By Colter Lee
Deciding on a career in law is not just about learning the fundamentals of the legal system but also involves focusing on one or more areas of specialization. There are many different branches of law, including criminal, civil, real estate, intellectual property and more. For this reason, taking courses that offer more than just the fundamentals is crucial in ensuring a successful and fulfilling legal career. Other reasons for further education in law include increasing knowledge of the field and deepening the understanding of complex legal concepts. This additional knowledge can help an individual become a better lawyer.
When it comes time for career advancement, the lawyer with advanced degrees and additional knowledge will be the first to be considered for higher positions such as a professorship, judicial clerkship or counsel for corporate entities. Furthering education can also keep legal professionals in the know when it comes to changes in legal trends and developing new skills. This makes an individual very attractive to law firms and educational institutions alike.
Advanced degrees also enhance credibility in the legal community and help a lawyer build a positive reputation and establish credibility among peers and clients. Pursuing further education in law can also broaden perspectives, enhance critical thinking skills and be personally fulfilling and rewarding.
Some creative ways lawyers have furthered their education is by applying for an MSN in forensic nursing with an accredited school such as Cleveland State University. Forensic nursing is a bridge between nursing and legal professionals because it incorporates elements of both professions. Studying with an online program allows working lawyers and nurses to advance their degrees in a flexible schedule while still working to support themselves.
Participating in continuing legal education programs in a career in law allows an individual to keep current on changes in law and new legal developments. It shows initiative and a penchant for lifelong learning. Another way to further your law education is to learn new languages that are relevant to legal practice, such as Spanish or French, which can expand a client base and make a lawyer more competitive in the job market.
Advanced degrees in specializations such as international law or environmental can make a lawyer more valuable to an employer and increase earning potential. These degrees always provide networking opportunities with other legal professionals, which can help establish relationships with potential clients and other practitioners in the field.
Many states and jurisdictions require lawyers to complete a certain number of continuing legal education (CLE) hours each year, which can help them stay up to date on changes in laws and regulations. Lawyers can attend CLE courses in person or online. They can also pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Laws (LLM) or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) in specialized areas such as tax law, environmental law or intellectual property law.
Lawyers with industry-specific knowledge are highly sought after, and a degree in business can help you gain specialized knowledge. Lawyers can take courses in business management, commercial law and profit maximization.
Soft skills can make a significant impact on a lawyer’s career. Courses in negotiations, leadership, client relations and emotional intelligence can help improve soft skills such as communication, decision-making and time management. Being technologically savvy is another important skill to have. Technology has transformed the legal industry, and staying updated on its advancement can help a lawyer improve their practice and deliver better service to clients. In addition, you can take courses in legal technology, e-discovery and other related areas to enhance your knowledge of this industry.
With the growing globalization of businesses, legal issues often arise that involve international law. Taking courses in international law can provide a lawyer with skills and knowledge in dealing with cross-border issues. Globalization means that a lawyer’s ability to communicate effectively is essential for meetings or in the courtroom. Taking courses in advocacy, public speaking and courtroom skills can help a lawyer become a more effective communicator and deliver a more compelling argument to a judge and jury.
The practice of law is often demanding and stressful. Taking courses on mental health and self-care can help lawyers maintain their overall well-being and mental health, leading to better job satisfaction and improved performance. This will also help in conflict resolution discussions. Lawyers are often mediators in disputes and must be skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution. Courses in mediation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) or conflict management can help you develop these skills.
Legal writing is a specialized skill, and taking courses in legal writing can help improve your writing skills, research skills and legal analysis skills, which can make you more effective in drafting legal documents. Writing skills can also enhance the marketing and business skills and make you better at developing new business and attracting new clients. Courses in marketing, business development, project management, talent management and strategic planning can help you acquire the necessary skills to build a thriving practice.
If you are interested in the judiciary, then you can gain practical experience and develop relationships with judges and other legal professionals by participating in a judicial clerkship or internship course programs. The experience can help in advancing your law career by developing critical connections in the legal industry. You may also be interested in entering public or government service. Courses in public policy can help you gain an understanding of governance and policy making, positioning you for roles in government and public administration.
In addition to formal courses, lawyers can benefit from mentorship programs that provide guidance and support for their professional development. Many communities have bar associations who offer mentorship to new lawyers. By exploring these courses, you can expand your skills and knowledge as you progress in your career and gain a competitive edge in the industry.
By taking additional courses, a lawyer can develop a diverse skill set that can open up new career opportunities, enhance their knowledge of the law and improve their reputation and credibility as legal professionals.
