Everything You Need to Know About Choosing a Career in Law
Law is still one of the few career paths that require constant career progression, especially if you want to be the very best. The best place to start is at the bottom, so you will need to start looking at Law Clerk positions. These positions are offered all over the world and roles and job titles are very similar. This is a great advantage, especially if you want to travel to get your foot in the door. Law Clerks are sometimes referred to as ‘Para-Legals’, and the term is becoming more and more common. Para-Legal is a more international term. In some countries it requires specialist training and careers paths.
Working within any position associated within Law requires a career path. In the main, they offer a mix of ‘on the job’ training as well as professional career development. Law Clerks are a good example of this.
A Law Clerks job is very satisfying and rewarding, but it is important to keep you career path in mind and do not stagnate at this level. You must rise through the ranks if you want to take the leap into the work of a Legal Executive.
Your career path need not stop at Legal Executive. It is advised that you spend time gaining the relevant experience at this level before studying further. At the tertiary level, you can go on and become a Barrister or Solicitor, which is the top of the tree. At this level, you can choose to join a partnership or firm, or set your very own up. The potential to become your own boss is very appealing to those studying law.
There are many elements of Law that you may want to specialise within. It is important that throughout your career path, you note what your strengths and weaknesses are. It is also essential that you study what you love.
One area of study that you may already be familiar with is the Corporations Act. You can buy corporations act from Lexis Nexis online if you want to find out more for yourself.
The Right Stuff
There are a number of things employers look for when recruiting for any position within a law firm. A great appearance, together with a positive attitude can go a long way. A willingness to learn is also a must.
During any interview, an employer will take into account your nerves. Everyone gets nervous. It is very important that you demonstrate a ‘can-do’ attitude and exceptional communication skills. Communication is key to everything in Law.
Everyone has to start somewhere, so expect to get a large share of general administration duties when you first start. At this point, you should remember that you have a ‘foot in the door.’ Not everyone gets a chance like this. It is essential that you comprehend that even the smallest tasks are important to both the firm and its clients. Posting the mail on time may seem insignificant to you, but to the clients it means everything.
A career in Law is as much about your ambition and attitude as it is your education and professional development. Both must go hand-in-hand if you are to achieve your career goals.
