Do you want to work in the legal field but don’t want to be a lawyer? No problem! There are plenty of legal jobs that don’t require you to have a law degree. Many of these positions offer excellent pay and benefits.
So if you’re interested in pursuing a career in the legal field but don’t want to go to law school, read on.
1. Legal Assistant/Legal Secretary
These professionals typically assist lawyers, but they can also act independently in smaller law firms. Their duties may include answering phone calls, managing calendars and diaries, organizing files and documents (e.g., court documents), scheduling meetings with clients, filing legal paperwork (e.g., briefs), drafting documents, and research.
They may also perform secretarial duties such as typing memos, letters, emails, spreadsheets, contracts, proposals, budgets, and much more. Both paralegals and legal assistants have to understand the law to assist lawyers with their cases better.
2. Legal Transcriptionist
As a legal transcriptionist, you’ll listen to and transcribe recorded dictations or conversations lawyers use as evidence in court cases. You may be required to type up general notes from the entire issue and those for individual clients.
This is typically an entry-level position with little to no experience required. There are no educational requirements either, so this job is perfect for people looking for a career change or getting their foot in the door of the legal field.
3. Bail Bondsman
If you’re interested in making money fast, becoming a bail bondsman is another option. All you need to do is put up a financial guarantee that the defendant or suspect will appear in court.
As long as they show up, you’ll get your money back. But if they skip town, they’ll owe you 10 percent of their total bail amount (which typically ranges from $5,000 to $50,000).
It’s important to note that bail agents need to be licensed by their state and federal governments before posting any bonds with them. You also need to go through training. However, it’s a fun, fast-paced job that pays well.
4. Legal Document Preparer
Legal document preparers are responsible for preparing legal documents like wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents.
They may help clients complete the necessary forms (e.g., powers of attorney) or provide instructions on doing it themselves. Clients usually hire them when they need to get their paperwork in order but don’t want to pay high attorney’s fees.
You can find these professionals online or through your local yellow pages directory. Many organize seminars that teach people how to prepare their legal forms without hiring an expert. However, if you’re considering this career path, make sure you research the person you’re hiring first before handing over any money.
5. Legal Administrative Assistant
Legal administrative assistants typically work for medium-size firms or large corporations within the legal industry. They may perform administrative duties related to legal billing; oversee office supplies; ensure those firm policies are followed; coordinate travel arrangements for employees who have to meet with clients or go to court; or provide clerical support for attorneys, paralegals other legal staff.
6. Legal Recruiter/Legal Search Consultant
If you’re good with people and enjoy connecting them with excellent companies, then you’ll love working as a legal recruiter or consultant. You’ll be responsible for finding top talent and ensuring they’re a good fit for the employer before you place them in their role. This is an excellent position for those with some experience in recruitment and HR and sales skills that can be applied to this line of work. Yo
I’ll need a bachelor’s or associate degree to be a legal recruiter. However, to become a legal search consultant, you only need a high school diploma and experience in recruitment.
7. Court Reporter
Court reporters play an essential role in the judicial system by recording everything said in a court case. This is done using special machines and equipment and stenotype keyboards.
After the law proceedings have been recorded, the court reporters write their notes. All states require stenographers to be licensed after passing a test demonstrating mastery of phonetic shorthand and machine shorthand/transcription skills.
Online courses are available for those looking to gain certification or license eligibility before applying for this job. Some colleges also offer specific degree programs in court reporting or legal transcription. However, these options usually require at least two years of a college education beyond high school.
There are plenty of exciting legal careers out there if you’re not cut out to be a lawyer. Do your research and find the perfect job for you today.