From the Courtroom to the Boardroom: Broadening the Scope of Career Paths for Women Lawyers

November 28, 2023

Traditionally, the legal profession has been viewed as a linear path. You study law, become a lawyer, and rise through the ranks. If all goes well, you secure a partnership in a respected firm.

However, the legal profession has evolved. As a result of this evolution, there are many new career options that have opened up for women attorneys. This means there are plenty of global opportunities for us to increase our earning potential and job satisfaction, as well as advance in our careers.

Whether you aim to advance within your organization or embark on an entirely new professional journey, navigating your career transition will require careful planning, strategic networking, and a willingness to embrace change.

The Call for Change: Why a Career Transition?

For many women lawyers, the prospect of a career transition arises from a desire to explore new challenges, achieve a better work-life balance, or find a role that offers a different kind of professional fulfillment. However, making such a move can be daunting and fraught with uncertainty.

The thought of leaving your current position may be unnerving. But you shouldn’t let this stop you. Be bold and make the leap into something new, especially if you sense it’s time for a change. Who knows? Your next career move may be just what you’re looking for.

Take, for instance, the story of Anna, a corporate lawyer who transitioned into a consulting role for a tech startup. Or Maria, who used her legal expertise to advocate for education reform in a non-profit setting. These women, among others, demonstrate that a legal background can pave the way to diverse, fulfilling careers outside traditional law practice.

Options Beyond the Courtroom

Career options for women lawyers are plentiful, extending into sectors like consulting, politics, academia, corporations, and non-profit organizations. Having a law degree equips you with a valuable skill set that is highly transferable and sought after in various industries.

Transferrable skills from the legal profession include:

Critical Thinking: Lawyers are trained to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of arguments and evidence. This skill is invaluable in any field that requires problem-solving or decision-making.
Research and Analysis: Lawyers are adept at conducting comprehensive research, analyzing large amounts of information, and synthesizing it into a coherent, compelling narrative.
Communication: Both written and verbal communication skills are developed in law practice. Lawyers are experts at presenting information clearly, persuasively, and concisely.
Negotiation: Lawyers frequently negotiate on behalf of their clients, a skill that is valuable in business transactions, conflict resolution, and even interpersonal relationships.
Attention to Detail: Law requires meticulous attention to detail, as small nuances can make a big difference in case outcomes. This ability to be thorough and accurate is beneficial in many roles.
Organization and Time Management: Managing multiple cases, deadlines, and responsibilities requires excellent organizational and time management skills.
Advocacy: The ability to advocate for a cause or an individual is a valuable skill. This is not only relevant in law but also in areas like sales, customer service, and nonprofit work.
Ethical Judgment: Lawyers are bound by a code of ethics and are experienced in navigating complex ethical dilemmas. This ability to make sound, ethical decisions is important in every profession.
Understanding of Legal Frameworks: Having a background in law provides a thorough understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks, which can be valuable in roles that require compliance or involve legislative processes.
Resilience: The high-pressure nature of legal work often cultivates resilience, an invaluable trait that can help individuals thrive in challenging situations in any career.

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Women Who Have Transitioned From Lawyers to Other Careers

There are numerous stories of women who have successfully transitioned from legal careers to diverse professions, demonstrating the versatile nature of a law degree.

Hilary Clinton – Started her career as a lawyer and then transitioned into politics, eventually becoming the Secretary of State and a presidential candidate.
Michelle Obama – After working at a law firm, she transitioned into public service and nonprofit work, and of course, later served as First Lady.
Megyn Kelly – After a decade of practicing law, she transitioned to a successful career in broadcast journalism.
Anita Hill – An attorney who transitioned into academia and is now a professor of social policy, law, and women’s studies at Brandeis University.
Dame Vera Baird – After a successful career in law, she transitioned into politics in the UK, serving as the Solicitor General for England and Wales.
Caroline Kennedy – A lawyer, writer, and diplomat who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan.
Elena Kagan – Started as a lawyer and later transitioned into academia before becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
Jeanine Pirro – After working as a prosecutor, judge, and elected official, she became a broadcaster and author.
Geraldine Ferraro – Practiced law before becoming the first female Vice Presidential candidate representing a major American political party.
Stacey Abrams – Worked as a tax attorney before transitioning into politics and becoming a voting rights activist.
Elizabeth Warren – Was a law professor before becoming a U.S. Senator.
Judith Sheindlin – Better known as Judge Judy, transitioned from a judge to a highly successful television personality.
Chai Feldblum – A lawyer who became a Georgetown Law professor and served as a Commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Laurie Robinson Haden – A former corporate attorney who founded Corporate Counsel Women of Color.
Catherine MacKinnon – A legal scholar who transitioned into academia, focusing on women’s rights, feminism, and sexuality.

Each of these women demonstrates how the skills and experiences gained in a legal career can be applied in various fields and roles, contributing significantly to society in diverse ways.

Strategies to Help You Transition to a New Career or Job

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Here are some tips to help you make smooth transitions and be successful in your new career endeavor:

Hire a career coach to help you create a career roadmap: A career coach is a great tool to help you transition to a new role. They are experts in creating roadmaps to determine your next destination in your career. With their help, you can identify your skills, strengths, and areas of interest. Together you can develop a personalized step-by-step plan to reach your career goals.
Network and build relationships with people who are working in your desired career: Go to as many industry events as you can, join relevant professional associations, and engage with online forums. Build genuine relationships with professionals who can offer guidance, mentorship, and potential job opportunities. This is one way to get your foot in the door and pivot more quickly.
Learn how to market yourself: Knowing how to sell your skills and abilities comes in handy when transitioning to a new career. Crafting an elevator pitch highlighting your unique value and demonstrating your enthusiasm and commitment to your new career path is a great place to start. What is your personal brand? Is it in alignment with the career you are trying to pivot to? Tailor your resume and online presence to emphasize relevant experiences and achievements you have in the field. Creating a captivating brand is key and can set you apart from others vying for the same position.
Prepare to excel in interviews: Find out as much as you can about the company, industry, and job role to understand the organization and its needs. Identify your value and how it aligns with the requirements of the new role. Practice articulating your value with compelling stories that show your abilities and achievements.
Stay Resilient: Transitioning to a new career is a process and can involve setbacks. Maintain a positive mindset, seek support when needed, and remember that persistence is key.
Revamp Your Resume: Tailor your CV to your new career goal, emphasizing transferable skills and relevant experiences. Consider a functional or hybrid resume format.
Prepare Financially: A career change might involve a period of unemployment or lower income. Plan and save accordingly to ensure financial stability during the transition.
Take inventory of your transferable Skills: Identify the skills you already have that will be beneficial in your new role. Highlight these in your CV, cover letters, and interviews.
Maximize volunteering or internship opportunities: Try to gain practical experience in your new field. Volunteering, part-time work, or internships can provide a sense of the industry and allow you to make valuable connections.
Get additional training or a formal degree: Consider whether you need additional skills or qualifications for your new career. This might involve taking courses, obtaining certifications, or even pursuing a new degree.

Your legal skills are valuable and versatile. They can open doors to a wide range of professional fields. Don’t shy away from exploring new horizons and pursuing your passions. By remaining resilient, adaptable, and open to new experiences, you can successfully shift your career path and thrive in your new role.

About Corporate Counsel Women of Color

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