Other

I came across a link today through Above the Law and thought it was relevant to this discussion. It's to a blog article called Create A New Career Outside The Law. While I think this was meant for those who don't want to practice law, it also could apply to those of us trying to figure out how to make an impact and pursue happiness as lawyers.

My big fear for my future is taking a big law job to pay off my loans and getting shackled by golden handcuffs. The author addresses the financial issue, which resonated with me:

How Do I Leave Behind My Big Paycheck?

Financial considerations always arise when transitioning out of the law. Remember, though, that it may not be the case that moving into another career will mean a pay cut. A substantial number of non-legal positions pay very acceptable salaries.[5] And if a position you decide to seek does pay less initially, it may offer the potential for you to earn more as you progress. Sometimes changing careers does entail reduced earnings, prestige and control while you take the time to develop new expertise. On the other hand, your new work may build on your previous experience, and pay more than you expect. You may also be able to supplement your income with contract legal work while you are learning a new trade or building a new business, which is what I did.

Consider, too, that you may not need to make as much money as you earned as an attorney. There’s always a trade-off: your income may diminish, but your satisfaction may increase. Because you’re doing what you want to do, you’ll feel as if your life is richer and more fulfilled in ways that can more than compensate for a lower salary. Don’t let your assumptions and fears stop you from investigating what may be open to you.

-- MolissaFarber - 13 Mar 2009