The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects there to be keen competition among new lawyers for jobs working as attorneys. Even though the economy is strong and showing signs of job growth in many areas, a large number of graduates of law schools continues to drive job competition in the legal field, reports the BLS.
A Lawyer's Education
What can you do to prepare for the competition you'll face when you enter the lawyer job market? Get a top education. The BLS says that those who graduate from a top law school will have the best chances of securing a desirable, well-paying job.That doesn't mean that your career is doomed if you don't get a legal education from a prestigious university. The BLS also says that some lawyers are pursuing careers outside of law in business, finance, government, and other areas where an education and degree in law are viewed as an asset, but not a job requirement.
Other lawyers continue their education through temporary employment, helping firms on an as needed basis. This is a good way to gain practical experience and expertise in a particular area of law.
Lawyers' Earnings
In spite of the challenges of getting into law school and then finding work at a leading firm, the career still attracts many students. This could be because salaries for lawyers are among the highest--in May, 2004 the median annual earnings of all lawyers were $94,930. Those working in the private sector in management earned the highest salaries, which averaged $126,250. That's a pretty good living, even by today's standards.Source
The Bureau of Labor Statistics
