If you are considering changing careers, it is a good idea to first identify your likes and dislikes. If you are unhappy about the law practice itself, you can make a list. Next, think about ways you can work within your chosen profession.
The possibility of changing careers as a lawyer
If you are a lawyer and would like to change careers, there are many things you need to consider. Consider your work schedule. Many lawyers experience work-life conflict. Fortunately, lateral moves offer a solution. There are many careers where you can apply your law degree.
You might want to list your likes and dislikes before you make a decision about moving. A list can help you decide what type of work you enjoy and what career path you should take. A list can also help you find an alternative to practicing law.
Find a new job
There are many options for attorneys looking to transition from law practice to a new career. A group like the NALP can provide information and support on different career options. You can also find a complete list of websites and stories about successful lawyers who have made this transition. They also publish information on non-law firms positions, such as business, education and government.
Although it can be difficult, many lawyers who want to pursue a career change may not necessarily need to leave their law firm. Many lawyers find it difficult leaving their current law firm to seek a career that allows them to spend more time with their families and improves their quality of living. Finding a new job as a lawyer requires that you remain open-minded and look at all options.
A new job
If you are a lawyer considering a job change, it is important to weigh the pros & cons of any new job. One example is a job as contract administrator at a Florida-based real estate company. This will provide you with a different pay package, different work-life balance, advancement opportunities, and a higher salary.
For lawyers looking to make a career change, there are many resources available online. While many resources are focused on finding a first job as a lawyer, others focus on how to transition to a more rewarding role. Maria Stein and Wendy Werner, legal career coaches, have extensive knowledge in helping lawyers find new positions. Maria Stein, assistant dean of MSU Law’s College of Law has spent many decades perfecting the art of creative career planning.
Avoiding burnout
Lawyers are prone to burnout. Lawyers may be happy with their career, but they can easily lose sight about what makes it meaningful. It is important that you recognize signs and symptoms of burnout so that you can take steps to avoid them. Change your career, area of practice, or profession to do this. Even though this may not be possible for all lawyers, it is possible to make positive changes in your mind.
One of the first signs of burnout is feeling short-tempered and irritable. Your body releases adrenaline which triggers stress response. However, too much adrenaline upsets your body's chemistry and puts you into a survival mode. If you are feeling this way, it's time to take a break and evaluate how you run your practice.