The legal profession is constantly evolving as attorneys adapt to the changing needs of the clients and entities they represent. Spurred on by technology, innovation and ever-changing laws and regulations, many lawyers are now specializing in novel fields unheard of when they first graduated from law school. And, for new attorneys entering the workforce, these up-and-coming legal specialties offer promising hiring opportunities, as many now face attorney shortages. Whether it’s in private practice, at a firm, or as a corporate in-house counselor, most of these sub-specialties are here to stay. For attorneys, here are 8 of the hottest ones to consider when planning a career.
1. Healthcare Law
This field has grown exponentially ever since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed, with no signs of slowing down. Healthcare private practice attorneys, and those who work for the government or corporations, are highly in-demand. Healthcare attorneys are currently needed by:
- The Federal government for Medicare fraud and ACA compliance actions
- Corporations of all sizes to ensure ACA compliance
- Universities, pharmaceutical and biotech companies
- Patients
- Clinics
- Hospitals
- Individual practitioners
- Insurance companies
- Healthcare consortiums
2. Intellectual Property (IP) Law
Protecting the tangible and intangible creation rights of inventors, authors, entertainers, and businesses is the job of an intellectual property (IP) attorney. The explosive growth of the Internet, blockchain technology, digital reproduction, and transmission has fueled a growing need for IP lawyers.
Many IP legal specialists then sub-specialize in certain domains, like biotechnology, international trade law, or FDA regulatory issues. Trademark, patent, and copyright IP lawyers continue to be among the most sought-after in the profession. Recently, the debate over copyrighting AI-generated works has highlighted the evolving complexities in IP law, as generative AI reshapes how we understand creative ownership.
3. Labor and Employment (L&E) Law
Helping maintain a peaceful relationship between employers and their employees is what labor and employment (L&E) attorneys do. Technology, new workplace models, evolving labor laws, and wages and compensation changes all influence a L&E lawyer’s responsibilities. Labor practice areas where L&E lawyers could be asked to represent unions, employers, employees, or individual clients include:
- Government regulatory issues
- Gender, disability or age discrimination disputes
- Harassment cases
- Collective bargaining negotiations
4. Trial Law
Okay, this is not a new specialty. But good trial lawyers don’t grow on trees, and this continues to be one of the hottest practice areas in the profession. Established trial attorneys are one of the highest paid of all specialties, and many begin their careers as public interest litigators or solo practitioners. Trial law is a highly marketable sub-specialty, as gifted trial lawyers can earn a very comfortable living working in-house at a corporation, for the government, at a large firm, or on their own in private practice.
5. Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Law
We live in the Internet Age, a reality cemented by daily reports of data breaches and the hacking of personal information from company databases. In this context, the role of data privacy and cybersecurity lawyers has become indispensable. Globally, the enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) demands stringent compliance, while in the U.S., a patchwork of state-level privacy laws adds to the complexity of the legal landscape.
These lawyers ensure that companies across healthcare, government, banking, and financial sectors not only comply with these evolving regulations but also implement best practices in data security to safeguard against and respond to cyber threats. Furthermore, they are vital in litigating cases on behalf of individuals whose information has been compromised, advocating for consumer rights in the digital realm. As technology continues to advance, the demand for legal expertise in data privacy and cybersecurity is expected to grow, reflecting the critical need for protection in a world where data is currency.
6. Space and Aviation Law
Space and aviation law addresses the complex legal aspects of airspace and outer space activities, including advising on international space treaties and space resource mining laws. Lawyers specializing in this area also manage FAA compliance and address liability issues for commercial drone operators. As commercial space travel burgeons and drones become increasingly prevalent across various industries, the need for specialized legal expertise in space and aviation law is more significant than ever. These attorneys ensure compliance with federal and international regulations, paving the way for innovation and safety in aerospace ventures.
7. Immigration Law
Immigration law is crucial for corporations that require assistance with the complex visa processes necessary to employ foreign workers, thereby ensuring global talent mobility. Attorneys in this field also represent individuals and families in delicate asylum or deportation proceedings, advocating for their legal status and rights. As immigration policies continue to change, the demand for knowledgeable legal professionals in this area remains robust. Immigration attorneys play an essential role in facilitating cross-border employment and protecting human rights, making them vital to both corporate and individual clients navigating the nuances of immigration law.
8. Elder Law
Elder law is increasingly critical as the population ages. This legal specialty addresses the needs of older adults and their families, focusing on drafting wills, trusts, and power-of-attorney documents to secure their financial futures. Elder law attorneys also provide counsel on long-term care planning and are actively involved in litigation concerning elder abuse. Their work ensures the protection of the elderly’s rights and dignity, offering peace of mind to families and individuals planning for the later stages of life. This field is expanding as the demographic shift towards an older population continues.
Better Legal Recruiters Understand Change
If your firm or company currently finds itself in need of an experienced attorney to fill a position in any of these sub-specialties, it can be difficult to locate the right candidates. Or, as a talented lawyer with a track record excelling within one of these practice areas, you may be looking to move but need assistance searching for the job opportunity you want.
In either scenario, an experienced legal recruiter might be just what you need. Better legal recruiters understand changes in the profession, including sub-specialties that are currently most in-demand. They use their nationwide legal connections, resources, and technology to place viable attorney candidates into employment settings that best fit both parties’ needs. To learn more about how a legal recruiter could assist you, or to find a good legal recruiter in your area, visit: The Legal Recruiter Directory now.
