Alternative Careers for Lawyers: What You Can Do With a JD (Besides Practice Law)
Most lawyers reach a point where they wonder: Is this really it?
For some, the answer is yes - they thrive in practice. But for others, the legal career they worked so hard for feels misaligned. Their strengths are underused. Their values don’t fit the firm culture. They crave more freedom and control than billable hours allow.
I’ve worked with clients who explored - and launched - careers in HR, therapy, writing, entrepreneurship, real estate, coaching, even managing a winery. Each story is different, but the thread is the same:
They felt like parts of themselves were invisible in law.
They longed for authenticity.
They were ready to shed the suit of “attorney” - honoring it as part of their path, but not the whole story.
Common Paths Lawyers Take Beyond Law
HR & People Leadership → applying communication and conflict resolution skills.
Therapist/Coach → channeling listening, analysis, and empathy into helping others directly.
Writer/Entrepreneur → using creativity and problem-solving outside a courtroom.
Real Estate & Fund Management → leveraging negotiation and strategic thinking.
Lifestyle Careers like managing a winery → choosing freedom, passion, and community.
The Emotional Shift
The biggest change wasn’t just the job title. It was the feeling. Once they made the leap, my clients described feeling more authentic, more true to themselves and their path.
Practicing law had been part of their journey - but it wasn’t all of who they were or ever to become.
The Takeaway
A JD doesn’t box you in. It equips you. The law teaches discipline, analysis, communication, resilience - all of which are transferable to dozens of fulfilling paths.
If you’re wondering whether there’s something beyond the courtroom or firm hallway, know this: your next chapter can be just as rich - maybe richer - than the one you’re living now.