Law careers
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In the legal field, you will utilize your knowledge of human behavior to help clients with a variety of problems.
Since much of the legal field involves negotiating with other people, an understanding of psychology can provide you with a strong foundation and competitive edge.
Learn more from alumni who have gone into this field below.
Learn about successful psychology graduates working in law by clicking the links below.
Interested in a career in law? Check out the resources below.
Paralegal
As a paralegal, you assist in legal work, such as research or interviewing clients. Paralegals can work for lawyers, law offices, corporations, or government agencies.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 290 - Research Methods
- PSY 468 - Psychology and Law
- PSY 368 - Forensic Psychology
- POS 270 - American Legal System
Typical salary: $38,000 - $64,000 per year
Requirements:
- Vary by state and employer.
- Arizona has no set requirements at the state level
An ABA-approved course in paralegal studies may make you a more viable candidate.
Bailiff
As a bailiff, you help run court procedures and maintain order within the courtroom.
Recommended classes:
Typical salary: $32,000 - $60,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Required training varies per state and position
Judicial Law Clerk
As a judicial law clerk, you will work with a judge to research, prepare, and proofread legal documents.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 290 - Research Methods
- PSY 350 - Social Psychology
- PSY 468 - Psychology and Law
- POS 270 - American Legal System
Typical salary: $32,000- $97,000
Job outlook: Expected to increase by 5.5% by 2026
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in the academic field of your choice
- Take the LSAT
- Complete a 3-year Juris Doctor (JD) degree
- Pass the bar
Lawyer
As a lawyer, you could handle anything from business contract negotiations to criminal trials.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 366 - Abnormal Psychology
- PSY 468 - Psychology and Law
- PSY 474 - Correctional Psychology
- POS 270 - American Legal System
Typical salary: $78,000 - $178,000 per year depending on the type of law
Job outlook: Expected to increase by 8% by 2026
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in the academic field of your choice
- 3-year Juris Doctor (JD) degree
- Pass the bar exam
Click here to learn more about the business law focus at Sandra Day O'Connor
Judge
As a judge, you will preside over various cases to advise and administer rulings.
Recommended classes:
- PSY 366 - Abnormal Psychology
- PSY 468 - Psychology and Law
- PSY 474 - Correctional Psychology
- POS 270 - American Legal System
Typical salary: $67,000 - $162,000 per year
Requirements:
- 3-year Juris Doctor (JD) degree with any focus
- Pass the bar and practice as an attorney
- After gaining experience as a lawyer, you may submit your name for consideration to be either appointed or elected as a judge.
Interested in finding an internship or mentor in law? Fill out the form below.
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