we will outline what you can do with a Juris Doctor degree, the different career paths, and give you an idea of what to expect in terms of salary. We will also provide a list of resources so that you can learn more about each position. So, whether you are just starting law school or are already well into your education, read on for information about your future career potential.
What Can You Do With a Juris Doctor Degree?
Luckily there is a whole lot you can do when you receive your Juris Doctor qualification, there are multiple career paths you can take depending on your preferences. This is because the Juris Doctor degree is well sought after in the field and demonstrates that you have a solid knowledge of legal principles with the capacity to bring this knowledge into the real world.
#1. Lawyer
One of the most obvious career choices for someone with a Juris Doctor degree is to become a lawyer. Lawyers represent clients in both criminal and civil cases and work to ensure that their rights are protected. In order to become a lawyer, individuals must pass the bar exam, which is a test that assesses their knowledge of the law.
There are many different types of lawyers, each with its own area of specialty. Some lawyers may specialize in environmental law, while others may work in the field of family law. The type of lawyer you become will likely be determined by your interests and experiences.
The salary of a lawyer can vary depending on their specialization, experience, and location. However, the median annual salary for lawyers is around $120,000 annually.
#2. Judge
Another career option for individuals with a Juris Doctor degree is to become a judge. Judges preside over court proceedings and are responsible for ensuring that the law is followed. In order to become a judge, individuals must first be elected or appointed to the position.
The salary of a judge can vary depending on their experience and location. But you can expect to earn around $66,000 to $376,000 depending on how many years you’ve spent working in the role.
#3. Law Professor
Individuals with a Juris Doctor degree can also choose to pursue a career as a law professor. Law professors teach courses in various areas of the law and conduct research on legal issues. In order to become a law professor, individuals must have a Juris Doctor degree as well as an advanced degree in law.
The salary of a law professor can vary depending on their experience and location. But you can generally expect anywhere from $60,000 to $80,000 yearly.
#4. Legal Consultant
Legal consultants provide advice and guidance to clients on legal matters. They may work with businesses to ensure compliance with regulations or assist individuals with personal legal matters. In order to become a legal consultant, an individual must have a Juris Doctor degree and experience working in the legal field.
For those pursuing legal consultancy, the salary can vary greatly since there are multiple paths you can pursue as well as different industries. Because of this, you can earn anywhere from $51,100 to $172,000 annually depending on experience.
#5. Paralegal
Paralegals provide support to lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents, and preparing for court hearings. In order to become a paralegal, individuals must have at least an associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in another field along with completing a paralegal certificate program.
If you decide to pursue a career as a paralegal, then you can expect to earn around $77,000 yearly on average with entry positions starting in the $60,000 range.
