6 Side Hustles Ideas for Lawyers

The gig economy has evolved beyond novelty, and the pursuit of multiple income streams is increasingly recognized as a valuable and intelligent endeavor—even within the legal profession. Lawyers, too, are finding opportunities in the realm of side hustles, supplementary endeavors pursued alongside their main full-time jobs. According to a recent Zapier survey, 34% of American adults currently engage in a side hustle, and 24% plan to embark on one in the year 2021. While some attorneys may initially hesitate at the prospect, a lawyer side hustle can emerge as a convenient and strategic means to advance one's career or financial standing.
 

A well-chosen side hustle empowers lawyers to leverage their hard-earned skills, offering a flexible avenue to augment their income. Beyond the immediate financial benefits, a lawyer side hustle can expedite savings or facilitate the quicker repayment of student debt. Opting for a side hustle within the legal domain enables lawyers to not only hone their legal expertise but also to build their personal brand. Alternatively, a side hustle that diverges from legal specifics can provide an avenue for additional income while affording the opportunity to apply a diverse set of skills.

 
However, a crucial consideration for lawyers venturing into the side hustle arena is their capacity. The legal profession inherently carries stress, making it imperative to avoid overwork and guard against the onset of lawyer burnout. While the benefits of working extra hours are evident, they are not worth pursuing if they compromise one's well-being.
 
For those lawyers with the capacity, a reservoir of skills to share, and the motivation to earn supplementary income, a side hustle holds promise. It's essential to align the choice of a side hustle with individual circumstances and interests. To guide legal professionals in this pursuit, we've compiled a list of six types of side hustles tailored to lawyers, offering a spectrum of options that cater to various preferences and skill sets.
 
 
1. Additional legal work
 
As an attorney, one of the most apparent and potentially lucrative avenues for a side hustle lies in leveraging your education, skills, and professional experience within the legal field. Exploring opportunities to take on additional legal work can not only supplement your income but also enhance your expertise and contribute to career growth.
 
However, before embarking on extra legal work as a side hustle, it's imperative to conduct due diligence. Ensure there are no conflicts of interest with your current role and that you have adequate insurance coverage. Consulting resources like a guide to freelance lawyer work can provide valuable insights into essential considerations for a seamless and responsible integration of side legal work.
 
To streamline the process of finding additional legal work, technology and established platforms can prove invaluable. Platforms like UpCounsel serve as online legal services marketplaces, providing lawyers with the flexibility to choose projects and clients that align with their expertise and interests. UpCounsel facilitates connections between businesses seeking legal services and attorneys available on demand, simplifying the process of securing additional legal work for attorneys. This not only benefits lawyers by expanding their opportunities but also makes it more convenient for clients to find legal professionals tailored to their specific needs.
 
By capitalizing on technology and online platforms, attorneys can efficiently navigate the landscape of side legal hustles, optimizing their skills and experience for both personal and professional advancement.
 
2. Educational instruction
 
Absolutely, I can offer advice for new lawyers or law students, and I'm happy to share insights that can be valuable for their career journey. While I don't have personal experiences or interests as an individual, I can certainly provide general guidance. Here are some pieces of advice and potential side hustles for new lawyers or law students:
 
Networking is Key: Building a professional network is crucial in the legal field. Attend networking events, join bar associations, and connect with mentors to expand your professional connections.
 
Continual Learning: The legal landscape is dynamic. Stay updated on legal developments, attend seminars, and consider continuing legal education (CLE) courses to stay informed about changes in the law.
 
Legal Writing Skills: Strong legal writing is a valuable skill. Practice and refine your writing skills, as effective communication is a cornerstone of legal practice.
 
Time Management: Law can be demanding, and effective time management is essential. Prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
 
Embrace Technology: Familiarize yourself with legal technology and software that can enhance your efficiency. Many legal processes are becoming digitized, and tech proficiency is increasingly valuable.
 
As for potential lawyer side hustles leveraging knowledge and experience:
 
Tutoring: Offer tutoring services to law students preparing for the bar exam. Your experience and insights can provide valuable guidance.
 
Teaching: Explore part-time instructor opportunities at local colleges or universities. This can be a rewarding way to share your expertise and contribute to the education of aspiring legal professionals.
 
Educational Content Creation: Develop and sell educational materials, such as bar exam prep materials or law-related courses, on online platforms like Thinkific or Udemy. This can generate income while establishing your reputation in the legal education space.
 
Remember, starting a side hustle requires careful consideration of your time commitments and interests. Choose a side hustle that aligns with your skills and passion, and be prepared for the initial time investment to pay off over time.
 
3. Legal writing and research
 
bsolutely, leveraging talents and interests in legal writing or research can indeed translate into a viable source of extra income. Here are some avenues to explore for those with proficiency in legal writing or research:
 
Legal Article Writing: If you excel at powerful and persuasive legal writing, consider contributing articles to legal publications. Many legal magazines, journals, and blogs are on the lookout for well-crafted content. Additionally, government institutions may have opportunities for legal writing contributions. Some companies, especially those in the legal tech space like Clio, may also seek legal content for their blogs. Freelance legal writing can be a rewarding way to share insights, build your personal brand, and earn extra income.
 
Legal Research Services: If your strength lies in conducting thorough legal research, platforms like Upwork offer opportunities to take on additional research work. Many clients, including law firms, businesses, and individuals, may require assistance in legal research for various projects. This can range from preparing legal briefs to conducting market research on legal topics. Before delving into legal-specific freelance work, it's crucial to ensure there are no conflicts with your primary full-time job.
 
These side hustle options not only provide an avenue for additional income but also allow you to hone your skills, stay connected with current legal issues, and expand your professional network. As with any side hustle, careful consideration of time management and potential conflicts is essential to ensure a seamless integration with your primary legal responsibilities.
 
4. Transcription
 
Indeed, the specialized skills acquired through legal training and experience uniquely position lawyers to excel in the realm of legal transcription. Transcribing audio into well-written legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, or transcriptions of videoconferenced depositions and interviews, is a valuable service that can be turned into a lucrative side hustle.
 
Several online platforms facilitate the connection between legal professionals and opportunities for legal transcription work. Companies like SpeakWrite, E-Typist, and Cambridge Transcriptions offer remote work for individuals with legal expertise. These platforms not only streamline the process of finding side hustle gigs but also provide a flexible and convenient way for lawyers to leverage their skills for additional income.
 
Legal transcription can be an excellent option for lawyers looking to diversify their income streams, especially for those who have a keen ear for legal terminology and can produce accurate and well-crafted written documents. Before diving into legal transcription as a side hustle, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of each platform and ensure that the workload aligns with your availability and capacity.
 
5. Writing an eBook
 
Creating and publishing an eBook is an excellent way for legal professionals to monetize their unique knowledge, share insights, and build their brand within the legal community. Here are some reasons why an eBook, particularly in the digital format, is a compelling option:
 
Cost-Effective Publishing: Unlike traditional print publishing, where costs can include printing, distribution, and inventory, self-publishing an eBook on platforms like Amazon Kindle is often free or involves minimal expenses. This cost-effectiveness is especially advantageous for individuals looking to publish without a substantial financial investment.
 
Direct Access to Readers: Self-publishing on platforms like Amazon's Kindle marketplace provides direct access to a global audience of readers. This eliminates the need for intermediaries, making it easier for legal professionals to reach their target audience without relying on traditional publishing channels.
 
Quick Turnaround: The process of self-publishing an eBook is generally quicker than traditional publishing. Legal professionals can write, edit, and publish their eBook at their own pace, allowing for a more flexible and efficient timeline.
 
Passive Income Stream: Once published, an eBook can serve as a passive income stream. Legal professionals continue to generate revenue over time as readers purchase and download their eBook. This passive income model provides ongoing financial benefits without requiring continuous active engagement.
 
Flexibility in Content: Legal professionals can choose a niche or topic that aligns with their expertise and interests. Whether it's a guide on legal writing, insights into a specific area of law, or advice for law students, an eBook allows for flexibility in content creation.
 
Building Professional Brand: Publishing an eBook enhances the author's credibility and authority within the legal field. It establishes them as a thought leader and resource for other legal professionals, contributing to the development of their personal brand.
 
While the process of writing and self-publishing requires effort upfront, the long-term benefits, including the potential for passive income and brand building, make it a rewarding side hustle for legal professionals who enjoy writing and have valuable knowledge to share.
 
If you’re thinking of writing an eBook, consider the following:
 
Choosing a topic that you already know well is a strategic approach when writing an eBook as a side hustle. Your existing expertise not only allows you to effectively convey your knowledge but also positions you as a credible authority on the subject. Here are some additional tips for a successful eBook side hustle:
 
Select a Niche Within Your Expertise: While choosing a topic you know well is important, consider narrowing down to a specific niche within your expertise. This can make your eBook more targeted and appealing to a specific audience.
 
Research the Market: Before finalizing your eBook topic, research the market to identify the demand for the chosen subject. Understanding your potential readership can help you tailor your content to meet their needs and interests.
 
Polish and Proofread: The presentation of your eBook plays a significant role in establishing your professionalism and personal brand. Resist the urge to publish hastily and invest in professional copyediting and proofreading. This ensures that your eBook is free from typographical errors, enhancing its overall quality.
 
Engaging Cover Design: A visually appealing cover is crucial for attracting readers. Invest in a professionally designed cover that aligns with the content and captures the attention of potential readers.
 
Effective Formatting: Ensure that your eBook is properly formatted for readability. Pay attention to font styles, spacing, and layout to create a visually appealing and user-friendly reading experience.
 
Promotion and Marketing: Once your eBook is published, don't overlook the importance of promotion and marketing. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and other channels to spread the word about your eBook. Consider offering promotional discounts or free copies for initial reviews to generate interest.
 
Collect Feedback: Encourage readers to provide feedback, and use their insights to enhance future editions or create additional content. Positive reviews can also serve as testimonials for future readers.
 
Remember that your eBook is not only a source of passive income but also a representation of your professional brand. By dedicating time and effort to create a high-quality and well-presented eBook, you position yourself as a knowledgeable and reputable authority within your field.
 
6. Low barrier of entry side hustles
 
Absolutely, diversifying your side hustles beyond the legal industry can offer a refreshing break from the demands of legal work. Engaging in non-legal side hustles not only provides a welcome distraction but also allows you to explore different interests and potentially discover new passions. Here are some considerations for non-legal side hustles:
 
Diversify Your Interests: Identify non-lawyer tasks or activities that you genuinely enjoy. Whether it's walking dogs, riding your bike, or hosting guests, choose activities that bring you satisfaction.
 
Utilize Existing Skills: Consider leveraging skills you already possess that may not be directly related to the legal field. For example, if you have graphic design skills, you could offer freelance design services.
 
Explore Gig Economy Platforms: Platforms like Rover for pet services or food delivery services can be excellent options for earning income while doing activities you enjoy. These platforms provide flexibility and the opportunity to earn on your own terms.
 
Monetize Unused Assets: If you have unused assets, such as a spare room in your home, consider turning them into a source of income. Platforms like Airbnb allow you to rent out spaces for short-term stays.
 
Balance and Stress Relief: Non-legal side hustles can serve as a valuable source of balance and stress relief. Engaging in activities you love outside of the legal realm can contribute to your overall well-being and prevent burnout.
 
Evaluate Income vs. Enjoyment: While non-legal side hustles may pay less than legal ones, the enjoyment and satisfaction derived from these activities can be equally important. Strike a balance between earning income and pursuing activities that bring you joy.
 
Remember that the purpose of a non-legal side hustle is not solely financial; it's also about personal fulfillment and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By exploring diverse interests and engaging in activities outside the legal sphere, you can create a more holistic and enjoyable professional life.
 

Effort vs. Results

 
Choosing the right lawyer side hustle is a nuanced decision that involves considering your capacity, personal interests, and the level of commitment required. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed choice:
 

• Evaluate Time and Effort: Different side hustles demand varying levels of time and effort. Writing an eBook, for instance, is a substantial undertaking that requires dedication and commitment over an extended period. On the other hand, occasional legal transcription work may be a more manageable and less time-consuming option. 
• Align with Personal Interests: Assess your personal interests and passions. If you have a genuine interest in the topic of your eBook, the time and effort invested may feel less burdensome. Conversely, if a side hustle feels tedious or boring, it may become a source of stress rather than an enjoyable pursuit. 
• Consider Stress Levels: Acknowledge your current stress levels and how a particular side hustle might impact your overall well-being. Some side hustles, like transcription work, may offer a lower-stress option compared to more complex endeavors like writing a book. Ensure that the chosen side hustle aligns with your current capacity to manage stress. 
• Balance Commitment: Find a balance between the commitment required by a side hustle and the time you have available. If your schedule is already demanding due to legal work, opt for a side hustle that complements your existing commitments without overwhelming you. 
• Prioritize Worthwhile Ventures: Assess the worth of your time and choose side hustles that bring meaningful value. Consider not only the financial return but also the personal satisfaction and enjoyment derived from the activity. 
• Flexibility Matters: Opt for a side hustle that offers flexibility, allowing you to integrate it seamlessly into your schedule. This is particularly crucial for lawyers who already have demanding professional obligations.

 
Ultimately, the key is to find a lawyer side hustle that aligns with your current circumstances, interests, and capacity. By making thoughtful and intentional choices, you can ensure that your side hustle enhances your professional and personal life rather than becoming a source of additional stress.
 

A lawyer side hustle can have multiple benefits

 
Engaging in a lawyer side hustle within the gig economy can offer numerous benefits, from supplemental income to personal brand building. However, before diving into a side hustle, it's essential to assess your capacity and motivations. Here are some key considerations:
 

• Assess Workload Capacity: Ensure that you have the capacity to take on extra work without compromising the quality of your primary legal responsibilities. Consider your current workload, time commitments, and stress levels to determine if a side hustle is feasible. 
• Prioritize Financial Goals: If financial goals are a primary motivation, first maximize the earning potential within your current legal role. Evaluate opportunities for growth, promotions, or bonuses within your firm before exploring external side hustles. 
• Forethought and Planning: Before embarking on a side hustle, engage in thoughtful planning. Clarify your goals, the time you can realistically dedicate to the side hustle, and the desired outcomes. This strategic approach helps prevent overwhelm and ensures a more positive experience. 
• Align with Skill Development: Choose a side hustle that aligns with your skills and interests. Whether it's legal writing, transcription, teaching, or another avenue, leveraging your existing expertise can make the side hustle more enjoyable and rewarding. 
• Flexible Gig Economy Options: Explore gig economy platforms that offer flexibility. This allows you to integrate the side hustle into your schedule without disrupting your primary legal work. Platforms like Upwork, Rover, or others tailored to legal services can provide convenient opportunities. 
• Personal Brand Building: If brand building is a goal, consider side hustles that contribute to your professional brand within the legal community. Writing an eBook, creating educational content, or offering specialized services can enhance your reputation and visibility. 
• Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assess the impact of your side hustle on your well-being and work performance. If it becomes too burdensome, be willing to reassess and make adjustments to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

 
In conclusion, a lawyer side hustle can be a fulfilling and lucrative venture when approached strategically. By aligning your side hustle with your skills, interests, and goals, and by ensuring that you have the capacity to take on additional work, you can create a rewarding and sustainable experience in the gig economy.