22,March 2023
Introduction
Law is not just about arguing your case; it is about using your skills to make a positive impact on society, being an advocate for justice, a protector of human rights, and a voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves.
The field of law is vast, and there are many areas of specialization to choose from. Whether you are interested in criminal law, corporate law, intellectual property law, or any other area, pursuing a career in law can provide you with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world.
If you are looking for a career that is both challenging and rewarding, law is the path to success. Law is often regarded as a prestigious and lucrative profession, but there are many reasons beyond these obvious benefits that make it an ideal path to success. In this blog, we will discuss why pursuing a career in law can be a holistic choice for anyone looking to achieve professional success with a resonant social influence.
Making a Difference through Law
As per a very common maxim, “Law is a noble profession”. It is an occupation that can have a significant impact on society. Lawyers and legal professionals can play an essential role in shaping public policy, advocating for social justice, and helping those in need. In India, there are several examples of lawyers and legal organizations working towards constructive social impact.
One such example is the work of human rights lawyers and organizations, such as the People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and the Human Rights Law Network (HRLN). These organizations have worked on issues such as police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and the protection of marginalized communities, including women, children, and the LGBTQ+ community.
In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards pro bono legal services in India. Many law firms and lawyers now offer their services for free or at reduced rates to individuals and organizations who cannot afford legal representation. This has been particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic, where many people have faced legal issues related to health, employment, and access to government benefits.
Legal aid has also played a crucial role during the pandemic. The government has set up several legal aid clinics across the country to provide free legal services to those in need. These clinics have helped individuals facing issues such as domestic violence, eviction, and loss of livelihood due to the pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of these services and has led to a renewed focus on ensuring access to justice for all. The Supreme Court of India took several steps to support legal aid during the pandemic. In April 2020, the court directed the states and union territories to set up virtual courts and legal aid helplines to ensure access to justice during the lockdown. This was particularly important for those who were at high risk of contracting COVID-19 or were unable to travel due to the lockdown restrictions. Virtual courts also helped to reduce the backlog of cases that had accumulated during the lockdown, ensuring that people's legal issues were addressed in a timely manner. The court also directed the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) to launch a campaign to provide legal aid to the marginalized communities affected by the pandemic. Legal aid helplines provided much-needed support to people who were facing legal issues related to the pandemic. This included issues such as job loss, eviction, and denial of government benefits. The helplines provided legal advice and assistance to those in need, ensuring that their rights were protected and that they had access to justice.
What Does a Law Degree have to Offer?
Pursuing a career in law requires dedication, hard work, and resilience. The competitive job market and demanding workload can pose challenges, but with the right mindset and strategies, success in the legal field is achievable. Following are a few benefits that one can reap from earning a degree in law:
- Financial Stability: One of the most significant advantages of pursuing a career in law is the financial stability it provides. Lawyers are among the highest-paid professionals, with the potential to earn lucrative salaries as their career progresses. This financial stability provides them with the means to make significant investments and plan for a secure future.
- Job Security: Lawyers are always in demand, making it one of the most secure professions in the job market. Whether you choose to work for a law firm, a corporation, or the government, there will always be a need for legal services. This job security provides peace of mind and eliminates the stress of worrying about job stability.
- Personal Fulfillment: As a lawyer, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. Whether you are fighting for the rights of victims of injustice, helping businesses navigate legal complexities, or protecting the intellectual property of creators, you are contributing to the betterment of society. This sense of purpose and personal fulfillment is something that sets this profession apart.
- Professional Growth: The field of law is constantly evolving, providing lawyers with the opportunity to continually learn and grow. Lawyers must stay up-to-date on legal developments and are dedicated to a lifetime of learning. This ongoing learning provides lawyers with a sense of professional growth and fulfillment that is hard to find in other professions.
- Master the Art of Rhetoric: In law, the power of persuasion is often what determines the outcome of a case or negotiation. Strong argumentation skills are essential for any lawyer who wants to succeed in the legal field. The ability to construct a convincing argument is vital in convincing judges, juries, or opposing parties of the validity of your legal position. Good oratory skills can help you stand out in any competitive field by distinguishing you as an effective communicator. It can improve your chances of successfully negotiating settlements. Strong argumentation skills can also lead to better client relationships, as clients will appreciate your ability to present their cases convincingly and clearly. A law graduate also has excellent negotiation skills. Such expertise involve both argumentation and the ability to read and respond to the other party’s arguments and interests. Studying the law will sharpen one’s critical understanding and hone the skills necessary to articulating one’s position convincingly.
The Path to Success in Law
There are several paths to success in the field of law in India, each offering unique opportunities and benefits.
Becoming an Advocate
Becoming an advocate is the most common path to success in law. Lawyers represent clients in legal matters and provide legal advice. In India, a law degree is required to become a lawyer, and passing the bar exam is necessary to practice law as an advocate. They can work in various areas of law, such as corporate law, criminal law, family law, and intellectual property law. The benefits of being an advocate include the ability to help clients solve complex legal problems, the potential for high earning potential, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on society.
Job Outlook: The job outlook for advocates in India is projected to grow 15% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Lawyers in India typically earn an average salary of Rs. 3.4 Lakhs per year in their first three years of experience, with mid-career lawyers earning Rs. 5.4 Lakhs per year on average after 4-9 years and experienced lawyers with 10-20 years of experience earning an average of Rs. 6.2 Lakhs per year.
Legal Consultant
A legal consultant is a professional who provides expert advice to clients on legal matters, but does not represent them in court. Legal consultants can work in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. They provide guidance to businesses on legal compliance and help them develop strategies to mitigate legal risks. Legal consultants can also work independently or for consulting firms. The benefits of being a legal consultant include flexibility in working hours, the ability to work in various industries, and the potential for high earning potential.
Job Outlook: Legal consultants get promising salary packages in India. With an average annual salary of Rs. 5.5 Lakhs, you could earn anywhere between Rs. 2.0 Lakhs to Rs. 18.0 Lakhs, this can make for a lucrative career choice for law graduates.
Judge
A judge is a public official who presides over legal proceedings in court. Judges can work in various levels of the court system, including the apex court, state, and local courts. Judges have the power to interpret laws, make legal decisions, and enforce court orders. The benefits of being a judge include the ability to make a significant impact on society and the opportunity to uphold justice and fairness.
Job Outlook : Judges in India have the most revered social standing and rewarding financial returns. As of January 1, 2016, following are the new salaries, allowances, and pension rates for Supreme Court and High Court justices:
| Designation | Salary | Pension | Gratuity |
| Chief Justice of India | Rs.2,80,000/-p.m. | Rs.16,80,000/- per annum +Dearness Relief | Rs.20,00,000/- |
| Judges of Supreme Court | Rs.2,50,000/-p.m. | Rs.15,00,000/- per annum +Dearness Relief | Rs.20,00,000/- |
| Chief Justices of High Court | Rs.2,50,000/-p.m. | Rs.15,00,000/- per annum +Dearness Relief | Rs.20,00,000/- |
| Judges of High Court | Rs.2,25,000/-p.m. | Rs.13,50,000/- per annum +Dearness Relief | Rs.20,00,000/- |
Source: Department of Justice, the Government of India
Alternative Career Choices for Law Graduates
Apart from foraying into and establishing a career in the core field of law, law graduates have a diverse range of career opportunities beyond traditional legal practice. Here are some alternative career choices for law graduates:
- Legal Journalism: Legal journalists research and report on legal developments and issues, analyzing and presenting them to the public in an understandable manner. They work for media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, television, and online news sites.
- Government Service: Law graduates can work in various government agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Civil Services, Securities and Exchange Commission, etc. They can serve as legal counsel, policy analysts, or investigators.
- Law Officer: Law graduates can also work in as Law Officers in institutions and companies, where they can apply their legal knowledge to handle employment law issues such as discrimination, workplace harassment, and employee benefits.
- Compliance Officer: Compliance officers ensure that companies comply with legal and regulatory requirements, such as environmental laws, privacy laws, and financial regulations.
- Mediation and Dispute Resolution: Law graduates can work as mediators or arbitrators to help parties resolve disputes outside of court. They can work for private firms or government agencies.
- Legal Technology: Law graduates can work in the legal technology industry, assisting in the development of software and systems that streamline legal processes and improve access to legal information.
- Academic and Research: Law graduates can work in universities as professors or researchers, conducting research on various legal issues, and contributing to the development of legal scholarship.
- Non-profit Organizations: Law graduates can also work for non-profit organizations that advocate for various social, environmental, or human rights causes, using their legal expertise to advance the organization's mission.
Conclusion
Pursuing a career in law can be an excellent path to success. Whether you are interested in personal fulfillment, or professional growth, the field of law can provide you with the means to achieve your goals. Moreover, by choosing to become a lawyer, you can use your skills to make a positive impact on society, advocate for justice, and be a voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves. So, take the first step towards your successful career in law by applying for best law colleges in the country to kick-start your rewarding journey.
References
- https://institute.careerguide.com/10-reasons- to-choose-a-career-in-law/
- https://www.law.ac.uk/about/press-releases/ four-reasons-why-a-career-in-law-is-leading-the-way/
- https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/legal-analyst-salary
- https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/lawyer-salary
- https://doj.gov.in/pay-allowance/#:~:text=Rs. 2%2C80%2C000%2F%2Dp.m.
- https://www.thebetterindia.com/256412/covid-19-know-your-rights-india-online-platform-delhi- lawyer-sharon-mathew-legal-issues-resources-pro-bono-complaints- pandemic-india- vid01/