Practice Areas and Positions in Demand

Q: I’m thinking of making a job transition, and I’d like to work in a different industry. I might also consider going to a law firm if the right opportunity came along. To help me determine which of my skills are most valuable now, can you tell me which practice areas are in demand? Also, what about specific positions?

A: When Robert Half Legal recently asked lawyers which areas of law they though will experience the most growth in the next 12 months, most pointed to bankruptcy and litigation. The economic downturn and other repercussions of the global financial crisis are expected to result in additional government regulation and an uptick in litigation of all kinds.

Other specialties that are generating demand for legal services and resulting in employment opportunities for experienced legal professionals include:

Intellectual property and patents – An increase in patent prosecution has heightened the need for attorneys with three or more years of trademark or patent experience.

Healthcare – The healthcare sector, especially biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, continues to generate steady demand for legal services.

Energy/environmental – As “green” initiatives and the quest for alternative energy sources gain traction, demand for attorneys with experience in these areas is expected to pick up.

Contracts and licensing – Corporate legal departments have an ongoing need for lawyers with experience in contracts and licensing, as well as contract administrators.

Corporate counsel – Attorneys with at least three years of experience in transactional, litigation and regulatory law are being recruited by companies to help them address ongoing requirements and reduce reliance on outside counsel.