Currently pursuing a law degree and want to find out which jobs pay the best after graduation? When deciding an area to specialize in, you’ll have to take several things into account—including how well they pay.

While this shouldn’t be the only consideration, the returns are an important factor when deciding which legal job to apply for.

That’s why we’ve outlined four lucrative careers (other than becoming an attorney) that you can opt for with a law degree.

1. Intellectual Property Lawyers

Intellectual property has to do with protecting intangible assets such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks. With the rapid expansion of technology and branding, intellectual property lawyers are in high demand, as they protect ideas from being used without authorization. The median annual income is nearly $134,000, and this number goes up to $200,000 depending on the type of industry the company operates in.

2. Members of Congress

If you have a passion for law and are also interested in politics, becoming a member of Congress is also an option. A law degree isn’t necessarily required to make it here, but this has become the most common way to get a head start in the field.

Members of Congress get paid an average income of $174,000 per year, with more senior positions such as Speaker of the House getting paid even more.

3. Law School Professors

If you’re interested in the academic side of the law, a teaching job might just be for you. Law school professors have a median salary of $129,000, and depending on your skill and education, the amount can go up to $196,000.

These jobs offer more steady hours compared to attorney jobs, but the competition is fierce. To get a position in a prestigious law school, you often need some additional experience.

4. Chief Legal Officers (CLOs)

Large corporations often have extensive legal departments in a number of geographical locations. A chief legal officer heads the entire legal department and contributes to the long-term strategic plan of the company.

This position is extremely coveted and requires about 15 years of experience as well as a dep understanding of the industry. CLOs take home a median annual salary of $183,000, with some making as much as $285,000.

If you’re looking for legal jobs, Jobslog currently hosts hundreds of consulting and legal listings. Post your resume now and connect with employers in Colorado.

 Sources:

https://www.thebalancecareers.com/highest-paying-legal-jobs-2164341

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/highest-paying-legal-jobs