You thought studying the law meant you had to be a solicitor or barrister? Think again!

In today's blog, we share ten unusual careers routes you could choose instead.

1. Space lawyer

It would be worth qualifying as a space lawyer for the job title alone! In reality, a space lawyer’s job involves solving complex problems (for example, liability for damage to a satellite), and utilising negotiating skills as well as knowledge of commercial and contract law. Space law is very much an international field, so a working knowledge of another language is a bonus.

Fields of study: International public law, Contract law, Commercial law

2. Media lawyer

If you dream of working in the glamorous world of entertainment, media lawyer could be the perfect role. Advising on issues in respect of the music industry, film and television, sport and so on requires a strong and detailed knowledge of contract law and copyright law, as well as great business acumen, commercial awareness and negotiating skills. 

Fields of study: Contract law, Intellectual Property (IP) law, Commercial law

3. IP lawyer

Intellectual property encompasses all manner of ‘idea ownership’ from song lyrics to pharmaceuticals. A scientific or technological background may mean you are suited to working in patent law, which is highly technical and complex. Similarly you may be interested in publishing or media production. IP lawyers’ work is varied and interesting, and is suited to detail-oriented candidates with great problem-solving skills.

Fields of study: Intellectual Property (IP) law, Commercial law

4. Parliamentary drafts-person

Government lawyers specialise in drafting legislation in all areas of law. This needs to be clear, precise and unambiguous, so excellent linguistic and written communication skills are crucial for this role. A good understanding of the political system and an eye for detail are also needed.

Fields of study: All areas of law, Public / Constitutional law

5. Politics

It’s well known that many law graduates go on to do something other than become a solicitor or barrister. Politics is one such example; it’s a natural step and many current and former politicians studied Law at university. If you’re interested in exploring politics as a career you’ll need excellent communication skills, plenty of passion and probably a very thick skin!

Fields of study: All areas of law, Public / Constitutional law

6. Entrepreneur

You may decide that you want to use your skills and knowledge to set up your own business, and a legal background gives an entrepreneur many advantages in the business world. Bear in mind that you can only set up a law business after three years of practice post-qualification. However, you can offer many other skills such as consultancy, I.T., marketing services etc. as a freelancer or small business.

Fields of study: Business law, Commercial law, Employment law

7. Energy and environmental lawyer

Many law schools now offer Energy and Environmental Law as an optional module or a standalone Master’s. This is a complex and rapidly-growing area of law, involving such areas as clean energy, climate change law, regulatory policy and compliance. You will need an interest in the subject, as well as a good understanding of environmental policy and land law.

Fields of study: Energy and Environmental law, Land law, Commercial law, Public law

8. Teaching and training

Teaching or lecturing in Law is a great route for those who have the skills to explain complex topics in a clear and engaging way. You’ll need a teaching qualification (depending on which age group you want to teach) and usually some years’ experience in legal practice, so this may be a route to consider for further along your career path. You will need to show a strong academic background too – so make use of Law Answered’s revision guides to ensure you get those top grades!

Fields of study: All areas of law

9. Army lawyer

Army lawyers are highly skilled in delivering a range of specialist legal services and advice. This job requires physical fitness as well as discipline, professionalism, strong academic skills and quick thinking. Some of the many perks include the potential for worldwide travel, subsidised postgraduate qualifications and a military career and rank.  

Fields of study: International law, Military law, Human Rights law

10. Social change and welfare

Perhaps your passion is in influencing social change and helping others. There are many organisations, such as Citizens Advice, who provide advice on a range of social issues including debt, housing and employment. There are also opportunities to campaign for changes to the law and lobby the government on policy issues. This is a rewarding career path and requires good all-round legal knowledge, as well as clear communication skills and plenty of empathy.

Fields of study: Family law, Consumer law, Public law, Employment law