Many people start their careers as lawyers for big law firms and later move into in-house roles. There are many routes into a legal career with some people favouring the in-house option more than others. It ultimately depends on your personality and working preferences but there are a number of key things to consider.

Working in house often requires a different set of skills. You no longer have a large team around you and you often have to rely on your own initiative. People who are proactive often fit well into in house roles and like to develop their own skills. This is because in house lawyers are often bought in because the company itself does not have its own capability. There will be a learning curve involved for both parties. This can be both exciting and challenging.

If you are thinking of becoming an in house lawyer then you will need to think about the experience you have. Most companies look for experienced candidates so if you are new to law you may want to work private practice for a while first. Most companies ask for a minimum of 18 months experience and good communication skills are a must. Take some time to research how the skillsets differ and where you think you are best placed.

There are both pros and cons to working in-house. Some job types are more suited to some people than others but there are core advantages and disadvantages to this type of position. These are:

Pros:
Working hours are typically shorter than those of private practice firms
No need to actively recruit new clients
More flexible approach with the opportunity to learn new areas of business
More of a direct influence over your work and the company’s operations
Sometimes there is a greater opportunity for further career progression in house

Cons:
Salaries are sometimes lower for in-house lawyers
Can take time for interesting cases to come along
The training capabilities offered can be limited
Focus on one client can be frustrating

Is it for me?
This ultimately depends on your personality and skillset. In house lawyers are expected to have a good level of expertise and experience. You should start by reaching out to your personal contacts and doing some background reading into what your new role will entail. Will this fulfil your requirements?

It is also important to be realistic. In house job roles can be difficult to find and the style is very different to that of the corporate environment. Once you have done your research you might be well advised to consult a specialist recruitment company. These can provide you with further information and possible job positions. If you are however completely new to law you should weigh up the options of both in house and private practice positions.

When applying for in-house roles take the time to develop your CV and gain good references. People who have expertise in a range of sectors are particularly well sought after. Include information on this on your CV and take your time to find the right job for you.

Author Bio: Richard Hall – Specialising in in-house legal jobs in Hampshire

Category: Career
Keywords: legal, career, jobs, lawyer