Has anyone left, or transitioned out of, the practice of law to become a police officer or firefighter?

[bachir93]

I have practiced corporate law for several years and do work on behalf of sophisticated business people trying to make money. That is not meant as a criticism of them but I have not really done anything significant to serve the public interest. I suppose I could do public interest work, or try to do more pro bono (practically, it's tough to manage if you're a busy transactional lawyer in a large law firm - litigators are in a better position to really help those pro bono clients who need it).

But I would have more of an interest in doing work that requires a good mind and good intentions with a little brawn. I come from a military family but didn't serve myself when I was young, which I regret. I've been thinking about this long and hard for a good year. I'm pushing 40. It's not the ideal starting age, but I'm physically fit and relatively strong. I think it's now or never.

I would appreciate hearing from anyone who went through this thought process and then actually took the leap, whether doing it full-time or whether he/she has managed to have some sort of law practice on the side (either to supplement income or out of interest). It would also be great to hear of anyone who has a friend, acquaintance or family member who has done the same.

For any police officers or firefighters out there, it would be very helpful to get some reactions on how you would view this transition if you were interviewing me to come on board with you. Am I too old (realistically, for retirement considerations, physical aptitude 10 years from now, or otherwise)? Are attorneys necessarily viewed suspiciously? My interest in the law is one of the biggest attractions to law enforcement (though it is a totally different field of law than what I'm familiar with).

Thank you in advance for any thoughts and reactions.

[michelangelo]

I respect you interest in public service. In my agency we do have a number of prior lawyers who transitioned to police officers.

In one nearby community the judge became a volunteer fire fighter. In an interesting turn of events he changed from a judge with liberal views and a history of little to no consequences for criminal to a conservative judge who is tough on crime.

In my police agency there is a minimum fitness standard that you have to meet to join. An officer retakes the fitness test once a year. One of my best friend officers retired at age 60 (and is still in great shape - he has run a number of marathons since then)

Public safety is a demanding and dangerous job. To be successful each member must function as a team member. When you first start it is important to quickly earn a good reputation as a hard worker. Police officers especially come from a very diverse background of past employment.

Good luck on your decision.