Best Law Student Jobs to Make Money During Law School

Law school comes with a hefty price tag—many students graduate burdened with debt, spending years paying it off. This is why it’s important to know which law student jobs are advisable while pursuing a law degree.

The good news is, there are many different ways for law students to earn income while studying. There are both on-campus and off-campus opportunities, many within the legal field itself. Some students may even choose to temporarily step away from their studies to explore non-legal pursuits. A part-time job with minimal hours can complement your studies, offering not only balance but also a fresh perspective on the law.

In this blog, we’ll be sharing insights on how to earn extra income during law school, so you can pursue your law degree while being financially stable.

• What Are the Best Law Student Jobs?
• What Is Law School All About?
• Pros of Working While in Law School
• Cons of Working While in Law School 
• Are Internships Relevant for Law Students?
• Scholarships and Grants in Law School 
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are the Best Law Student Jobs?

Attending law school can be costly, especially if you’re funding it on your own. The average total cost of tuition for law school is $151,072, or $50,357 per year.  

Fortunately, there are several law student jobs to help finance your education while you’re still in school. Below are some suggestions for earning money during your studies.

1. Research or teaching assistant

Law professors often seek students to assist with their academic work—either as research assistants or teaching assistants (TAs). Research assistants help professors with legal scholarship, while TAs are typically students who excelled in a course and assist others new to the subject. 

These positions also offer an opportunity to deepen your knowledge of a specific area. If the course is tested on the bar exam (like Contracts or Civil Procedure), being a TA is a fantastic way to reinforce key concepts and apply them to real-world scenarios—making it one of the best law student jobs.

2. Student representative for companies

With fierce competition among research services and bar prep companies, it’s no surprise that these businesses want to connect with law students early. Many companies hire student representatives to promote events, trainings, discounts, and research tools to their peers. 

This role often involves sharing information and offering incentives like food and giveaways. Working as a rep not only pays but also sharpens your legal research skills as you learn to use the tools you’ll be promoting—making it one of the best law student jobs.

3. Other on-campus jobs

Many law schools and universities hire students for various on-campus roles. These might include tutoring 1L students, working as learning consultants for undergraduates, or serving as community advisors for campus housing.

Note: On-campus job opportunities may not always be well-advertised, so be proactive! Ask upperclassmen, professors, or the career services office to learn more about available positions.

4. Part-time jobs

Depending on your location, there may be many paid opportunities outside of school. Law firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations often hire law students to help with legal research, case preparation, and other tasks. These jobs allow you to gain hands-on experience and observe the legal profession in action—valuable material for your resume and job search.

Also, non-legal jobs like tutoring for academic subjects, LSAT prep, or coaching a debate team can still build essential skills such as communication, logical reasoning, and interpersonal abilities—skills that are crucial for future legal professionals.

5. Summer jobs

Summer is an ideal time to earn money while gaining practical experience. While 1L summer opportunities are often unpaid, many offer stipends or other funding options. Summer jobs for 2Ls are usually paid, with salaries varying by workplace. 

Large law firms typically offer the highest pay for summer associates, while government roles tend to offer the least. Be sure to explore available resources to find the summer job that aligns with your goals.

6. Start your own small business

More and more students are turning their hobbies into small businesses, selling items like greeting cards, artwork, stickers, or baked goods. This can be a flexible way to earn extra income while pursuing something you’re passionate about.

If you have entrepreneurial aspirations, law school may also provide support for using your legal knowledge in innovative ways, such as starting a business or becoming a venture capitalist. Some law schools offer venture funds or summer fellowships to support students with business ideas.

7. Tutoring

You can also earn money by tutoring fellow students or those preparing for the bar exam. By sharing your knowledge and experience, you can help others succeed while earning a reasonable income. Tutoring can also reinforce your own understanding of the material—making it one of the top law student jobs.

Tutoring offers you a great opportunity to earn while leveraging your expertise. You can tutor peers in subjects like Contracts, Torts, and Criminal Law, or help bar exam candidates by offering test-taking strategies, reviewing substantive law, and providing practice exams.

Tutoring can take many forms, including one-on-one sessions, group sessions, or online tutoring. You can promote your services on campus or through online platforms like Craigslist, LinkedIn, or Tutor.com. Reaching out to local law firms or legal clinics may also connect you with students in need of tutoring.

In addition to the financial benefits, tutoring helps you develop essential skills such as communication, teaching, and leadership. It also deepens your own understanding of the law and keeps you updated with legal developments.

However, you need to prioritize your own studies when tutoring. You should ensure your tutoring schedule doesn’t interfere with academic responsibilities, manage their time effectively, and set clear boundaries with clients to prevent burnout.

8. Freelancing

As a law student, you can use your legal skills to earn money by freelancing in various legal fields. You could offer services like legal research, writing, or editing for law firms, individual clients, or online legal platforms. Freelancing also gives you the freedom to work on your own schedule, helping you balance your studies with earning money. This makes freelancing one of the best law student jobs.

One of the biggest advantages of freelancing is flexibility. It allows you to set your own schedule, so you can prioritize your studies while still working. You get to choose which projects to take on and negotiate your rates, giving you more control over your workload.

Aside from the financial perks, freelancing offers the chance to gain practical experience in the legal field. You can apply your legal knowledge and skills to real projects, building your portfolio and expertise along the way. Plus, freelancing helps you develop essential soft skills like communication, time management, and client relations—key assets in the legal profession.

To start freelancing, begin by identifying your strengths and legal expertise. Explore online platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr, which connect freelancers with clients seeking legal services. These platforms offer various opportunities, such as legal writing, research, and transcription.

You can also reach out to local law firms, legal clinics, or non-profit organizations to offer your services. Many firms hire freelancers to handle overflow work, providing you with valuable experience and networking opportunities.

Keep in mind, freelancing requires self-discipline and commitment. You’ll need to manage your time well, meet deadlines, and maintain high-quality work to secure future projects.

What Is Law School All About?

Law school is a postgraduate program that prepares you to take the state bar exam and pursue a career as an attorney, judge, or other legal professional. A full-time law program typically takes about three years to complete. 

To gain admission, you’ll usually need a bachelor’s degree, a strong GPA, and a passing score on either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

During law school, you’ll likely engage in activities such as:

• research
• mock trials
• case studies
• lectures
• group discussions

You may also be required to write papers and complete a final dissertation or thesis before earning your degree. Understanding the demands of a law program can help you determine whether it’s possible to continue working while pursuing your legal education

Pros of Working While in Law School

Here are some potential benefits of working while attending law school:

1. Building your resume

Working in an entry-level legal role, such as a paralegal, legal administrative assistant, or clerk, can boost your chances of securing a job as a lawyer after graduation. Gaining valuable experience during law school makes you a stronger candidate for future positions.

A part-time job with a law firm, courthouse, judge, or private attorney can help you develop essential skills and create a more impressive resume, which can be highly beneficial when you’re looking for a job after law school.

2. Earning income

Many law students face financial obligations, such as making payments on undergraduate student loans or supporting families. Some may prefer to work while in school to avoid accruing more debt. Earning an income while attending law school can help cover expenses like tuition, books, and living costs.

For example, a law student tutor could earn $20 per hour. This could help in buying books and other materials in law school. Being a self-starter entrepreneur in law school could earn as much as up to $69,000 annually. 

3. Improving time management skills

As a lawyer, you’ll need to manage strict deadlines, handle multiple clients, and juggle tasks like gathering evidence, reviewing contracts, and conducting research. Working while attending law school can sharpen your time management skills, as you’ll have to balance classes, studies, mock trials, and internships with your job. Developing these skills now can benefit your future legal career.

4. Taking a break from school

Law school can be demanding, requiring substantial time and effort. Working part-time can provide a break from your studies, giving you a chance to disconnect and focus on something else. This change of pace can reduce feelings of burnout, and earning a steady income can also help alleviate the financial pressure of law school.

5. Expanding your network

Depending on the job you choose, you may have the chance to network with professionals who can help advance your career after law school. Working in the legal field gives you access to experienced lawyers and legal professionals. Even working outside of law can connect you with people from different backgrounds, broadening your network.

Cons of Working While in Law School

However, some challenges come with working while in law school:

1. Interference with internships

Law students typically complete one or more internships during their studies, often over the summer when coursework is lighter. These internships are crucial for gaining hands-on experience in research, paperwork, and assisting attorneys with cases. Success in internships can impact your career prospects after graduation, but working while in law school may interfere with your ability to commit to an internship fully.

2. Potential violation of school policy

Some law programs restrict or prohibit students from working while enrolled. Schools that allow employment may have rules about the number of hours you can work or limit when you can take on jobs. These policies exist to help students focus on their coursework, so it’s important to know your school’s guidelines before seeking employment.

3. Increased stress

Law school is already rigorous, with a heavy workload that leaves little free time. Adding a part-time job may increase your stress, especially during critical periods like finals or major assignments. If working while in law school becomes overwhelming, it might be worth considering a break to focus on your studies and mental health.

Are Internships Relevant for Law Students?

Yes! Many law firms and organizations offer internships, giving you the chance to gain practical experience in the legal field. These internships can be paid or unpaid, but they provide valuable experience and networking opportunities that can be crucial for your career after graduation.

Internships are an excellent way to build real-world experience and expand your professional network. During your internship, you’ll likely work on actual legal cases and projects, gaining firsthand knowledge of the legal industry’s operations. Whether paid or unpaid, these positions allow you to develop practical skills and connect with experienced lawyers, paralegals, and other legal professionals.

Throughout your internship, you may assist with legal research, draft legal documents, attend court hearings, and participate in client meetings. This hands-on experience strengthens your legal knowledge and helps you develop essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management—all highly valued by future employers.

Internships also provide important networking opportunities. You’ll have the chance to build relationships with supervisors and colleagues who could offer references or help you connect with potential employers. The contacts you make during your internship can be invaluable when you’re looking for a job after law school.

To secure an internship, start by researching law firms, legal clinics, and organizations that offer these opportunities. Your school’s career services department can be a great resource, and attending job fairs and networking events can help you find leads. Many law firms and organizations post internships on their websites, so it’s a good idea to regularly check these listings. One notable internship for law students is the World Bank Legal Internship Program.

Keep in mind that some internships may be unpaid, which could be a financial strain. However, some schools offer stipends or grants to support students taking on unpaid internships. Be sure to weigh the benefits of the experience against the financial cost to determine if it’s the right fit for you.

Scholarships and Grants in Law School

You can apply for scholarships and grants to help cover the cost of tuition and living expenses while in law school. Many organizations and foundations offer these opportunities based on factors like academic merit, financial need, and other specific criteria.

Scholarships and grants are an excellent way to reduce the financial burden of law school. Be sure to check with your law school’s financial aid office, as they often offer their own scholarships and grants. You can also explore outside funding sources from professional associations, non-profit organizations, and philanthropic foundations.

One prominent scholarship known for law students in the US is the American Bar Association (ABA) Legal Opportunity Scholarship. This scholarship is specifically designed to support racial and ethnic minority students who plan to pursue a law degree. It provides financial assistance to help recipients pursue their legal education and covers tuition and other related expenses.

It’s a good idea to start researching scholarships and grants early to increase your chances of success. Pay close attention to eligibility requirements, deadlines, and submission guidelines. Some applications may require an essay, resume, or letters of recommendation, so plan ahead and give yourself time to prepare.

Beyond financial support, scholarships and grants can also add prestige to your resume, which can be a significant advantage when applying for jobs or advanced degree programs. Winning one shows potential employers or academic institutions that you’re motivated, dedicated, and capable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you work while in law school?

Yes! As stated above, it’s possible. But keep in mind that it does have its pros and cons. It might also lengthen your stay in law school.

2. How much do you get paid as a lawyer?

The median annual wage for lawyers was $145,760 in May 2023.

3. How long is law school in the US?

Traditionally, it takes three years to finish law school if you’re a full-time student. If you’re working part-time, it could be longer.

Takeaways

• It’s possible to work while pursuing a law degree. Some of the top law student jobs include freelancing, tutoring, and being a teaching assistant.
• Consider the pros and cons when deciding to work while pursuing your law degree.
• Ready to apply to your dream law school? We’re here to help. At AdmissionSight, we have more than ten years’ worth of experience and a 75% success rate in helping students enter their dream university.