So I'm considering a career in law but I'm terrified because?

by **broehain61** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 8:45 pm

of all the discouraging things I've been hearing about law school and getting a job after law school. I'm not wealthy in the least, but fortunately I didn't have to pay much for my undergrad education, and have more to spend on law school. I have a disabled mother and need to stay close to home (Alabama) for law school. There are no top law schools here, and I know to get a job in a big firm you either need to graduate at the top of your class from a tier-1 law school, or have great connections. I wanted to practice intellectual property/entertainment law, but I'm worried I won't be able to find a job in these areas in Alabama.

I have an undergraduate double degree in music/music education. Is there a way (other than entertainment law) that I can combine these two interests (music and law)? What are some other advantages of having a law degree in the music profession? I'm glad that if law doesn't work out, I can always teach, but I really am passionate about the law. Thanks!

by **burt** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 8:52 pm

Having a degree in music is a great base to become on intellectual property lawyer with a focus on entertainment law. It will give you a great edge and make you stick out from the typical applicants into law school. The University of Alabama is a tier-1 school, and I feel like there are lots of opportunities in the South to practice entertainment law. I think that is it sounds like a great way to combine your interests and at the very least you should apply and see what happens.

I'm not sure about other careers that combine the two interests, you could go into something to do with business and music or even journalism and music, if either of those interest you at all. If the idea of going through law school is intimidating you could also looking into paralegal work or something similar at a firm with an entertainment law division, that would help you get a feel for the field.

Good Luck!

by **ned** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 9:05 pm

The good thing about my situation is, even if I can't find a job in law, I could always use my law degree for something in music business. And, if all else fails, I can teach. Thank you all for your advice!

by **camdin90** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 9:12 pm

How close to home? Nashville is not that far is it?
Vanderbilt is one of the finest law schools in the country.

by **ealahweemah72** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 9:19 pm

Warning: Jobs in the field of Law are really drying up FAST!!! This is NOT a good field to invest in right now. Reasons: very bad economy, people think they can do their own legal work now thanks to the web, law schools (including those that train legal support staff) are simply churning out WAY TOO MANY graduates to be supported by today's economy - you'll graduate but find there are NO jobs, law office environments are very political and competitive and bosses generally do not have their employee's best interests in mind.

Suggestion: Go into the field of healthcare!!! <LOTS of jobs there! Healthcare is HOT right now! Scholarships etc.

Good luck.

by **crom** » Thu Mar 31, 2011 9:23 pm

Trust the general market trends and know that the odds are not in your favor. If I were in your position, I wouldn't go to law school. People are just awakening to the reality of the lack of employment thereof after law school. The rumors are true! There are less expensive means to achieve a healthier, happier career.

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