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After graduating from law school as an intellectual property or criminal justice lawyer, What is the likelihood that a job will be avaliable for me when you apply to a specific law firm?

I am a junior in New York City. I am interested in attending law school and I am curious. Being that the economy is in a crisis and unemployment has risen, I know I will be worried about finding a job immediately after graduating from Law School. #law #criminal-justice #intellectual-property

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Conor’s Answer

The particulars of the economy now will not affect your future as a lawyer, at least directly.


If you're a high school junior, that means that you have 1 more yr high school + 4 yrs college + 3 years law school which is a minimum of 8 years until you seek full time employment: 2020!


On the other hand, it is true that the economy does affect the job prospects of lawyers in general. The more well regarded the law school and the better student you are, the higher the chance of employment. So if you go that route go to as good of a school as possible and work hard.


If you do that, you need not worry: most graduates of top law schools are able to find jobs even in an economic downturn.

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Traci’s Answer

Hi Bariel! I can understand your concern about finding a job after graduating law school. I personally believe the prospects for intellectual property attorneys is only going to grow in the future. There will always be a need to protect our new, amazing ideas.

I didn't go to law school but I have been an intellectual property paralegal for over a decade, first at a non-profit organization then for a large tech company. Many corporations hire in-house intellectual property attorneys who work with or without outside counsel at a law firm, so be sure to keep that in your mind when you start looking for employment!

From patents (my field) to trademarks, or copyrights and trade secrets, intellectual property is so important and interesting - especially as AI starts to become more front and center in our lives. Congratulations on choosing such a wonderful law concentration!
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Mackenzie’s Answer

Depends on where you are willing to work. Keep an open mind when it comes to a first job opportunity and getting your foot in the door somewhere. Be realistic on options and their availability. Always shoot for the job you want but be prepared to have backup plans and second and third options. Make the most of any opportunity you find yourself in and do your best to make a good impression. Doing this will set you up for a greater chance of success advancing your career in law.
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Kat’s Answer

Hi Bariel,


Conor is exactly right - if you get into a good law school (top 20 in the nation), you will have very good chances of finding a job even if the economy isn't doing well. That's the biggest factor in getting a legal job, and it's not mentioned very often. For example, someone in the bottom of the class at Harvard will have a much easier time finding a job than someone at the very top of their class at a Tier 2 or 3 school.


Also, if you have an interest in science, math, engineering, etc. you may want to consider patent law. Patent lawyers are always in high demand and find it much easier to get jobs after graduation than attorneys specializing in other areas.


Good luck!

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