Being an attorney can be a rewarding and challenging career, but it may not be the right fit for everyone. If you are an attorney looking for a change, there are a variety of alternative jobs that can utilize the skills and experience you have gained in your legal career.

Some potential options might include working as a mediator, arbitrator, paralegal, or legal consultant. These careers can offer the opportunity to continue working in the legal field while also providing a different work environment and schedule.

In this article, we will explore some of the best alternative jobs for an attorney, including the duties and responsibilities of each position, the required qualifications and training, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Whether you are seeking a new challenge, a change of pace, or simply a new direction in your career, one of these alternative jobs may be the perfect fit for you.

Mediator

Being a mediator can be a good alternative job for an attorney for several reasons. First, mediators use their skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, and communication to help parties reach an agreement without going to court. This can be a more satisfying role for an attorney who may have become disillusioned with the adversarial nature of traditional legal practice.

Second, mediators have greater control over their schedule and workload compared to attorneys, who may have demanding and inflexible caseloads. This can allow for a better work-life balance and more opportunities for personal and professional development.

Third, the role of a mediator can be more financially stable than that of an attorney, as mediators are typically paid a flat fee for their services rather than relying on unpredictable billable hours.

Finally, being a mediator can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, as the role involves helping people resolve disputes and reach mutually beneficial agreements. In this way, mediators can make a positive impact on the lives of the people they work with and contribute to the resolution of conflicts in their communities.

Arbitrator

Being an arbitrator can be a good alternative job for an attorney because it allows them to use their legal training and experience in a different way. Rather than representing clients in court or providing legal advice, arbitrators act as neutral third parties to resolve disputes between parties.

This can be a less stressful and more flexible work environment compared to traditional legal practice, as arbitrators are not tied to a specific location and can schedule hearings and meetings at their own discretion.

Additionally, arbitrators have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of law, such as construction disputes or employment law, which can be a rewarding and lucrative niche. 

Paralegal

Being a paralegal can be a good alternative job for an attorney for several reasons.

First, paralegals often have the opportunity to work closely with attorneys and other legal professionals, which can be a rewarding experience for someone who is interested in the legal field. They may also have the opportunity to learn about different areas of law and gain valuable experience and skills that can be helpful in the future.

Second, paralegals often have more flexible work schedules than attorneys. While attorneys may be expected to work long hours and be on call, paralegals may have more regular business hours and may be able to have a better work-life balance.

Finally, being a paralegal can be a good stepping stone for those who are interested in becoming attorneys. Many paralegals go on to attend law school and become attorneys, and the experience they gain as paralegals can be helpful in preparing for law school and a career as an attorney.

Legal consultant

Being a legal consultant can be a good alternative job for an attorney for a number of reasons.

First, legal consulting allows attorneys to use their legal expertise in a flexible and potentially less stressful work environment. Legal consultants often work on a project-by-project basis rather than being tied to a traditional law firm schedule. This can allow attorneys to have more control over their workload and schedule and potentially have more balance between their professional and personal lives.

Second, legal consulting can provide attorneys with the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and industries. As a legal consultant, an attorney may have the chance to work on a variety of legal issues rather than being specialized in a particular area of law. This can allow attorneys to expand their knowledge and skills and potentially make a greater impact in their work.

Finally, legal consulting can be a financially lucrative career path for attorneys. Legal consultants often charge hourly rates for their services, which can be significantly higher than the salaries earned by attorneys working in traditional law firms. This can provide attorneys with the opportunity to earn a higher income and potentially build a successful and rewarding career.

Legal Writer or Editor

Being a legal writer or editor can be a good alternative job for an attorney for a number of reasons. First, it allows attorneys to use their legal expertise and knowledge in a different capacity while still working within the legal field.

Legal writers and editors are responsible for creating and revising legal documents and materials, such as contracts, briefs, memos, and articles. This work can be rewarding for attorneys who enjoy the intellectual challenges of analyzing and interpreting complex legal concepts and communicating them in a clear and concise manner.

Additionally, legal writing and editing jobs often offer a more flexible work environment and schedule compared to traditional law firm jobs. Attorneys who choose to work as legal writers or editors may have the opportunity to work remotely or on a contract basis, which can provide more control over their work-life balance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many alternative jobs for attorneys who are looking for a change or who are unable to meet the demands of traditional legal practice. Some options may include careers in education, consulting, or public policy. Each of these careers has its own set of challenges and rewards and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment similar to that of legal practice.

Having an application-ready resume is important for any job seeker, but it is especially crucial for attorneys who are looking to transition to a different career. An application-ready resume can help highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications and make you stand out to potential employers.

If you need help with preparing an application-ready resume, you can have our team of expert resume writers help you out!