Beyond the Courtroom: Profitable Side Gigs for Lawyers

So, you’ve spent years buried in law books, aced those brutal exams, survived the caffeine-fueled all-nighters, and finally, you’ve found your rhythm in the ‘oh-so-intense’ world of law. The courtroom drama, the adrenaline rush of a hard-fought victory – it’s all become your second nature. But hey, who said that’s all there is?

Now, imagine this. What if you could stretch your legal wings beyond the courtroom? Perhaps, put your skills to use in fresh, innovative ways that not only give you a change of scene, but also fill up your pockets? Sounds like a dream, right?

Well, it’s time to stop dreaming and start living it! We’re about to take a detour from the beaten path and journey into some lesser-known, but seriously profitable, territories that are just perfect for folks like us – those blessed with an abundance of legal knowledge.

So, grab your gavel, adjust your robes, and let’s hop on this tour ‘Beyond the Courtroom.’ Get ready to explore side gigs for lawyers that are not just exciting, but also offer some sweet financial rewards. Buckle up, my friends, because this ride is going to be a revelation.

Why Should Lawyers Even Bother with a Side Hustle?

I hear you asking, “I’ve already got a high-stress, high-stakes job that keeps me busy round the clock. Why on Earth would I want to add something else to my plate?” Well, my fellow advocate, it’s a fair question. But the truth is, the benefits of starting a side hustle can outweigh the challenges. Let’s delve deeper into why you should consider it:

Extra Money Equals Freedom

Let’s address the most obvious reason first – making money elsewhere. As a lawyer, you’re no stranger to the concept of billable hours. Imagine if every extra hour you worked didn’t just go towards your firm’s bottom line but directly into your pocket. That extra income could pay off your law school debt sooner, create an emergency fund, or even bankroll a vacation. With a side hustle, your earning potential is no longer tied to your salary alone.

Diversify Your Income

There’s a saying that “you shouldn’t put all your eggs in one basket”, and that applies to income too. Having a diversified income stream is like a safety net; if your main job hits a rocky patch, you’ll have something to fall back on. A side gig can provide a buffer, making you more resilient in uncertain times.

Grow Beyond Your Day Job

A side hustle can also offer a creative outlet and professional growth outside your regular work environment. You’re not just an attorney; you could be an attorney who writes captivating legal thrillers, a tax law expert who runs a successful YouTube channel, or a human rights lawyer who creates impactful social campaigns. Your skills are versatile, and a side hustle gives you a platform to showcase them.

Test Drive Your Entrepreneurial Dreams

Do you dream of starting your own law firm or launching a legal tech startup? A side hustle can be a low-risk way to dip your toes into the entrepreneurial waters. You can learn the ropes of running a business while still having the security of your full-time job.

Expand Your Network and Personal Brand

Side hustles can put you in front of new audiences and help you build your personal brand beyond your existing circle. This can lead to exciting collaborations, unexpected opportunities, and even new clients.

So, while the prospect of taking on additional work might seem daunting, remember that a side hustle is more than just extra work. It’s an opportunity to grow personally, professionally, and financially, on your own terms.

15 Best Side Hustles for Lawyers and Attorneys

We’ve dived deep into why embracing a side hustle can be a fantastic move for your career, finances, and personal growth. But with the world of side gigs as vast as the ocean, you might be wondering, “Which one’s right for me?” Well, we’ve got you covered! In this section, we’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour of 15 of the most promising, profitable, and, most importantly, enjoyable side hustles tailored specifically for lawyers and attorneys.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill part-time gigs. Each one taps into your unique skills and expertise, turning them into an income stream that complements your day job. So, whether you’re into writing, teaching, consulting, or even a little mystery and intrigue, buckle up and get ready for some inspiration.

College Lecturer: Share Your Legal Wisdom

Have you ever considered standing at the front of a lecture hall, imparting your legal wisdom to the lawyers of tomorrow? Becoming a college lecturer might just be the side hustle you’ve been waiting for.

What Does This Job Entail?

As a lawyer-turned-college-lecturer, your job would involve teaching law-related courses to eager college students. Whether it’s constitutional law, criminal law, business law, or ethics, your real-world experience can bring these subjects to life in a way a textbook never could.

You could be conducting lectures, grading papers, creating coursework, and guiding students through complex legal topics. It’s a chance to give back to your profession while influencing the next generation of legal minds. But the best part? This gig can usually fit around your work schedule, with evening and weekend classes often available.

So, How Do You Get Started?

Here’s a simple roadmap to help you kickstart your journey:

1. Evaluate Your Expertise: First, identify what areas of law you’re most skilled in and passionate about. Colleges appreciate experts who can bring depth to their subject matter, so make sure you choose a field you’re truly versed in.

2. Reach Out to Local Colleges: Start by reaching out to local colleges and universities. They are often on the lookout for adjunct faculty with real-world experience. Send them your resume, highlighting your law experience and any teaching experience you may have.

3. Prepare a Sample Lesson Plan: Institutions may want to see a sample lesson plan or hear your teaching philosophy. Brush up on current teaching methods and think about how you’d translate your legal knowledge into engaging, understandable lectures.

4. Start Small: Consider starting with a guest lecture or seminar. This can give you a feel for the academic environment without committing to a full course.

5. Network: Attend academic conferences and networking events. This can open doors to opportunities and help you meet influential people in the field.

Freelance Legal Writing: Pen Your Expertise

Can you translate complex legal jargon into clear, understandable language? If so, it might be time to tap into the world of freelance legal writing. This side hustle is perfect for lawyers with a flair for the written word and the ability to break down complicated subjects.

What Does This Job Entail?

As a freelance legal writer, your role revolves around writing articles, blog posts, white papers, and even ebooks on various legal topics. Your audience could range from law firms and legal tech companies to everyday individuals who need understandable legal advice.

Topics could include explaining legal procedures, commenting on recent law changes, offering insights on landmark cases, or even writing about legal career advice. With this gig, your words could become a lifeline for someone struggling to navigate the labyrinth of law.

So, How Do You Get Started?

If the idea of becoming a freelance legal writer piques your interest, here’s a roadmap to kickstart your journey:

1. Identify Your Niche: Just as with law, legal writing has numerous niches. Whether it’s family law, intellectual property, corporate law, or legal tech, pick a niche that aligns with your expertise and interest.

2. Create a Portfolio: Build a portfolio of your writing samples. You can start by writing a few pieces on your selected topics. If you’ve already written legal documents or briefs, those can also showcase your skills (make sure to remove any confidential information).

3. Join Freelance Platforms: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and even LinkedIn can be excellent starting points to find freelance legal writing gigs. You can also consider specialized platforms such as Lawclerk where law firms outsource their legal research and writing tasks.

4. Reach Out to Potential Clients: Identify law firms, legal blogs, and companies that hire freelance writers and send them a pitch, along with your writing samples.

5. Set Your Rates: As a lawyer, your expertise can command higher rates than general freelance writers. Research the legal industry market to set competitive yet profitable rates.

Delivery Driver for DoorDash: Make Money on Your Schedule

Attorneys are known for their long, unpredictable hours. But what if there’s a way to make money in your downtime, on your terms? That’s where becoming a delivery driver for DoorDash comes in. This popular gig economy job offers a flexible side hustle that can perfectly complement your lawyering life.

What Does This Job Entail?

As a DoorDash delivery driver, also known as a Dasher, your job is straightforward. You pick up food orders from restaurants and deliver them to customers’ homes. All the orders and routes are handled via the DoorDash app, meaning you just have to follow the GPS and enjoy the ride.

But, unlike a 9-to-5, you set your hours. Got a gap between court appointments? Time to spare on a weekend? You can log into the app, start accepting orders, and begin earning.

How Do You Get Started?

Becoming a Dasher doesn’t require any legal briefs or objections. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Meet the Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, insurance, a clean driving record, and a car (or bike in some cities).

2. Apply Online: Visit the DoorDash website or download the app and fill out the application form. It’s simple and straightforward, unlike filing a motion.

3. Complete the Onboarding Process: After applying, you’ll need to consent to a background check. Once that’s cleared, you’ll have to attend an orientation (online in most areas).

4. Get Your Gear: You’ll receive a DoorDash welcome kit that includes a hot bag to keep food warm and a card for payment.

5. Start Dashing: Now it’s time to hit the road. Log into the app, see available orders, and start earning on your schedule.

Starting a Legal Podcast: Share Your Insights, Grow Your Influence

For those with a knack for public speaking and a desire to share their legal knowledge far and wide, starting a podcast can be an ideal side hustle. It not only generates income but also helps you build your personal brand and network within the legal community.

What Does This Job Entail?

When you start a legal podcast, you’re essentially becoming a broadcaster, a curator of legal ideas and debates. The subjects are endless – you can dive deep into landmark cases, discuss legal ethics, or decode complex laws for the layman. The magic lies in your unique perspective and the value you bring to your audience.

A podcast is also a platform where you can invite other attorneys, industry experts, or even past clients to discuss various topics, making it a great networking tool. And the best part? You can do it all on your own time and from the comfort of your own home (or law office).

How Do You Get Started?

Starting a podcast might seem daunting at first, but it’s simpler than you think. Here are the steps:

1. Pick Your Niche: This could be based on your legal specialization, an aspect of law you’re passionate about, or a legal theme you think needs more attention.

2. Plan Your Content: Create a rough list of topics for your first few episodes. Think about potential guests you’d like to invite. Remember, variety keeps listeners coming back for more.

3. Get the Right Equipment: To start, you’ll need a good quality microphone, headphones, and recording/editing software. Good audio quality is key to attracting and retaining listeners.

4. Record and Edit Your Episode: Script your episodes (especially the introduction and conclusion), then record and edit. Be sure to remove any distracting sounds or long pauses.

5. Publish and Promote: Choose a podcast hosting platform to publish your episodes. Then, promote your podcast on your social media, website, and amongst your network.

Starting Your Own Lawyer YouTube Channel: Reach a Global Audience with Your Expertise

If you enjoy sharing your knowledge and have a flair for being in front of a camera, creating a lawyer YouTube channel might be the ideal side gig for you. With more and more people turning to YouTube for information on various topics, there’s a vast audience waiting to hear from experts like you.

What Does This Job Entail?

Being a YouTube content creator means you are producing videos on legal topics that are of interest to you and your potential viewers. This could range from explaining complex legal concepts in layman’s terms, discussing recent high-profile cases, giving legal advice on common problems, or even offering tips to aspiring lawyers.

One significant advantage of this side hustle is that it offers a lot of flexibility. You can create and upload content at your own pace and according to your own schedule. Also, it allows you to reach a global audience and build your personal brand.

How Do You Get Started?

Starting a YouTube channel may seem like a daunting task at first, but it can be broken down into manageable steps:

1. Define Your Content: Decide what kind of legal content you want to provide. Are you going to focus on legal advice, commentary on current cases, or career advice for law students? Having a clear focus will help attract the right audience.

2. Create Your Channel: It’s straightforward to set up your YouTube channel through your Google account. Remember to add a professional-looking profile picture and channel banner, and write a clear, concise channel description.

3. Gather Your Equipment: To start, you’ll need a good camera (a smartphone will suffice in the beginning), a microphone, and video editing software.

4. Plan and Create Your Videos: Start by outlining your video’s content, then script, record, and edit. Pay attention to the lighting and sound quality to ensure your video is professional and enjoyable to watch.

5. Upload and Promote: Once you’ve edited your video to your satisfaction, it’s time to upload it to your channel. Be sure to write a clear, keyword-rich title and description to help viewers find your content. Share your videos on your social media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Remember, building a successful YouTube channel takes time and consistency, so be patient and keep creating and sharing content that you are passionate about. It can be a fun and profitable side hustle that also enhances your reputation in the legal world.

Here is more information on how to start a YouTube channel.

Leading Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Sessions: Give Back and Grow

When it comes to side gigs that provide value not just to you, but also to your legal profession, leading Continuing Legal Education (CLE) sessions is a prime example. As a seasoned lawyer, you’re uniquely positioned to share your knowledge and expertise with others in your field. Let’s delve into what this entails and how you can get started.

What Does This Job Entail?

In most states, lawyers are required to complete a certain number of CLE hours each year to maintain their licensure. These sessions are intended to keep legal professionals abreast of recent developments in law and best practices.

As a CLE instructor, you’ll develop and deliver presentations on a specific area of law. This could be anything from a recent change in legislation, a fascinating court ruling, or even a comprehensive overview of your legal practice area.

This side hustle won’t just earn you some extra money; it’ll also enhance your reputation, build your network, and can be extremely rewarding as you’re playing a direct role in improving your profession’s overall quality.

How Do You Get Started?

Stepping into the world of CLE instruction can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Identify Your Niche: What area of law are you most proficient in? What topics can you confidently speak about? Having a clear focus will help you provide valuable content to your audience.

2. Develop Your Course Material: Plan your presentation carefully. It should be thorough, up-to-date, and engaging. Utilize visual aids where necessary and prepare to answer any potential questions from attendees.

3. Register With CLE Providers: Different states have different CLE requirements, so start by checking with your state’s bar association for their specific process. You might need to submit your course outline and credentials for approval.

4. Promote Your CLE Session: Once your course is approved, it’s time to let people know about it. Use your network, social media platforms, and any relevant legal forums to spread the word.

5. Deliver With Confidence: When it’s time to deliver your CLE session, make sure you’re well-prepared, speak clearly, and engage with your audience.

Teach LSAT Test and Bar Exam Prep Courses: Empower the Next Legal Eagles

Navigating the world of LSATs and Bar exams is a rite of passage every lawyer has gone through. Your experiences, strategies, and insights could be invaluable to many lawyers and those about to embark on this journey. Let’s look at how teaching LSAT test and Bar exam prep courses can be a fantastic side hustle for you.

What Does This Job Entail?

As an LSAT and Bar exam tutor, you’ll be working closely with law students to help them grasp the concepts and strategies necessary to pass these challenging tests. Your job will involve explaining complex legal principles, creating mock tests, and providing guidance on how to best approach different sections of the exams.

What’s more, you’ll have the satisfaction of playing a significant role in shaping the careers of aspiring attorneys. Nothing beats the sense of accomplishment when your students excel in their tests, knowing that you contributed to their success.

How Do You Get Started?

Getting started as an LSAT and Bar exam tutor is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you kickstart this rewarding side hustle:

1. Brush Up Your Knowledge: Go through the current LSAT and Bar exam syllabuses. Laws and examination formats might have changed since you last took these tests, so ensure you’re up to date.

2. Develop a Curriculum: Structure your online course itself to cover all the topics in the syllabus. Consider including mock tests, time management techniques, and tips for stress management during the exams.

3. Register with Tutoring Platforms: There are plenty of online platforms like Tutor.com and Wyzant where you can offer your services. You could also consider setting up your own website to attract students.

4. Spread the Word: Use your network, both online and offline, to let people know about your tutoring services. Recommendations and testimonials from past students can be very effective.

5. Start Tutoring: Once you have students, it’s time to start teaching. Be patient, supportive, and adaptable to different learning styles.

Teach Adjunct Law School Courses: Share Your Legal Acumen

From shaping legal minds to influencing the next generation of law practitioners, teaching adjunct law school courses provides you with an opportunity to directly contribute to the future of law while making a neat side income. Here’s what you need to know about this side hustle.

What Does This Job Entail?

As an adjunct law professor, you’d be taking on a part-time teaching position at a law school. You’d typically be teaching a specialized course related to your area of expertise. It could range from corporate law to environmental law or any other legal field you are knowledgeable in.

This side hustle not only gives you the chance to share your legal know-how with eager students but also keeps you fresh in your area of expertise. Teaching is also a great way to refine your own understanding and perspective on complex legal concepts.

How Do You Get Started?

Breaking into the world of adjunct teaching can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Have a Clear Idea of What You Can Teach: You need to pinpoint your area(s) of expertise. Law schools will be interested in what unique courses you could offer that would enrich their curriculum.

2. Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight your professional achievements, your expertise, and your passion for teaching. Be sure to show why you would be a valuable asset to their faculty.

3. Network: Reach out to local law schools and express your interest in becoming an adjunct professor. Attend networking events and establish connections with faculty members and administrators.

4. Apply: Law schools often post adjunct faculty positions on their websites. Keep an eye out for these listings and apply when they come up.

5. Prepare for the Interview: If you’ve caught the attention of a law school, they’ll likely want to interview you. Be prepared to talk about your legal career, your expertise, and your teaching philosophy.

6. Start Teaching: Once hired, prepare your course outline and get ready to inspire a new generation of lawyers.

Teaching adjunct law school courses can be an enriching experience that enables you to make a difference in the legal community while earning extra money. Sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it?

Become a Legal Consultant: Provide Expert Legal Advice

In the world of side hustles, becoming a legal consultant stands out for its potential for high earnings and for its direct application of your legal skills. As a lawyer, you’re well positioned to provide advice on complex legal matters. Here’s what you need to know to get started in legal consultancy.

What Does This Job Entail?

A top legal professional or consultant essentially provides expert legal advice to organizations or individuals. You could offer your services on a contractual basis to businesses, legal firms, non-profit organizations, or even government agencies. The job could involve advising on legal matters, reviewing contracts and legal documents, guiding policy-making, and more.

Legal consultants may specialize in certain areas of law such as business law, real estate, intellectual property, or any other field where there’s demand for expert legal counsel and consultation.

How Do You Get Started?

Transitioning from practicing law to consulting might sound like a big leap, but it can be smoother than you’d expect. Here’s how:

1. Identify Your Area of Specialization: Your area of expertise as a lawyer is going to be your greatest asset as a legal consultant. Identify what it is and leverage it.

2. Set Up Your Business: Whether you’re planning on freelancing or starting a consultancy firm, you’ll need to register your business.

3. Develop a Business Plan: Outline your services, identify your target market, and come up with a pricing strategy.

4. Build a Network: Reach out to your existing contacts. Let them know about your new venture. Attend industry events and network with potential clients.

5. Market Your Services: Build a website, use social media, or leverage LinkedIn to showcase your expertise and services.

6. Start Consulting: Once you’ve landed your first client, it’s all about delivering top-notch service and building your reputation in the field.

Become a Member of a Board: Contributing Legal Expertise

Joining a board can be a rewarding side hustle for lawyers that can provide not only a decent income but also the opportunity to contribute to an organization or cause you’re passionate about. Lawyers are highly sought after for board roles because of their legal acumen, critical thinking skills, and adherence to ethical standards. Here’s what you need to know to start this side hustle.

What Does This Job Entail?

As a board member, you’re part of a group of individuals that oversees the functioning of an organization. This could be a corporation, non-profit organization, or a government board. Your role may include:

• Participating in regular meetings.
• Making high-level decisions.
• Providing strategic direction.
• Ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Offering legal advice.

In non-profit boards, the roles are often voluntary, but many for-profit corporations offer compensation to their board members.

How Do You Get Started?

Getting onto a board isn’t something that happens overnight, but with strategic planning, you can make it happen. Here’s how:

1. Identify Your Interest: What kind of organization do you want to serve? Are you passionate about a specific cause or industry?

2. Gain Relevant Experience: If you’re aiming for a corporate board, having leadership experience, industry knowledge, and a good reputation in your field can be valuable.

3. Network: Getting onto a board often comes down to who you know. Attend industry events, engage with key players in your field, and let them know about your interest in board roles.

4. Develop Your Board CV: Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements relevant to a board role. Include any previous board or governance roles you have had.

5. Apply: Once you’ve identified a potential board position, put forward your application. Be sure to tailor it to the specific requirements of the role.

6. Prepare for the Interview: If you’re shortlisted, prepare thoroughly for the interview. Demonstrate how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the board.

Remember, being on a board requires a significant commitment, but it can be a rewarding side hustle that allows you to use your legal skills in a new context and contribute to an organization in a meaningful way.

Start a Legal Blog or Niche Website: Share Your Legal Expertise with the World

Have you ever considered sharing your legal insights and expertise with the world? Starting a legal blog or niche website could be the perfect side hustle for you. It’s a way to combine your passion for law with a potential revenue stream. Here’s how to get started:

What Does This Job Entail?

Starting a legal blog or niche website involves creating and publishing content on a specific area of law. This could be anything from personal injury law to intellectual property law, depending on your area of expertise. Your role would include:

• Writing and publishing articles.
• Researching latest legal developments.
• Engaging with your audience via comments or emails.
• Managing the website (or hiring someone to do it).
• Marketing your website to attract readers.

It’s a flexible side hustle that you can work on in your free time, and it has the potential to bring in passive income through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling products/services.

How Do You Get Started?

If you’re considering starting a legal blog or niche website, follow these steps:

1. Identify Your Niche: Choose an area of law you’re passionate about and that has an audience interested in learning more.

2. Plan Your Content: Brainstorm topics that will provide value to your audience. This could be explaining complex legal concepts, providing legal advice, or discussing recent cases and legal news.

3. Set Up Your Website: You don’t need advanced technical skills to start a website nowadays. Platforms like WordPress make it easy to create and customize a website.

4. Create and Publish Content: Start writing your articles. Aim for clarity and simplicity – remember, your readers are likely to be laypersons, not legal experts.

5. Market Your Website: Use social media, SEO, and networking to draw readers to your website.

6. Monetize Your Website: Once you’ve built up a solid reader base, look into ways to monetize your website. This could be through advertising, affiliate marketing, selling eBooks, or offering legal consultation services.

Creating a successful blog or niche website takes time, patience, and consistent effort. But with commitment, you can build a side hustle that brings value to your readers and provides a solid stream of extra income for you.

Answer Legal Questions Online: Use Your Expertise to Help Others

If you enjoy helping people and have a knack for explaining complex legal concepts in a way that anyone can understand, then answering legal questions online might be the ideal side hustle for you. It’s a flexible job that you can do from anywhere, at any time. Here’s what you need to know:

What Does This Job Entail?

Platforms such as Avvo, JustAnswer, and LegalAdvice subreddit provide a space for individuals to ask legal questions and get answers from other qualified and trained lawyers and professionals. Your role as a lawyer would be to browse through the questions, provide accurate and helpful answers, and occasionally follow up for more details or clarification.

It’s a great way to use your knowledge and experience to help people who can’t afford or don’t need full legal services. Plus, you get to choose which questions to answer, so you can stick to your areas of expertise.

How Do You Get Started?

Here’s a simple guide to get started as an online legal advisor:

1. Choose a Platform: Research various platforms that allow lawyers to answer legal questions. Some platforms might pay you for each answer, while others might allow you to generate leads for your practice.

2. Set Up Your Profile: Make your profile as attractive as possible. Include your areas of expertise, years of experience, and any notable cases you’ve handled.

3. Start Answering Questions: Browse through the questions, select the ones you’re confident in answering, and provide clear and concise responses. Remember to disclaim that your answers are not legal advice but general information.

4. Build a Reputation: The more questions you answer accurately, the better your reputation becomes. This can lead to more questions, and on some platforms, better pay.

Answering legal questions online isn’t likely to make you a fortune, but it’s a good way to generate some extra income while helping others. It’s also a flexible side hustle that you can do whenever you have some free time.

Sell Test Prep Resources: Leverage Your Legal Expertise

If you have a knack for teaching and enjoy helping law students succeed, selling test prep resources could be a profitable and satisfying side hustle for you. You’ve already navigated the legal education system, so why not leverage that experience and knowledge to help others do the same?

What Does This Job Entail?

As a seller of test prep resources, your primary task would be to develop comprehensive, easy-to-understand study materials to help law students prepare for their exams. This could include:

• LSAT practice questions and solutions
• Bar exam outlines and flashcards
• Sample legal documents for mock trials
• Video lectures explaining complex legal principles

The key is to create high-quality content that law students find valuable and worth paying for.

How Do You Get Started?

Here’s a basic roadmap to launch your test prep resources business:

1. Identify a Need: Start by identifying what students struggle with the most. You can do this by talking to current law students, browsing law student forums, or reflecting on your own experiences.

2. Create Your Content: Based on the needs you’ve identified, start creating your materials. Aim for clarity, depth, and precision. Include practical tips and strategies you used or wish you knew when you were studying.

3. Choose Your Selling Platform: Decide where you want to sell your resources. This could be on your own website, a platform like Etsy, or a dedicated educational resource site like Teachers Pay Teachers.

4. Price Your Materials: Decide on a fair price for your materials. Consider the time and effort you put into creating them, but also keep in mind what your target audience is willing and able to pay.

5. Market Your Materials: Use social media, legal forums, and word of mouth to promote your products. You could also offer a few free resources to give people a taste of the quality of your materials.

Selling test prep resources allows you to not only generate additional income but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of law students. Plus, as you refine and expand your resources, you’ll continue to earn income from work you’ve already done.

Sell Legal Forms or Templates: Streamline Legal Processes

Legal paperwork can be intimidating, complex, and time-consuming for both legal professionals and laypeople. By selling legal forms or templates, you can simplify these processes and provide a valuable resource while capitalizing on your legal expertise.

What Does This Job Entail?

The core of this side hustle is creating user-friendly, legally sound templates for various legal forms. These could range from basic wills and leases to more specialized documents like shareholder agreements or employment contracts. Your goal is to simplify and streamline the legal process for your customers.

How Do You Get Started?

To start your business selling legal forms or templates, follow these steps:

1. Choose Your Niche: Decide on what types of legal forms or templates you want to sell. You might choose an area that aligns with your expertise or where you see a strong demand.

2. Develop Your Templates: Begin creating your templates. Make sure they are legally sound, clear, and easy for non-lawyers to understand and use.

3. Create Your Platform: Decide where you will sell your forms or templates. This could be a website that you create or a marketplace platform like Etsy.

4. Price Your Templates: Set a fair price for your templates. Consider factors like the complexity of the form, the time it took you to create, and what similar products are priced at.

5. Promote Your Business: Use social media, legal forums, and other promotional strategies to spread the word about your products.

Selling legal forms or templates is an excellent way to use your legal knowledge to meet a widespread need and earn additional income. Plus, once you’ve created a template, it can continue generating revenue with no additional work from you.

Write a Legal Book or E-Book: Share Your Expertise

Lawyers are known for their skill in navigating complex legal systems and communicating intricate laws. Why not harness these abilities, combined with your unique experiences and insights, to write a legal book or e-book? Not only can this provide a creative outlet, but it also offers a way to supplement your income.

What Does This Job Entail?

Writing a legal book or e-book involves taking a deep dive into a specific area of law, legal skill, or legal experience and sharing your knowledge in a comprehensive, yet accessible, manner. Whether it’s a guide for first-year law students, a book about landmark cases in your field, or an e-book on how to navigate a specific legal process, there are endless possibilities.

How Do You Get Started?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started:

1. Choose Your Topic: Reflect on your expertise and interests, as well as what might be of interest or help to others. Is there a gap in the market for a book on a particular legal subject or process? Do you have unique experiences that you believe others could learn from?

2. Outline Your Book: Once you have a topic, create a detailed outline. This will guide your writing and ensure you cover all the necessary areas.

3. Start Writing: It’s time to start writing! Don’t worry about making it perfect on the first go – focus on getting your ideas down first.

4. Edit and Refine: Review your work, ensuring that your explanations are clear and easy to understand, even for those without legal training.

5. Publish Your Book: You can choose to self-publish or find a publisher for your book. For an e-book, platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy to reach a wide audience.

6. Market Your Book: Use your networks, social media platforms, and other marketing strategies to promote your book.

Writing a legal book or e-book is an excellent opportunity for lawyers to impart their knowledge, build their personal brand, and create a passive income stream. Just remember, the process requires time, dedication, and patience.

Here’s more information on how to make money writing a non-fiction book.

How Much Money Can Lawyers Make From Side Hustles?

While the appeal of a side hustle often lies in the potential for extra income, the question remains: how much can you actually make from these endeavors? It’s important to note that earnings from side hustles can vary dramatically based on several factors. These include the type of side hustle you’re involved in, the amount of time you’re able to dedicate to it, and the specific skills and expertise you bring to the table.

In general, lawyers looking to engage in side hustles can expect a wide range of potential income. On the lower end of the spectrum, activities like participating in a delivery service or answering legal questions online might bring in a few extra hundred dollars per month. This could be ideal for those seeking a relatively low commitment option that still yields additional income.

However, for those willing to invest more time and utilize their specialized knowledge, the earning potential can be significantly greater. Activities like teaching law school courses, legal consulting, or even becoming a board member can yield earnings in the thousands or tens of thousands per year. And if your side hustle takes off, there’s always the possibility it could replace your main income.

It’s also worth mentioning that, while financial gain is a significant aspect of side hustles, they also offer other benefits. This includes the potential for personal fulfillment, the chance to expand your skill set, and the ability to create a safety net against job market volatility.

So, while the monetary rewards of a side hustle can be significant, it’s not the only consideration when deciding whether to pursue a secondary source of income. With a bit of effort and creativity, a side hustle can prove to be an enriching and rewarding endeavor.

Conclusion

In the legal field, the opportunities for side hustles are vast and varied. Whether you’re an experienced attorney with a wealth of specialized knowledge or a newcomer looking to expand your skills and increase your income, there’s likely a side hustle that aligns with your interests and goals.

From doing legal transcription, teaching law school courses and freelance writing, to starting a podcast or selling legal templates, the choice is yours. It’s all about leveraging your expertise and finding a balance that works for you. Now let’s tackle some common questions to further clear the path towards your side gig as a lawyer.

FAQ – Side Gigs for Lawyers