What type of legal environment do I suit?
Once you’ve decided on what area of law you want to work in, it’s then time to decide on what type of legal environment you’d like to work in. Making this decision requires you to think about what you want your career trajectory to be, what type of working environment you would like to work in, and what your long term goals are. Different types of legal jobs can offer you different draws and benefits and while you are not locked into staying in one legal environment for your entire career, it is important to consider what style of work suits you and your career needs and aspirations at any given time.
– Law firms/private practices – Private practice lawyers usually work in law firms and provide legal services to clients on an extensive range of legal issues and areas. Law firms can vary in size from the small and boutique to larger international law firms with over 3000 lawyers. Law firms can either specialise in one practice area, or be more general offering legal services across a broad range of areas of law.
– In-house counsel – The majority of business corporations employ lawyers to work in-house and provide legal services and advise on that particular business’ legal activities.
– Government/Public Service sector – Both state and federal governments recruit lawyers to deal with a range of legal issues. Lawyers who work for the government may work for ministries or government administrations, but can also have advisory or policy officer roles.
– Public Interest Law/Legal Aid – Lawyers who are interested in securing legal rights and legal representation for those who might not be able to afford it, social causes or issues relating to the common good will be interested in this legal area.
Whether you’re looking for law jobs in Sydney or London, variations of legal practice are similar across the globe.
There are a number of different legal jobs available within a number of different areas of legal practice. As a lawyer, there is a broad spectrum of job opportunities and deciding which legal environment and client base suits your interests and goals best is an important part of creating a successful career.
Find legal jobs that will kick start your legal career. Two Steps has legal job listings for all areas of practice. Visit their website.