Nontraditional Work
While websites like Indeed.com, simplyhired.com, and other online job boards contain associate and attorney positions, you may want to expand your job search beyond traditional law positions, regardless of your licensing status. Additionally, job postings that once showed a specific location now include a previously foreign word in the legal profession. That word is “remote.”
Working remotely has become routine. Even courts have adopted virtual and remote proceedings. Remote positions allow individuals to work from the comfort of their own homes and still earn money. While waiting to bridge the gap between law school and licensure, you may want to consider working as a paralegal or a legal personal assistant. You may also want to consider positions such as document reviewers, legal researchers, legal transcriptionists, adjunct faculty, contract proofreaders, etc.
Contract Work for Attorneys
As more courts resume in-person hearings and the legal profession adjusts to operating in this extraordinary time, in-person opportunities still exist despite the pandemic. Positions still exist for law clerks at various levels. Hanging your shingle also brings freedom and flexibility. Companies like Docketly, Attorneys in Motion, Attorneys on Demand, and Nationwide Appearance pay attorneys to appear on behalf of other attorneys. As all states’ judiciaries are different, some court proceedings may be telephonic, while others may require attorneys to “mask-up” and make an appearance in court.
Although you may prefer full-time employment, contract work is in abundance in various areas. The work may be remote, in-person, or a combination of both. Agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Indigent Defender Offices have investigator, attorney, and other roles available. Websites like LAWCLERK and Freelance Legal Exchange (FLEX) connect freelance attorneys with law firms to help with various projects. If you are a commissioned Notary Public, you can earn extra money by notarizing documents and performing other tasks allowed within your state. AAA and FINRA select individuals who receive payment for resolving disputes in mediator and arbitrator roles.
The COVID-19 pandemic has required the world, including the legal profession, to adapt and evolve. However, opportunities for legal professionals to earn money still exist, especially if you think outside of the box and consider nontraditional roles. If you are a recent law school graduate or a young lawyer looking for a job, take time to explore and research the various available employment options. Groups like the ABA Career Center, state and local bar associations, affiliate organizations, and LinkedIn communities can provide employment resources, networking, and other online tools. With perseverance, creativity, and the desire to succeed, the opportunities to earn money are endless during a pandemic and beyond.
