Changing Careers?
Here’s How to Make Law Work for You
Thinking about switching to a legal career? You’re not alone. More people are bringing skills and experience from other careers into the legal profession, and making it work. But changing fields comes with questions. Here’s what career-changing law students are asking – and what you need to know to get ahead.
- How do I answer, “Why law?” and “Why now?”
As a law student with life experience and a previous career, employers may have higher expectations of you during career-related conversations. It helps to be clear and confident when explaining the story behind your career change and why you decided to move into law. Employers want to see that your decision to study law is based on solid reasoning, not just general interest. You don’t need to have your entire legal career mapped out, but you should come across as intentional, curious and making considered decisions.
Also, be prepared to address how you will manage the transition from being an experienced professional in your previous career, to a junior team member under supervision in a legal team.
- Does my previous career hurt or help my chances of becoming a lawyer?
Plenty of career changers have built successful legal careers, by drawing on their experience. One thing many have in common is they didn’t wait until graduation to find out which employers value their previous career and experience. They started researching firms and organisations that do while still a law student. Those employers are out there but might not spell it out in job ads. You will need to go looking.
Use company websites and LinkedIn, talk to alumni, and identify legal workplaces that already hire grads with diverse backgrounds like yours.
- Are grad programs for me?
They might be, if the role matches your goals. But not all programs are designed for those with previous careers. Always ask the hiring team if you are eligible to apply (for example, do you need to have done PLT, or do they prefer you to be in the final year of uni when you apply) and if you would be a good fit.
If not, ask about other pathways into their firm. And don’t panic if you don’t land a grad program. Most first-year lawyers don’t start off in top-tier or national law firms; small and mid-sized firms hire more grads than anyone else.
- How do I communicate my Unique Value Proposition (UVP)?
As a mature age student or career changer, you’ll bring skills that others don’t. This could be your industry-specific knowledge, business acumen and advocacy experience. You could simply ask legal professionals about what they think sets you apart… you may be surprised!
Use legal job ads in your areas to see what employers might find most valuable in you. And, while networking, ask legal professionals what they think firms value most from someone with your background. You’ll start to feel more confident when explaining your UVP.
- Is it ok that I don’t have any legal experience yet?
Legal experience is great but is not always a prerequisite to secure a role at entry level. Short placements, volunteering or shadowing opportunities, have benefits too. But if life makes that hard, don’t stress, because your PLT course will offer valuable, practical experience.
Leo Cussen’s PLT includes simulated legal work and a real 3-week professional placement. Virtual internships can also add something meaningful to the extra-curricular section of your resume.
- I’m worried about my salary decreasing. How do I handle that?
You may be facing a pay cut or hoping to avoid one. Either way, be prepared to explain your expectations clearly. Do your research and be realistic. If you’re willing to earn less, say so confidently and back it up. If you are asking for more than the typical starting salary, explain how your experience brings added value.
Salary is one part of your career shift, so make sure you have thought it through, and employers will take you seriously.
About the author
Jacinta Foley is a Careers Advisor at Leo Cussen, supporting law students and grads as they navigate their next steps into the legal profession. With a background in recruitment and career development, Jacinta brings practical insight and real-world advice to help career changers and first-time job seekers find their path in law.
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