18 Best Side Hustles for Lawyers

Many lawyers, especially those in solo or small firm practices, may find their primary income insufficient to meet their financial goals. Side hustles can provide a financial safety net, allowing for savings, investments, or funding major purchases.

As an Internet entrepreneur who’s explored countless side hustles over the years, I’ve discovered that legal skills are incredibly versatile and valuable beyond the courtroom. 

That’s why I’m excited to share this curated list of the 18 best side hustles for lawyers. Whether you’re looking to pay off those pesky student loans faster, save for a dream vacation, or simply diversify your income streams, these gigs are tailor-made for legal professionals. 

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can turn your legal acumen into a lucrative side hustle that fits your lifestyle and goals.

1. Legal Transcriptionist

A legal transcriptionist is responsible for converting spoken language from legal proceedings, such as depositions, hearings, and client meetings, into written text. This role is particularly suitable for lawyers due to their familiarity with legal terminology, procedures, and the importance of accuracy in legal documentation. Lawyers can leverage their expertise to ensure high-quality transcriptions, making them well-suited for this side hustle.

How to Get Started

1. Training and Certification: While a specific degree is not required, obtaining formal training in legal transcription can be beneficial. Courses typically cover legal terminology, transcription software, and typing skills. Training programs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars and take about three to six months to complete.
2. Equipment: Invest in a good-quality computer, transcription software, and a foot pedal to control audio playback.
3. Practice: Enhance your typing speed and accuracy by practicing with legal recordings. Aim for a typing speed of at least 75 words per minute.
4. Networking: Connect with law firms, legal departments, and transcription service providers to find job opportunities.
5. Freelance Platforms: Register on freelance job platforms to find transcription gigs.

Earning Potential

Legal transcriptionists can earn a substantial income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for court reporters, including legal transcriptionists, was $60,130 in May 2020, with the top 10% earning more than $106,210. Freelance legal transcriptionists typically earn between $15 to $30 per hour, with experienced professionals potentially earning up to $50 per hour.

2. Adjunct Professor

An adjunct professor is a part-time instructor at a college or university. Lawyers can teach law-related courses, sharing their practical experience and knowledge with students. This role is suitable for lawyers as it allows them to stay connected with academia, contribute to the education of future lawyers, and gain a sense of fulfillment from teaching.

How to Get Started

1. Qualifications: Most law schools require adjunct professors to have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and significant practical experience in the legal field.
2. Application Process: Apply to law schools or universities that offer adjunct positions. Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your legal expertise and teaching experience.
3. Course Preparation: Develop a syllabus, course materials, and lesson plans. Familiarize yourself with the institution’s academic policies and procedures.
4. Networking: Engage with academic professionals and attend legal education conferences to build connections that can lead to teaching opportunities.

Earning Potential

Adjunct professors typically earn a modest stipend per course. According to the ABA Journal, adjunct law professors usually receive a “four-figure stipend” for each class they teach, which is significantly lower than the salaries of tenured professors. While the pay may not be high, the role offers other benefits such as professional recognition, networking opportunities, and personal satisfaction from teaching.

3. Create a Legal Blog

A legal blog, often referred to as a “blawg,” is an online platform where legal professionals share insights, analyses, and opinions on various legal matters. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers because it allows them to demonstrate their expertise, attract potential clients, and build their professional reputation. A well-crafted legal blog can also boost search engine rankings and establish the lawyer as an authority in their field.

How to Get Started

1. Choose Your Niche: Focus on a specific area of law that aligns with your expertise and interests. This can range from intellectual property to family law or local legal issues.
2. Set Up Your Blog: Select a blogging platform like WordPress or Wix. Customize the design to align with your law firm’s branding and ensure it is user-friendly and mobile-responsive.
3. Content Strategy: Develop a content plan that includes a mix of legal analysis, practical advice, and updates on legal developments. Use keyword research to guide your topics and ensure they are relevant to your audience.
4. Create and Publish Content: Write engaging and informative posts that simplify complex legal concepts. Use multimedia elements like images and videos to enhance your content.
5. Promote Your Blog: Share your posts on social media, legal forums, and through email newsletters. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and encouraging discussion.
6. Analyze and Adjust: Use tools like Google Analytics to track your blog’s performance and adjust your strategy based on what resonates with your audience.

Earning Potential

The earning potential of a legal blog varies widely. While the blog itself may not generate direct income, it can significantly enhance your professional visibility and attract new clients. Lawyers with successful blogs often see an increase in their client base, which can lead to substantial financial gains. In addition, monetization options such as sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and selling legal guides or courses can provide additional revenue streams.

Learn more: How to Make Money Blogging

4. Public Speaking

Public speaking involves delivering presentations, workshops, or seminars to various audiences. For lawyers, this side hustle is particularly suitable because it leverages their expertise in law and their ability to communicate complex information clearly. Public speaking engagements can range from speaking at legal conferences to hosting webinars or giving talks to civic groups and business executives.

How to Get Started

1. Develop Speaking Skills: Enroll in public speaking courses specifically designed for lawyers to improve your presentation skills, body language, and vocal techniques.
2. Identify Your Audience: Tailor your presentations to suit different audiences, from legal professionals to the general public. Understanding your audience helps in crafting messages that resonate and engage.
3. Create Engaging Content: Develop presentations that are informative, engaging, and visually appealing. Use real-life examples and avoid excessive legal jargon to ensure clarity.
4. Practice: Rehearse your presentations multiple times to build confidence and refine your delivery. Practice deep breathing and visualization techniques to manage nerves.
5. Network: Connect with event organizers, legal associations, and business groups to find speaking opportunities. Building a strong network can lead to more invitations and higher-profile engagements.
6. Promote Yourself: Use social media, your legal blog, and professional networks to promote your speaking services. Highlight your expertise and past speaking engagements to attract potential clients.

Earning Potential

Public speaking can be a lucrative side hustle for lawyers. Fees for speaking engagements can vary widely based on the lawyer’s experience, the event’s profile, and the audience size. On average, lawyers can earn between $500 to $5,000 per speaking engagement, with high-profile speakers earning significantly more.

5. Proofreading

Proofreading involves reviewing and correcting written content for grammatical, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers due to their keen attention to detail, strong language skills, and familiarity with complex documents. Lawyers can leverage their expertise in legal terminology and document formats to offer specialized proofreading services for legal content.

How to Get Started

1. Develop your skills: Take online courses or workshops to enhance your proofreading abilities.
2. Choose your niche: Focus on legal documents or expand to other areas like academic papers or business content.
3. Create an online presence: Set up profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
4. Build a portfolio: Offer free or discounted services initially to gain experience and testimonials.
5. Network: Connect with other legal professionals, publishers, and content creators to find opportunities.
6. Invest in tools: Acquire proofreading software to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Earning Potential

Proofreading can be a lucrative side hustle for lawyers. Rates vary depending on experience, specialization, and project complexity:

• General proofreading: $20-$50 per hour
• Specialized legal proofreading: Up to $100 per hour or more for complex documents
• Project-based pricing: $500-$5000 for longer documents or books

As you gain experience and build a reputation, you can increase your rates and potentially earn $2,000-$7,000 per month from this side hustle.

6. Write an eBook

Writing an eBook allows lawyers to showcase their expertise, establish thought leadership, and create a passive income stream. This side hustle is ideal for lawyers as they can leverage their specialized knowledge to provide valuable insights on legal topics, processes, or industry trends. eBooks can also serve as powerful marketing tools to attract potential clients and enhance professional credibility.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a topic: Select a legal subject that aligns with your expertise and has market demand.
2. Outline your content: Create a detailed structure for your eBook.
3. Write consistently: Set a writing schedule and stick to it.
4. Edit and proofread: Ensure your content is polished and error-free.
5. Design the eBook: Use tools like Canva or hire a designer for professional formatting.
6. Publish: Choose between self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or traditional publishing routes.
7. Market your eBook: Promote through your professional network, social media, and legal forums.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for eBooks varies widely based on factors such as topic, marketing efforts, and distribution channels:

• Self-published eBooks: $500-$5000 per month for popular titles
• Traditionally published eBooks: Advance payments of $5000-$50000, plus royalties
• Indirect benefits: Increased client acquisition, speaking engagements, and consulting opportunities

While not all eBooks become bestsellers, they can provide a steady stream of passive income and significantly boost your professional profile, potentially leading to more lucrative opportunities in your legal career.

Learn more: How to Make Money on Amazon KDP

7. Bar Exam and LSAT Tutoring

Bar exam and LSAT tutoring involves helping law students and aspiring lawyers prepare for these critical exams. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers because they have first-hand experience with these tests and understand the knowledge and skills required to succeed. Lawyers can leverage their expertise to provide valuable insights, strategies, and guidance to students.

How to Get Started

1. Develop a strong understanding of the exam content and structure.
2. Create study materials and practice tests.
3. Advertise your services on platforms like Wyzant, Upwork, or local law schools.
4. Build a reputation through positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.
5. Consider obtaining additional certifications or training in test preparation techniques.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for bar exam and LSAT tutors can be substantial. LSAT tutors typically charge $50-$250 per hour, with experienced tutors earning on the higher end. Bar exam tutors can earn $50-$150 per hour, depending on experience and location. Some tutoring companies offer competitive rates, starting at $50/hour for tutoring and $60/hour for conducting classes, with potential annual raises.

8. Resume Writing

Resume writing for legal professionals involves crafting compelling resumes and cover letters tailored to the legal industry. This side hustle is well-suited for lawyers because they understand the specific requirements and expectations of legal employers. They can use their insider knowledge to highlight key skills and experiences that will resonate with hiring managers in law firms and legal departments.

How to Get Started

1. Familiarize yourself with current resume trends and best practices in the legal industry.
2. Develop templates and samples for different legal specialties and career levels.
3. Create a website or profile on freelance platforms to showcase your services.
4. Network with legal recruiters and career services departments at law schools.
5. Consider obtaining certifications in resume writing or career coaching.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for legal resume writing services can vary. Basic legal resume services typically range from $125 to $485. More comprehensive packages for senior-level legal professionals can command $500 to $1,550 or more. Experienced legal resume writers working independently or through specialized firms can earn $2,000-$7,000 per month, depending on their client base and pricing structure.

9. Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel involves creating and sharing video content to educate, inform, and engage viewers. For lawyers, this side hustle is particularly suitable because it allows them to showcase their expertise, provide valuable legal information, and connect with potential clients. Lawyers can use YouTube to demystify legal concepts, offer advice, and build their personal brand.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Your Audience: Determine who your target viewers are—whether they are potential clients, law students, or general audiences seeking legal advice.
2. Plan Content: Develop a list of video topics based on frequently asked questions and common legal issues. Aim for a mix of educational, informative, and engaging content.
3. Set Up Your Channel: Create a YouTube account, design a professional channel banner, and write a compelling channel description.
4. Record and Edit: Start with basic equipment like a smartphone and gradually invest in better gear as your channel grows. Use simple editing software to enhance your videos.
5. Upload and Optimize: Regularly upload videos and optimize them with relevant titles, descriptions, and tags. Create eye-catching thumbnails to attract viewers.
6. Promote Your Channel: Share your videos on social media, embed them on your website, and email them to your contacts to increase visibility.
7. Engage with Viewers: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and encourage viewers to subscribe and share your content.

Earning Potential

The earning potential of a YouTube channel can vary widely:

• Ad Revenue: Once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, you can monetize your channel through ads. Earnings can range from $1 to $5 per 1,000 views.
• Sponsorships and Partnerships: Collaborate with brands and companies for sponsored content, which can significantly boost your income.
• Consulting and Services: Use your channel to attract clients for your legal services, potentially increasing your overall revenue.
• Affiliate Marketing: Promote products or services and earn a commission on sales generated through your referral links.

Successful legal YouTube channels can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on viewership and engagement.

Learn more: How to Make Money on YouTube

10. Law School Admissions Counselor

A law school admissions counselor helps aspiring law students navigate the complex admissions process. This role is ideal for lawyers because they have firsthand experience with law school applications and can provide valuable insights and strategies to improve applicants’ chances of acceptance. Lawyers can assist with personal statements, resumes, interview preparation, and overall application strategy.

How to Get Started

1. Gain Relevant Experience: Familiarize yourself with the law school admissions process and stay updated on current trends and requirements.
2. Develop Services: Offer a range of services, including personal statement reviews, resume editing, application strategy sessions, and interview coaching.
3. Create a Website: Build a professional website to showcase your services, success stories, and client testimonials.
4. Network: Connect with pre-law advisors, law school admissions officers, and legal professionals to build a referral network.
5. Market Your Services: Use social media, legal forums, and online advertising to reach potential clients. Offer free webinars or workshops to attract interest.
6. Stay Informed: Continuously update your knowledge of law school admissions trends and requirements to provide the best advice to your clients.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for law school admissions counselors can be significant:

• Hourly Rates: Counselors can charge between $100 to $200 per hour for their services.
• Package Deals: Comprehensive consulting packages can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the level of service and support provided.
• Success-Based Fees: Some counselors may charge additional fees based on successful admissions or scholarship awards.

Experienced law school admissions counselors can earn $50,000 to $100,000 or more annually, depending on their client base and pricing structure. This side hustle not only provides financial rewards but also offers the satisfaction of helping students achieve their academic and career goals.

11. Start a Podcast

Starting a podcast involves creating audio content that can be distributed online to engage and inform listeners. For lawyers, this side hustle is particularly suitable because it allows them to share their legal expertise, build their personal brand, and connect with potential clients. Podcasts can cover a wide range of topics, from legal advice to industry trends, making them a versatile tool for establishing authority and trust in the legal field.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Your Audience: Determine who you want to reach—potential clients, other legal professionals, or the general public.
2. Choose a Topic and Format: Decide on a niche topic that showcases your expertise. Common formats include interviews, solo discussions, case studies, and panel discussions.
3. Set Up Your Equipment: Invest in a good quality microphone, headphones, and audio editing software. Popular tools include Audacity, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.
4. Plan Your Content: Outline your episodes, create a content calendar, and prepare scripts or talking points.
5. Record and Edit: Record your episodes in a quiet environment and edit them to ensure high audio quality. Consider adding intro and outro music for a professional touch.
6. Host Your Podcast: Choose a podcast hosting platform like Buzzsprout or Libsyn to upload and distribute your episodes.
7. Promote Your Podcast: Use social media, your website, and email newsletters to market your podcast. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and encouraging feedback.

Earning Potential

The earning potential of a podcast varies widely:

• Ad Revenue: Once you build a substantial listener base, you can monetize through ads. Earnings typically range from $10 to $50 per 1,000 downloads.
• Sponsorships: Partner with brands for sponsored content, which can significantly boost your income.
• Consulting and Services: Use your podcast to attract clients for your legal services, potentially increasing your overall revenue.
• Premium Content: Offer exclusive episodes or additional content through subscription models on platforms like Patreon.

Successful podcasts can generate anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on their popularity and monetization strategies.

Learn more: How to Make Money Podcasting

12. Notary

A notary public is an official authorized to witness and authenticate the signing of important documents, such as contracts, deeds, and affidavits. This side hustle is suitable for lawyers because it complements their legal expertise and provides an additional service to clients. Notaries play a crucial role in preventing fraud and ensuring the integrity of legal documents.

How to Get Started

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet your state’s qualifications, which typically include being at least 18 years old, a legal resident, and having no felony convictions.
2. Complete Training and Exam: Some states require notary applicants to complete a training course and pass an exam. Training can often be done online or through community colleges.
3. Submit an Application: Apply through your state’s Secretary of State office, pay the required fees, and submit any necessary documentation.
4. Obtain a Surety Bond: Some states require notaries to purchase a surety bond as a form of insurance.
5. Purchase Supplies: Acquire a notary seal, journal, and other necessary supplies. A notary seal is used to authenticate documents, while a journal is used to keep records of notarizations.
6. Receive Your Commission: Once approved, you will receive your notary commission certificate, allowing you to begin offering notary services.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for notaries can vary based on location and the type of services offered:

• General Notary Work: Fees for notarizations are typically set by state law and can range from $2 to $15 per signature.
• Mobile Notary Services: Mobile notaries can charge additional fees for travel, often earning $50 to $100 per appointment.
• Notary Signing Agents: Specializing in real estate closings, notary signing agents can earn $75 to $200 per signing.

According to the National Notary Association, full-time mobile notaries can earn $2,000 to $7,500 per month, while part-time notaries can make $500 to $1,000 per month.

13. E-commerce Store

An e-commerce store involves selling products online through a dedicated website. This side hustle is suitable for lawyers because it allows them to leverage their business acumen and attention to detail while diversifying their income streams. Lawyers can sell legal-related products or explore entirely different niches based on their interests.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a niche and target audience
2. Research and source products
3. Select an e-commerce platform (e.g. Shopify, WooCommerce)
4. Set up your online store and customize the design
5. Create product listings with high-quality images and descriptions
6. Set up payment processing and shipping options
7. Develop a marketing strategy (social media, SEO, paid advertising)
8. Launch your store and continuously optimize based on performance

Earning Potential

• The earning potential for e-commerce stores varies widely:
• New stores may generate $1,000 – $5,000 per month within the first year
• Established stores can earn $10,000 – $100,000+ per month
• Highly successful stores have the potential to generate millions in annual revenue

14. Online Course Creation

Creating and selling online courses allows lawyers to monetize their expertise by teaching others valuable legal knowledge and skills. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers as they possess specialized knowledge that many people are willing to pay to learn. Courses can cover various legal topics, from general law concepts to niche practice areas.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a course topic based on your expertise and market demand
2. Outline your course content and learning objectives
3. Create course materials (video lectures, slides, worksheets, etc.)
4. Select a course hosting platform (e.g. Teachable, Thinkific, Udemy)
5. Record and edit your course content
6. Set up your course landing page and pricing
7. Develop a marketing strategy to promote your course
8. Launch your course and gather student feedback for improvements

Earning Potential

The earning potential for online courses can be substantial:

1. Entry-level courses may generate $1,000 – $5,000 per month
2. Popular courses can earn $10,000 – $50,000+ per month
3. Top-performing course creators have reported earning over $100,000 per month

Learn more: How to Make Money Selling Online Courses

15. Contract Review and Drafting

Contract review and drafting involve analyzing, creating, and ensuring the accuracy and legality of various types of contracts. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers due to their expertise in legal documentation, attention to detail, and understanding of legal language and implications. Lawyers can help businesses and individuals protect their interests and avoid legal pitfalls by providing well-drafted and thoroughly reviewed contracts.

How to Get Started

1. Build Expertise: Ensure you have a strong understanding of contract law and stay updated on relevant legal developments.
2. Create a Portfolio: Compile examples of contracts you have drafted or reviewed to showcase your skills.
3. Set Up a Professional Profile: Create a website or LinkedIn profile highlighting your contract law expertise and services.
4. Network: Connect with potential clients through your existing network, attend business and legal events, and join professional associations.
5. Offer Initial Services: Consider offering discounted or free initial services to build your client base and gather testimonials.
6. Market Your Services: Use social media, online advertising, and content marketing (e.g., writing articles on contract law) to attract clients.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for contract review and drafting can be significant:

• Hourly Rates: Lawyers can charge between $100 to $300 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the contract.
• Per-Contract Fees: For more complex or high-risk agreements, lawyers can charge several hundred to several thousand dollars per contract.
• Monthly Income: With consistent clients, lawyers can earn $2,000 to $10,000+ per month from contract review and drafting services.

16. Language Tutor

Language tutoring involves teaching a language to students, either in person or online. This side hustle is suitable for lawyers who are bilingual or multilingual, as they can leverage their language skills to help others learn. Lawyers with language expertise can offer specialized tutoring for legal terminology and communication, which is particularly valuable for law students and professionals working in international law.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Your Niche: Decide whether you will focus on general language tutoring or specialize in legal language tutoring.
2. Certify Your Skills: Obtain relevant language teaching certifications (e.g., TEFL, TESOL) if necessary.
3. Create a Curriculum: Develop lesson plans and materials tailored to your students’ needs.
4. Set Up Profiles: Register on tutoring platforms like iTalki, Preply, or Wyzant, and create a professional profile highlighting your language skills and legal background.
5. Market Your Services: Promote your tutoring services through social media, local community boards, and professional networks.
6. Gather Testimonials: Start with a few students and gather positive reviews to build your reputation.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for language tutors can vary:

• Hourly Rates: Language tutors typically charge $20 to $50 per hour, with specialized legal language tutors potentially earning $50 to $100 per hour.
• Monthly Income: Depending on the number of students and hours worked, tutors can earn $1,000 to $5,000+ per month.

17. Offer Mediation Services

Mediation involves facilitating negotiations between disputing parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. This side hustle is particularly suitable for lawyers due to their expertise in conflict resolution, understanding of legal issues, and ability to remain impartial. Lawyers can leverage their analytical and communication skills to guide parties towards agreement outside of court.

How to Get Started

1. Obtain mediation training and certification (typically 40+ hours)
2. Gain experience through volunteer mediation programs or co-mediation
3. Join professional mediation associations for networking and credibility
4. Develop a niche based on your legal expertise (e.g., family, employment, commercial)
5. Create marketing materials highlighting your legal background and mediation skills
6. Network with other professionals and court systems to generate referrals

Earning Potential

The earning potential for mediators can vary widely:

• Entry-level mediators may earn $50-$100 per hour
• Experienced mediators can charge $200-$500+ per hour
• Top mediators in specialized fields may earn $1,000+ per hour
• Annual income can range from $50,000 to $200,000+, depending on caseload and reputation

18. Photographer

Photography allows lawyers to explore their creative side while potentially earning additional income. This side hustle is suitable for lawyers because it offers flexibility, a change of pace from legal work, and the opportunity to develop a different skill set. Lawyers can leverage their attention to detail and client management skills in building a photography business.

How to Get Started

1. Invest in quality camera equipment and editing software
2. Take photography courses to improve technical skills and artistic vision
3. Practice regularly and build a portfolio
4. Choose a photography niche (e.g., weddings, corporate events, portraits)
5. Create a website and social media presence to showcase your work
6. Network with potential clients and other photographers
7. Consider offering special rates to legal professionals or law firms initially

Earning Potential

The earning potential for photographers can vary based on niche, location, and experience:

• Part-time photographers may earn $200-$500 per event or session
• Experienced photographers can charge $1,000-$3,000+ for weddings or corporate events
• Stock photography can provide passive income, typically $0.25-$0.45 per image download
• Annual income for part-time photographers can range from $5,000 to $50,000+

Final Words

The high costs associated with law school often leave lawyers with significant student loan debt. Side hustles provide an additional income stream, enabling lawyers to pay down these debts more quickly and achieve financial freedom sooner.

Side hustles also require lawyers to interact with a different set of professionals and clients, expanding their network beyond the traditional legal circles. This broader network can lead to new opportunities and referrals that benefit their main legal practice.

While it may seem counterintuitive, a well-chosen side hustle can actually improve work-life balance. Engaging in fulfilling and enjoyable activities can reduce burnout and increase overall job satisfaction, making lawyers more effective in their primary roles.

Anthony Smith

Anthony Smith is an internet entrepreneur. He created the Side Hustle Ideas Database to help people find side hustles for making extra money, with the potential of turning into a full-time income.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a business degree, he gained business experience at a consulting firm. At the same time, he tried various side hustles including freelance writing, blogging, and eCommerce. He managed to turn his side hustles into a full-time business, earning over $3 million. Now, he enjoys financial freedom and travels around the world as a digital nomad.