For many law graduates, the traditionally sought out path of joining private practice as an attorney or advocate post LLB is not one which they wish to take on. Outside of the saturated job market of graduates seeking to secure articles, contributing factors such as interests, personality traits and aspirations might be determiners which lead to looking to alternative career paths. Practising as an attorney and advocate are not the only options for law graduates. In fact, some alternative career routes often overlooked which offer equally rewarding and intellectually stimulating opportunities include roles in academia, in-house legal practice, and working as a state lawyer.
At the top of the list of alternative legal careers is academia. Legal academics primarily work at universities and other higher learning institutions. Their diverse role involves teaching, conducting research, publishing scholarly articles and contributing to the development of legal education. Law graduates who are not particularly comfortable with fast-paced environments, and direct client interaction of practise may lean towards academia which facilitates continual critical thinking through research and writing, legal theory debates, and contributions to the evolution of the law.
Academics not only have the chance to shape future generations of lawyers but also to influence legal reform and social justice. For those who are passionate about long-term impact and who value intellectual autonomy, academia provides a platform for deep exploration of legal principles. The combination of teaching, writing, and research creates a dynamic career path where curiosity is continually rewarded.
During our recent mentorship session on Career Planning, SWCM mentees had the unique opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Tshepiso Scott-Ngoepe. Dr. Scott-Ngoepe is a lecturer in the Department of Mercantile Law and an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. She holds an LLB and LLM in Mercantile Law from the University of Pretoria, and an LLD from the University of South Africa, where her doctoral thesis focused on the realisation of rights under the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008.
This session was particularly insightful, as Dr. Scott-Ngoepe shared her personal journey from legal practice to academia, offering a behind-the-scenes look into what an academic career in law truly entails. The interactive nature of the session allowed mentees to ask questions, gain clarity, and hear firsthand about the challenges and rewards of the academic path. Dr. Scott-Ngoepe’s reflections provided invaluable lessons, especially for those considering alternative career paths in law beyond traditional practice. The session highlighted not just the demands of academia, but also its potential as a fulfilling career, rich with opportunities for research, teaching, and mentorship.
For those considering academia as a career path in law, Dr. Scott-Ngoepe’s experience offers a realistic view. It is not an easier path , but one that requires dedication, discipline, and a genuine passion for research and teaching. However, it also offers unparalleled freedom, flexibility, and the ability to shape the next generation of legal minds.
Academia is more than just a career—it’s a lifelong commitment to learning, growth, and contribution to the broader legal landscape.
FEEDBACK FROM MENTEES
My health, work ethic and views of the future have improved and changed and I am no longer anxious but look forward to the future.
Recently, I have been interested in trying to gain insight into academia through the legal field, it is not as easy as I thought it was, especially after having a session with Dr. Tshepiso, I realised that there is much more work that goes on behind the scenes.
She mentioned that she is a lecturer and there is no ‘boss’ that hovers over your head to get you to complete your work. However, you must be disciplined, and you need to do your tasks on your own and be responsible.
One thing that surprised me was when Dr. Tshepiso mentioned that when she was working as a researcher her overall writing skills improved a lot. The style guide, judgements and research work were advanced compared to how it was before, because in general lawyers are meant to have a completely separate writing style and skills and our vocabulary is meant to be advanced however Dr. Tshepiso did all of the above after graduating as a lawyer, when she started working. There is always room for improvement. It really benefited her in the long run when she compared her present writings to the writings of the past and noticed what a tremendous change there was between the two.
I could never express my gratitude in words for the opportunities we have received. It has broadened my perception and words fail me so express my gratitude. For now, thank you.