Legal & Compliance

Law Teacher

SOC 25-1112.00 · ESCO 2310

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Role snapshot

Overview

Teaches legal theory, case analysis, and professional ethics to university students. Prepares and delivers lectures, leads seminar discussions, develops and grades examinations, and conducts and publishes scholarly research on legal topics. Mentors students and contributes to academic service.

Shapes the next generation of legal professionals by imparting critical legal knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical foundations, contributing to the development of legal scholarship and the justice system.

On the job

  • Prepare and deliver engaging lectures on complex legal subjects, ensuring clarity and depth.
  • Design and lead interactive seminar discussions, moot court simulations, and practical exercises.
  • Develop, administer, and grade examinations, research papers, and legal briefs to assess student learning.
  • Conduct original legal research, analyze findings, and publish scholarly articles or books in peer-reviewed venues.
  • Advise and mentor law students on academic progress, career paths, and research projects.
Law Teacher at work

Tools & technology

LexisNexisWestlawMicrosoft PowerPointLearning Management Systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard)Academic publishing software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley)

Average salary

$120K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$80K Bottom 10%
$180K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A Juris Doctor (JD) degree is typically required for law teachers, and many positions, especially those focused on scholarly research, may prefer or require a Ph.D. in law or a related field.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Law Professor
Law School Dean

CURRENT ROLE

Law Teacher

Legal & Compliance

ADJACENT MOVES

Legal Scholar/Researcher
Judge
Legal Researcher
Junior Attorney
Law Clerk

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

S

social · SIC

Individuals who thrive on intellectual inquiry, enjoy teaching and mentoring others, and have a methodical approach to legal scholarship and administration are well-suited for this role.

Personality characteristics

Intellectually Curious

Possesses a strong drive to explore complex legal concepts, conduct in-depth research, and continuously expand knowledge.

Methodical

Approaches teaching, research, and administrative tasks with a systematic and organized mindset, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness.

Engaging Presenter

Comfortable and effective in public speaking, capable of delivering engaging lectures and leading dynamic discussions.

Collaborative

Works effectively with colleagues on committees, research projects, and departmental initiatives, valuing shared goals.

Resilient

Maintains composure under pressure from publishing deadlines, grading demands, and academic scrutiny, handling criticism constructively.

Best for

  • Individuals passionate about legal scholarship and contributing to the body of legal knowledge.
  • Those who enjoy inspiring and educating future legal professionals.
  • Professionals who thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment with a blend of autonomy and collaboration.

Watch out for

  • The role involves continuous pressure to publish scholarly work alongside teaching responsibilities.
  • Grading and administrative tasks can consume significant time, particularly during peak periods.
  • Requires navigating academic politics and balancing diverse stakeholder expectations.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Law Teacher — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Lecture Preparation
Deliver Lecture (Legal Theory)
Student Office Hours
Faculty Meeting
Research & Scholarly Writing
Tue
Lead Seminar Discussion (Case Analysis)
Research & Literature Review
Grading Papers and Exams
Student Email & Administrative Tasks
Wed
Lecture Preparation
Deliver Lecture (Professional Ethics)
Student Advising Session
Research & Data Analysis
Journal Article Review
Thu
Deep Research & Publication Work
Department Committee Meeting
Conference Paper Drafting
Professional Development (e.g., webinar)
Fri
Lead Seminar Discussion (Moot Court Prep)
Grading & Providing Feedback
Research & Current Legal Readings
Course Planning & Syllabus Review
Administrative Tasks & Correspondence
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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