The humanities teach you to synthesize information and craft a compelling case, making a great foundation for careers in the legal field. People with humanities backgrounds can go into all areas of law: from practicing as an attorney to providing legal support services, and in areas from impact law to family law. Some careers within the legal field that humanities training can help you pursue are:
Attorney
Attorneys can work in a wide range of settings, from their own practice, to an existing law firm, to the in-house counsel office of a company or government agency.
Necessary training: JD (Juris Doctor), bar exam, state bar admission; special training needed for some fields, like patent law
Early career roles: Associate Attorney, Law Fellow
Emanuel Townsend
Associate General Counsel
BA American Studies
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure that their organization follows legal and regulatory requirements, as well as internal policies. They might work in government or in industries like finance, technical services, and healthcare.
Necessary training: Bachelor’s degree; some employers prefer to hire candidates with a legal background
Early career roles: Compliance Analyst, Compliance Assistant, Junior Compliance Officer
Judge
Judges oversee legal proceedings, including conducting hearings and trials, facilitating negotiations, and issuing legal decisions. Most are appointed or elected to their positions.
Necessary training: JD (Juris Doctor)
Early career roles: Prior experience as a lawyer is generally required; see Attorney section
Paralegal
Paralegals provide legal support work, including conducting research, reviewing documents, organizing files, and coordinating with clients.
Necessary training: State requirements vary, and may involve training, passing an exam, or on-the-job experience; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree often required
Early career roles: Legal Assistant, Litigation Assistant, Paralegal
Key Skills
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Ethical leadership
- Professionalism
- Research
- Attention to detail
Learn More
O*NET OnLine: Lawyers
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Lawyers
O*NET OnLine: Compliance Officers
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Compliance Officers
O*NET OnLine: Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Judges and Hearing Officers
O*NET OnLine: Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Paralegals and Legal Assistants