Vault Career Guide to Law, Third Edition

Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to companies and individuals regarding hundreds of issues, such as civil rights, criminal offenses, divorce, the environment, mergers and acquisitions, national security, taxation, and many more. They are essential to all major aspects of business and government and often find themselves on the cutting edge of political and social debates, responsible for managing deals involving millions of dollars or even helping to settle life and death questions. In the United States, more than 48,000 law firms comprise a $276 billion-dollar industry. Long considered a safe path to a good career and a strong future, prospects for new lawyers have declined in recent years due to economic setbacks and an abundance of lawyers. However, those with expertise in key practice areas, such as bankruptcy and foreclosure, intellectual property, health care, and labor/employment, are in strong demand. Law remains a very competitive field, with the keys to success including not only a high degree of skill and commitment but also integrity.

The Vault Career Guide to Law, Third Edition provides an insider's perspective on what's happening in the industry, what it takes to break in, and how to advance your career. Whether your goal is to make partner at a national litigation firm or build a solo practice specializing in a key practice area, this guide will help you master every step of your job search.

Vault Career Guides offer an industry insider's view of what it takes to land a job in your chosen profession. Each volume provides a comprehensive overview of the industry and expert advice and tips for uncovering job opportunities, networking, preparing your cover letter and résumé, interviewing, and keeping current on industry news and trends. Interviews and case studies offer behind-the-scenes glimpses of what hiring managers look for in a candidate and how others have succeeded in landing their jobs or advancing their careers. An extensive glossary and resource list put all the industry knowledge you need to succeed at your fingertips. 

Each Vault Career Guide includes:

• The Basics: Everything you need to know about what your industry does, who works in it, and the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the field.
• Making Connections: Practical information on researching potential employers, networking, and getting in the door.
• Careers in This Industry: A look at life on the job and the industry culture.
• Talk Like a Pro: A glossary of industry jargon and key terms.
• Resources: Associations, organizations, websites, and other resources to help you plan and advance your career.