Graduating from an NLU unlocks a wide range of legal and non-legal careers. Here are the top options law students typically explore:
1. Law Firms
Top law firms in India—like Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, AZB & Partners, Khaitan & Co., and Trilegal—hire NLU graduates for high-paying roles. Freshers can earn anywhere from INR 10 to 15 LPA. These firms offer experience in corporate law, mergers, litigation, and more.
2. Corporate Sector Jobs
Most large companies and MNCs have in-house legal teams. They hire lawyers to handle contracts, compliance, and internal legal matters. Sectors like PSUs, banks, and insurance also recruit lawyers. Average starting salaries range from INR 5 to 10 LPA.
3. Judiciary Services
Want to become a judge? You’ll need to clear the State Judicial Services Exam after your law degree. Entry-level judges can eventually rise to High Court positions. It’s a respected, secure, and meaningful career path.
4. Indian Corporate Law Services (ICLS)
ICLS officers are selected through the UPSC Civil Services Exam. This career merges law with policymaking and regulatory roles in government. It offers status, stability, and structured growth.
5. Academia: Lecturer or Law Professor
If you enjoy teaching, a career in academia can be deeply rewarding. Many NLU grads pursue higher studies like an LLM or PhD before joining law schools as professors. Salaries typically range from INR 5 to 10 LPA.
6. In-House Counsel Roles
Companies like Infosys, Tata, Reliance, and Aditya Birla hire legal professionals for in-house roles. These jobs involve contract management, regulatory work, and legal advice within the organization.
7. Legal Research and Academia
Many NLU graduates pursue LLMs from global institutions like Harvard, Oxford, or Cambridge. They work in legal think tanks, NGOs, or as researchers and professors.
8. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Mediation, arbitration, and negotiation are growing fast in India. Many students take specialized ADR courses and work as arbitrators or consultants, especially in commercial disputes.
9. Legal Journalism and Publishing
Love writing and law? Platforms like LiveLaw, Bar & Bench, and SCC Online hire legal reporters and content creators. This niche field blends legal insight with storytelling.
10. Entrepreneurship and Legal Startups
NLUs nurture an entrepreneurial spirit. Many graduates start their own law firms or legal-tech companies that use AI and software to offer services.
11. International Careers
Some students appear for bar exams abroad or pursue international LLMs, landing roles in global firms, UN bodies, or international NGOs.
12. Public Policy and Human Rights
NLU graduates passionate about impact often work in policy research, human rights law, and advocacy. Roles with NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations are both meaningful and impactful.
Average CLAT Job Salaries
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Law Firms | INR 10–15 Lakhs/Year |
| Corporate Sector Jobs | INR 5–10 Lakhs/Year |
| Judiciary | INR 8–10 Lakhs/Year |
| Indian Corporate Law Services | Based on Govt Scales |
| Lecturer or Law Professor | INR 5–10 Lakhs/Year |
Final Thoughts
The legal field offers endless opportunities—from courtroom roles to corporate boardrooms, academia to activism. What truly matters is choosing a career that aligns with your interests and long-term goals.
If you’re currently preparing for CLAT or already enrolled in law school, start exploring your options early. Intern widely, network actively, and talk to seniors and mentors. With preparation and clarity, you can build a career that is both successful and fulfilling.
Start your journey today—your future in law awaits!