By Shirin Charlize Adan
This article is written in conjunction with the IE Law Society.Opportunities to apply legal knowledge within politics, business, and crime
“I don’t know what to do now.” If this thought has ever crossed your mind, you’re not alone. This uncertainty after graduation will probably linger in the minds of many of us. Even now, still having maybe three or four years ahead, the countless possibilities can feel more like a wall, more so than an open door.
If your interests extend beyond the subjects you’re studying, it can be even more daunting. Whether you’re pursuing a single law degree or a dual degree, remember that your options are far from limited.
A legal education opens doors to diverse career paths beyond the traditional roles of lawyer, judge, or prosecutor. From policy advising and advocacy to roles in business, technology, and social impact, there are countless ways to apply your skills and follow your passions.
Politics
One of the many opportunities available after a legal education is a career in politics. A legal background is highly valued in various political roles, and one standout option is becoming a diplomatic service advisor. Diplomatic service advisors play an essential role in managing a country’s foreign affairs, and many diplomats have a law background due to the skills they provide in negotiation, policy analysis, and conflict resolution.
The primary duties of a diplomatic service advisor revolve around negotiating treaties, advising government officials on international policy matters, and working to resolve diplomatic conflicts. For this job, it is highly recommended that you have a good understanding of global politics and affairs and know multiple languages. However, the latter is not a requirement. This opens doors to political advising and working in NGOs or playing a role in foreign service.
Becoming a legal or political journalist is another option if you are more of a writer than a negotiator. Legal journalists research, investigate, and analyze current legal matters, attend court proceedings, interview lawyers and judges, and analyze legal documents to gather information for a good story. And guess what! A journalism degree is not needed.
However, the more experience you have in a law firm, the higher the chances of becoming a legal journalist. Building a strong network within the legal community can also open doors, as many legal journalists rely on relationships with legal professionals to break exclusive stories. Additionally, communicating complex legal concepts in an accessible and engaging manner is key to success in this field.
Crime
Ever wanted to feel like being in a movie such as “White Collar” or “The Wolf of Wall Street”? Becoming an anti-money laundering specialist could be your chance to enter a thrilling, high-stakes world. Although becoming an AMLS, one requirement is to pass the CAMS certification exam, which will also give better job opportunities and higher wages.
The duties of an AMLS include conducting investigations of potential money laundering or fraud, developing anti-money laundering initiatives, reviewing transaction data to detect and support investigations, organizing documentation and evidence for criminal prosecution, and presenting evidence to law enforcement.
If you want to go more in the direction of corruption, then the anti-corruption advisor is perfect. In this career, identifying and responding to corruption whilst implementing new anti-corruption measures will be the main tasks of an anti-corruption advisor. This is by formulating and designing anti-corruption strategies and advising on existing rules and regulations. Usually, anti-corruption advisors are included in many projects and initiatives to reduce corruption. They often work closely with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies to ensure the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts.
Social
Passionate about addressing societal inequalities? Then, a career as a social justice advocate is ideal. In this role, understanding and taking action on pressing social issues like gender inequality, reproductive rights, education, healthcare, and LGBTQ+ rights are central to the work.
Social justice advocates often work in diverse environments, from NGOs and trade unions to community-based organizations, supporting affected communities through legal aid, advice, and resources. Their work also involves conducting in-depth research to uncover and address inequalities while holding individuals and institutions accountable for upholding human rights and equity.
Advocates frequently collaborate with other organizations, government bodies, and communities to ensure lasting change and foster a more just society. Similar careers as human rights advocates and legal advisors allow for similar duties within NGOs. These roles offer a chance to make a meaningful impact in society while utilizing legal expertise in diverse ways.
Whether working in policy, advocacy, or community support, law students can contribute to shaping a more just and equitable world without necessarily practicing litigation. No matter if one is at the beginning of studying or reaching the end, it is okay to know already what the future holds for you. IE University has Talents & Careers, and it is highly recommended that you get some counseling there. This allows everyone to get different insights and information you wouldn’t have known before, maybe even finding the ideal path. This doesn’t close the door to other opportunities, even when choosing one path. The internet also provides numerous job search platforms and even career quizzes. While it may sound funny, these simple quizzes can often spark new ideas.
Featured image courtesy of Jernigan Law Firm
