Guide for Securing a Position in Cybersecurity Legal Field
As more companies face regulatory fines for non-compliance, the demand for cybersecurity lawyers is on the rise. Here's a step-by-step guide to embarking on a successful career in this dynamic field.
Earn a Law Degree and Pass the Bar
The journey to becoming a cybersecurity lawyer begins with completing a Juris Doctor (JD) degree at an accredited law school followed by passing the bar exam to legally practice law in your jurisdiction [1][3].
Specialize Through Coursework
While in law school, focus on courses related to cybersecurity and technology law, such as cybercrime, data privacy, internet law, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property. Some schools offer specialized electives in cyber law, artificial intelligence, or national security, which provide important foundational knowledge [1].
Gain Practical Experience
Engage in internships, externships, or clinical programs that focus on cyber law or data privacy. Hands-on experience working with cyber-related cases or technology companies enhances skills and employability [1][5].
Enhance Technical Knowledge and Obtain Certifications
Though legal qualifications are primary, successful cybersecurity lawyers also develop a strong understanding of technological concepts, cybersecurity principles, and cyber risks. Some pursue additional graduate degrees or short-term certifications in cyber law, information security, or related tech fields. Industry certifications in cybersecurity (like CISSP or CISM) can complement a lawyer’s credentials, especially if they come from tech backgrounds [1][3].
Professional Experience in Law and Cybersecurity Domains
Many cybersecurity lawyers begin their careers in firms or departments focusing on tech, privacy, or corporate law, before advancing to specialized roles advising on data protection, breach response, and compliance. They may also work in-house for companies in sectors such as finance or healthcare, government agencies regulating cybersecurity, or NGOs advocating digital rights [3][5].
Ongoing Professional Development
Given the fast-evolving cyber threat landscape and regulations, cybersecurity lawyers stay current through continuous education, attending seminars, and engaging with professional cybersecurity and legal communities.
Career Pathways
Cybersecurity lawyers often work in private law firms with practices focused on technology, compliance, or corporate law. Many lawyers in cybersecurity law deepen their technical understanding through specialized LL.M. programs or certifications such as CIPP/US, CISM, or CISSP.
Some cybersecurity lawyers work in academia or non-profits focused on digital rights and privacy advocacy. Many cybersecurity lawyers work in-house for corporations, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech.
Government agencies, such as the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, or national security organisations, employ cybersecurity lawyers. Cybersecurity lawyers advise clients on cybersecurity regulations, incident response, and liability issues following data breaches.
Salary and Job Outlook
Junior roles in cybersecurity law start at around £38,000, with earnings exceeding £90,000 at senior or partner level [2]. Cybersecurity lawyers in government enforce cybercrime laws and shape public policy.
Standing Out in the Field
To stand out in cybersecurity law, it is essential to combine strong legal knowledge with a clear understanding of cyber risks, attend legal tech events, consider courses in information security, and show a genuine interest in how law meets technology.
[1] Law Society Research (2023): 19% increase in demand for tech-literate lawyers in the field of cybersecurity. [2] Solicitors Regulation Authority: Rise in firms recruiting cyber-focused solicitors. [3] Data from various sources: The common educational and professional pathways to become a successful cybersecurity lawyer. [5] Law Society Research (2023): Cybersecurity lawyers often learn a lot on the job, working with IT and security teams during breach investigations, reviewing compliance frameworks, and negotiating cybersecurity clauses in contracts.
- To excel as a cybersecurity lawyer, it is crucial to complement strong legal knowledge with a clear understanding of technology and cybersecurity principles, which can be achieved through additional coursework or industry certifications in cyber law, information security, or related tech fields.
- In addition to their legal qualifications, successful cybersecurity lawyers develop a strong understanding of technological concepts to offer client-focused advice that bridges the gap between law and technology.
