How to Kickstart a Career in Law

Are you thinking of chasing a career in law but are not sure where to start? You’re definitely not the only one. Getting into law can feel like this huge mountain that only the most intelligent people can climb, but the truth is, it’s a lot more doable than you think once you break it down. If you’ve got that spark of interest, the drive to keep going, and a bit of patience, then you’re already halfway there.

Take the classes

First things first, you need the right qualifications. That usually means studying law at university or doing a law conversion course if your degree was in something else. It’s a long road, but if you enjoy debating, writing, or picking apart arguments, then the studying part can actually be fun. What really helps is staying organised from day one. Keep track of deadlines, use your lecturers as much as possible, and get used to reading cases because that’s going to be a massive part of your future.

Get some hands-on practice

A degree alone isn’t going to cut it in the legal world. You’re going to need hands-on experience if you want to stand out. That means things like internships, shadowing, or even volunteering at your local law centre. Don’t worry if you can’t land something at a big-name firm right away, because smaller placements still look great on your CV and give you the same skills. Plus, you’ll meet people already working in the industry, and those connections can come in handy later.

Know where to look

The next step is actually finding roles that fit what you’re aiming for. Law is such a broad field, so you’ll want to think carefully about where you see yourself. Do you want to work in family law, corporate law, or maybe even criminal defence? Each has its own path and style of working. The good news is that there are plenty of resources out there to help. Sites like Origin Legal are brilliant for checking what’s available, especially if you’re looking for roles in specific areas. Keep an open mind too, because the job you start in might not be the one you stay in forever.

Build your network

Networking might sound a bit daunting, but it’s one of the best ways to open doors in law. Go to events, join student law societies, and connect with people on LinkedIn who are already working in the field you’re interested in. Most people are more willing to help than you’d think, especially if you’re polite and genuine about your interest. Over time, these connections can lead to mentoring, references, or even your first proper job.

Keep going when it’s tough

Finally, you need to keep your motivation in check. Law is a career that takes time, so don’t panic if you don’t land your dream role straight away. Every step counts, and every bit of experience gets you closer. The trick is to keep learning, keep applying, and not let rejection knock you off track. If this is something you really want, then remind yourself why you started and keep pushing forward.