The legal profession is changing. Did you know that only about 23% of law graduates in the U.S. land jobs at law firms right after graduation? That's according to the National Association for Law Placement (NALP). For many, the traditional path to working in a law firm isn't the only—or even the best—option anymore.

And if you're based in Denver, you might be surprised to discover how the city's growing industries offer fresh opportunities for legal professionals. This blog will explore what it means to have a legal career beyond the law firm and highlight various paths available in Denver.

A New Legal Landscape in Denver

Denver's legal market is expanding, with opportunities ranging from corporate roles to public service. Alternative legal careers, such as legal tech consulting or compliance officers in growing industries, are also rising. Let’s explore why Denver has become a fertile ground for legal talent and what alternative career paths exist.

The Growing Job Market and Industry Needs

Denver's economy is booming with tech, healthcare, energy, and more growth. These industries need legal expertise, but not always in the form of a traditional attorney. Corporate counsel roles, compliance positions, and governmental legal jobs are all on the rise, offering law graduates a chance to use their skills in new ways.

Why Go Beyond a Law Firm?

Working in a law firm often means long hours, high stress, and competition to climb the ladder. In contrast, legal roles outside the firm can provide:

• Work-life balance: Many in-house or non-firm roles offer more regular hours.
• Diverse legal work: Instead of working in one area, you might handle contracts, compliance, policy, and more.
• Direct impact: Roles in corporations, startups, or government mean you see the direct effect of your work.

Denver's Unique Legal Environment

Denver’s legal market differs from larger cities like New York or Los Angeles. There's a tight-knit legal community, and industries like renewable energy, cannabis, and tech are prominent. Each sector has unique legal needs, creating roles beyond the traditional law firm structure.

Exploring Career Paths Beyond the Law Firm

Let’s examine some specific career paths available to legal professionals in Denver. Each offers a different work style, industry focus, and potential growth.

Corporate Counsel: The Company Lawyer

Corporate counsel is one of the top alternatives to firm work. Denver businesses, whether local startups or large corporations, need legal guidance on contracts, compliance, employment law, intellectual property, and more.

Advantages of Corporate Counsel Roles

• Holistic legal experience: Instead of specializing in one practice area, you get to touch on many aspects of law.
• Direct involvement in business: You are critical in shaping company policy and decisions.
• Predictable hours: Work tends to be more predictable during busy periods than at a law firm.

Industries in Denver That Hire Corporate Counsel

• Technology: Denver has a growing tech scene, with many startups seeking in-house counsel.
• Healthcare: Hospitals and medical centers need legal professionals to navigate regulatory compliance.
• Cannabis: Given Colorado's stance on cannabis, companies in this space are frequently looking for legal expertise.

Government and Public Sector Legal Jobs

Public sector roles might appeal if you're looking for a sense of purpose in your career. These can range from local to federal government positions and offer a chance to participate in policy-making and public service.

Opportunities in the Public Sector

• City and County of Denver: Legal positions exist within local government departments such as human services, transportation, and real estate.
• Regulatory Agencies: Jobs with agencies like the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) allow lawyers to work in consumer protection, insurance regulation, and other areas.
• Judicial Roles: Clerkships and administrative law positions are excellent stepping stones to a varied legal career.

Why Public Sector Work?

• Making a difference: You're directly involved in the legal mechanisms that impact citizens' daily lives.
• Networking opportunities: The public sector in Denver is well-connected, offering solid networking opportunities.

Compliance Roles: Ensuring the Rules Are Followed

Compliance professionals ensure that companies operate within the law. This role is especially prominent in regulated finance, insurance, and healthcare industries. This field is growing for those with a JD who prefer focusing on policy and regulations over courtrooms.

What Do Compliance Officers Do?

• Develop internal policies: Ensure company policies align with legal requirements.
• Conduct audits: Review company practices to ensure they meet legal standards.
• Report findings: Keep leadership informed about compliance risks and issues.

Where Are Compliance Jobs Found in Denver?

• Financial Services: With Denver as a growing financial hub, banks and investment firms often hire compliance officers.
• Healthcare: The need to comply with healthcare laws and data protection is high.
• Energy: Both renewable and traditional energy sectors require compliance experts to navigate environmental laws and safety regulations.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): The Mediator's Path

Not all legal conflicts end up in court. Many are handled through mediation or arbitration, known as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). This role can be ideal for those who excel in negotiation and want to avoid the traditional litigation process.

What Makes ADR Unique?

• Faster resolutions: Disputes are often resolved quicker than in courts.
• Collaborative process: ADR emphasizes cooperation and finding mutually beneficial solutions.
• Variety of cases: Mediators handle various issues, from family and corporate conflicts.

ADR Opportunities in Denver

• Private Practice or Nonprofit: Denver has numerous mediation centers and legal clinics needing ADR specialists.
• Specialized Mediators: Given the city's industry makeup, there is a demand for mediators in real estate, environmental law, and family law.

Gaining Experience Beyond the Law Firm

So, how do you transition from law school or a law firm to one of these alternative career paths? Here are some steps to consider:

1. Networking: Attend local Denver legal events, bar association meetings, and industry-specific meetups. The city's legal community is supportive and often willing to help.
2. Specialized Certifications or Courses: For compliance, look into certifications like Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM). For ADR, training should be considered through local mediation programs.
3. Internships and Volunteering: Government agencies, nonprofits, and companies often have opportunities to gain experience. Volunteering for pro bono projects can also be a way to explore different legal avenues.
4. LinkedIn and Job Boards: Actively explore job boards tailored to legal professionals. LinkedIn, LawJobs, and Indeed often have Denver-specific listings for non-firm roles.

Wrapping It Up: Rethinking the Legal Career Path in Denver

Denver’s thriving economy, unique industries, and connected legal community provide rich opportunities for those willing to step outside the traditional law firm box. From working directly with corporations as in-house counsel to shaping policies in public service to managing regulatory compliance, there are varied and meaningful paths to consider.

For those in Denver, the legal career journey doesn’t have to follow the same well-worn trail. And this diversity of opportunities makes the city such an exciting place to build a fulfilling legal career beyond the law firm walls. So, don’t limit yourself—explore, connect, and find the path that aligns with your passion and skills.