As a lawyer, you need real expertise in your field to get ahead. There are a lot of routes you could take, especially if you're just starting out.

Let your interests, what's in demand, and what pays well guide your choice. Here are 16 areas of law worth considering.

1. Complex litigation

This area demands patience and close attention to detail. Complex litigation is one of the more lucrative specializations, since it involves high-stakes, corporate lawsuits, and motions filed in court. Cases can run long, so if you like working toward a big payoff, this route could be for you.

2. Corporate law

Corporate law also handles business affairs, but focuses more on day-to-day, typical practices: contracts, compliance, and liability. Lawyers in this area help a business get off the ground with its initial paperwork or help companies navigate difficult situations like bankruptcy.

3. Tax law

Tax law is complex and always evolving, which makes it an exciting practice area to enter. Tax attorneys guide people through Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audits, estate planning, and other tax issues. It's also lucrative; tax attorneys can earn well into six figures, with top earners exceeding $300,000.

4. Intellectual property

With so much created and shared digitally, intellectual property (IP) matters more than ever. From trademarks to copyrights to patents, lawyers in this field help people protect their ideas and projects from theft or duplication.

5. Blockchain

Blockchain and Bitcoin have moved firmly into mainstream conversation. As more people understand these technologies, attorneys with knowledge in this area will only become more valuable. As the technology matures and regulation catches up, opportunities in this space will keep growing.

6. Healthcare

Healthcare law has been a hot topic for years, and U.S. healthcare regulations are still shifting. Professionals who stay current on the rules and can navigate the landscape well will benefit.

7. Environmental

Climate change is an issue that will only grow more urgent. As we work out how to protect the environment and regulations evolve to match, lawyers in this space will be essential.

8. Criminal

Whether you want to be a defense lawyer or a prosecutor, criminal law is full of opportunity. Lawyers here see plenty of courtroom drama while protecting their clients' interests.

9. Civil rights

Civil rights attorneys do important work protecting basic human rights. They sometimes work for nonprofits, but often take these cases pro bono alongside other practice areas.

10. Animal rights

As an animal rights attorney, you act as the voice for animals that have been harmed or exploited. This can include cases involving animal cruelty and neglect, wildlife protection, farming and agricultural practices, and disputes over service and emotional support animals. In this field, you can shape animal protection legislation and support organizations working to improve their quality of life.

11. Immigration

This practice area covers asylum and refugee law, business immigration law, and criminal or deportation defense. It consistently draws close attention from lawmakers, courts, and the public, and it gives you a real platform to do meaningful work on behalf of others.

12. Sports and entertainment

This specialization covers contract negotiation and disputes, IP law, compensation and royalties, and more. You could end up working with big-name clients, so relationship-building and knowledge of changing industry regulations go a long way.

13. Labor

Workers' rights are always evolving, so professionals in labor law are in constant demand. From sexual harassment and wrongful termination to benefits and compensation, attorneys can find a wide range of cases here.

14. Family law

Cases in family and juvenile law are incredibly varied, from adoption to domestic abuse. Attorneys see a wide range of situations, some great and some awful, but either way, this work makes a real difference in people's lives.

15. Elder law

As life expectancy rises, protecting vulnerable elders matters more than ever. Lawyers in this area can expect cases to include insurance, wills, estate planning, guardianship, and more.

16. Education

If practicing law full-time isn't the right fit, consider teaching it instead. As a law professor, you help the next generation of lawyers build the skills they need to succeed.

Explore our open roles

If you're looking for a new role in the legal profession, browse our job listings. When you apply, one of our expert consultants will reach out with relevant opportunities.

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