15 remote jobs that are great for legal professionals

Whether you’re looking for a job as a lawyer, paralegal, legal assistant, or other role in the legal profession, chances are that working remotely at least part of the time is something you’ve considered and perhaps want.

As more and more jobs in all industries move from being fully remote to hybrid and some even 100 percent in-person, those in legal professions are finding it harder to locate jobs which are fully remote. We asked 15 lawyers and other hiring experts for their suggestions for the kinds of roles that are well-suited to those who want a fully remote legal job:

• Explore Legal Proofreading from Home
• Discover Remote Legal Writing Careers
• Virtual Paralegal: A Remote Opportunity
• Three Ideal Remote Legal Jobs
• Remote Contract Attorney: Work Anywhere
• Legal Transcription and Compliance Analysis
• Remote Paralegal and Legal Consultant Roles
• Legal Transcriptionist and Contract Manager
• Remote Contract Attorney and Transcriptions
• Paralegal and Remote Legal Counsel Jobs
• Virtual Legal Assistants Enhance Operations
• Legal Researcher and Remote Content Creator
• Legal Writing and Consulting from Home
• Paralegal and Compliance Officer Go Remote
• Legal Researcher and Compliance Analyst Remote

Explore Legal Proofreading from Home

Legal Proofreader

If you’re good at spotting typos in texts, a legal proofreader role might be ideal for you to do from home. This job involves reviewing court documents for accuracy, checking that documents contain all necessary details and correctly cite past decisions, correcting typos and grammatical errors, suggesting alternative phrasing, and adjusting the structure and format of documents as needed. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement. Some positions may also ask for legal work or internship experience. The average annual salary for a legal proofreader is $47,626.

Legal Transcriptionist

This role entails converting audio recordings or legal briefs into written documents. As a legal transcriptionist, your tasks include transcribing from audio and other sources like handwritten notes or documents, and formatting transcripts for ease of reading and review. A high school diploma is necessary, and you might need to complete a course in legal transcription, such as ‘Legal Transcription: Theory & Practice’ from TranscribeAnywhere. Some jobs may require prior experience in a legal or office setting. The pay for legal transcriptionists varies widely based on experience and the employer.

Legal Intake Specialist

An intake specialist manages the initial steps when a potential client approaches a firm. Intake is essentially the process of bringing a new client onboard. This job primarily involves data entry, handling forms, and managing information. The minimum qualification is a high school diploma, though some employers prefer additional college coursework in related fields. Most firms require at least two years of work experience, although some may prefer more. The national average salary for this role is $42,769 annually, or about $21 per hour.

Michael Brown, Managing Partner, Dribbin & Brown Criminal Lawyers

Discover Remote Legal Writing Careers

In my capacity as the CEO of LegalOn, an established platform that seamlessly connects remote legal professionals with opportunities abroad, I have gained extensive knowledge in introducing roles that are a perfect match for those pursuing a remote working career in the legal industry.

Legal Writer or Content Creator: In their capacity as tele-legal writers, professionals who compose lawful documents for websites, blogs, publications, and various marketing materials are of great importance. Due to their meticulous research and writing capabilities, professional legal writers can create authoritative articles, case studies, white papers, and other materials that educate and hold the attention of audiences on a diverse array of legal topics. This role grants flexibility and autonomy; hence, writers can work from where they are comfortable, using their legal knowledge to create attention-grabbing content.

Virtual Paralegal: The tele-paralegals connect legal professionals working at a distance, delivering services like legal research, document preparation, case management, and client communication. Due to the development of technology and cloud-based legal software, virtual paralegals can easily cooperate with lawyers and law teams anywhere around the globe. This job provides an opportunity for a remote paralegal to use his or her legal skills and expertise in an environment where one can enjoy working remotely.

Legal Consultant or Advisor: A remote legal expert offers customized advice and solutions related to different law areas like contract review and compliance, intellectual property, and regulatory issues for clients. Using remote communication tools such as video conferencing platforms, legal advisors can offer strategic guidance to clients who are on the other side of the world. The role that remote work gives lawyers the chance to use their legal knowledge and expertise to counsel and solve their clients’ issues and achieve flexibility and autonomy.

Daniel Lewis, CEO, LegalOn

Virtual Paralegal: A Remote Opportunity

Becoming a Virtual Paralegal offers an outstanding opportunity for remote work within the legal sector. They perform many duties as traditional paralegals, such as drafting documents, conducting legal research, and managing case files. This role requires a deep understanding of legal procedures and documentation, along with the ability to work independently and communicate effectively with attorneys and clients through digital means. 

Another innovative role suited for remote work is an Online Dispute Resolution Specialist. This position involves mediating disputes between parties through online platforms, utilizing conflict resolution skills and legal knowledge to guide discussions and facilitate agreements without the need for in-person meetings. It’s a role that’s gaining popularity with the increase in online transactions and virtual legal services. Specialists in this area must be adept at communication, negotiation, and employing technology to manage disputes effectively.

Finally, a role as a Compliance Analyst is highly conducive to remote work. In this position, one ensures that the organization adheres to both internal policies and legal regulations. The job involves reviewing and analyzing legal documents, policies, and regulations to advise on compliance matters. It also may include training staff on compliance issues. Since much of the work involves document review and digital communication, it’s easily adaptable to a remote work environment, offering flexibility while playing a critical role in the legal and operational integrity of an organization.

The flexibility and autonomy of working remotely can be highly rewarding for those with the discipline and legal expertise to manage their responsibilities outside of a traditional office setting.

Stephen Hasner, Managing Partner, Hasner Law PC

Three Ideal Remote Legal Jobs

Legal Content Writer: As the legal industry increasingly embraces digital content, remote legal content writers are in high demand. These professionals research and produce legal articles, blog posts, and website content for law firms, legal publications, and legal tech companies.

Remote Paralegal: Many law firms and legal departments hire remote paralegals to assist with legal research, document preparation, and case management. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with attorneys and clients while providing vital support remotely.

Virtual Legal Assistant: With the advancement of legal tech, virtual legal assistants can perform administrative tasks, manage schedules, and handle client communication remotely. This role is well-suited for individuals with strong organizational and communication skills.

These positions offer flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the legal field while working remotely.

Michael Carr, Personal Injury Attorney, Carr & Carr Attorneys

Remote Contract Attorney: Work Anywhere

Remote Contract Attorney: When it comes to reviewing contracts, agreements, and legal paperwork, remote contract attorneys are essential. They offer their clients insightful analysis by looking for compliance, potential hazards, and legal ramifications in these documents. Contract attorneys can manage their workload and work from any location with the option of working remotely. For legal professionals who want to combine work and other obligations or who desire a flexible work environment, this position is perfect. Remote contract attorneys can collaborate with colleagues and clients worldwide while working alone or as part of an online team.

Neil Davies, Founder and Senior Partner, Caddick Davies Solicitors

Legal Transcription and Compliance Analysis

A good starting point is taking on the role of a remote court reporter. The work involves transcribing legal proceedings using video-conferencing technology and specialized software. It’s a role that plays a crucial part in accurately documenting depositions, hearings, and trials from afar, showcasing their attention to detail and keen listening skills.

Another similar job is becoming a legal transcriptionist. They support legal teams by accurately transcribing client meetings, court proceedings, and other important discussions, showcasing their ability to handle sensitive information with care.

Another promising job is that of a remote compliance analyst. They conduct compliance assessments and audits for companies from a distance, utilizing technology to access necessary data and documents. By ensuring adherence to legal regulations and internal policies, remote compliance analysts play a vital role in mitigating risks for businesses operating in complex regulatory environments.

Riley Beam, Managing Attorney, Douglas R. Beam, P.A.

Remote Paralegal and Legal Consultant Roles

Remote work has opened new avenues in the legal sector, allowing flexibility and innovation in delivering legal services.

As a lawyer and business owner, I’ve been able to observe and experience the benefits of remote work firsthand, and here are three jobs that I believe are great for remote workers who want to work in the legal field:

1. Remote Paralegal: This role involves assisting lawyers with research, document preparation, and other administrative tasks. With advanced technology and communication tools, paralegals can effectively support attorneys remotely while maintaining high efficiency and accuracy.

2. Virtual Legal Assistant: Similar to a paralegal, a virtual legal assistant provides administrative support to lawyers and law firms remotely. This can include managing calendars, scheduling appointments, and drafting correspondence. By working remotely, legal assistants can cater to the needs of multiple attorneys or firms while balancing their personal schedules.

3. Online Legal Consultant: With the rise of digital platforms and virtual meetings, legal consultants can now offer their services remotely to clients across different locations. This role involves providing expert advice on legal matters, reviewing contracts, and helping with compliance issues. Working remotely allows for a wider reach and a diverse client base for legal consultants.

Andrew Pickett, Founder and Lead Trial Attorney, Andrew Pickett Law

Legal Transcriptionist and Contract Manager

One job that’s excellent for remote workers in the legal field is that of a Legal Transcriptionist. This role involves listening to recorded legal proceedings, meetings, and various legal communications, and then accurately transcribing them into written documents. It requires a keen ear, fast typing skills, and familiarity with legal terminology. 

Another great remote role is that of a Contract Manager, who oversees the development and management of contracts for an organization. This job involves negotiating contract terms, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and monitoring the performance of contracts to ensure all parties meet their obligations. It requires excellent negotiation, organization, and communication skills. 

Lastly, working as a Legal Researcher is a fantastic opportunity. They support lawyers by gathering and analyzing legal resources, case law, statutes, regulations, and legal articles to assist in trial preparation, legal advice, or other legal services. This role demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and comprehensive knowledge of legal databases. With the vast majority of legal resources available online, researchers can efficiently work from anywhere, making it an ideal job for those looking to delve into legal work remotely.

Jonathan Feniak, General Counsel, LLC Attorney

Remote Contract Attorney and Transcriptions

The demand for working remotely is increasing in every sector. A particular set of workers, like students, single mothers, and retirees who can’t make it to the office regularly, are seeking remote opportunities where they can work for fixed hours from home and get paid decent salaries. I have received a few requests in my network from those who want to take up remote legal jobs. But what work can a legal firm provide that can be done remotely? Here are the three types of remote jobs I consider can be done:

1. Remote Contract Attorney – Since contract work is usually more about signing documents, drafting contracts, and reviewing them, there’s no need to visit court or any other location, which means this role can be fulfilled remotely. Documents can be easily signed and shared in today’s modern world, but one will need strong legal writing skills as they would be required during the drafting of contracts.

2. Legal Transcriptions – Yet another writing job, but this time, remote legal transcription would mean transcribing legal proceedings and preparing legal documents so attorneys can be assisted with case management. Many firms hire remote workers to transcribe court orders and share a copy with clients and personnel involved in the case, so better communication with everyone can be coordinated. With the help of cloud-based document management and automated transcription tools, this job can be managed remotely.

Martin Gasparian, Attorney and Owner, Maison Law

Paralegal and Remote Legal Counsel Jobs

Paralegal

As a paralegal, you’ll take on various responsibilities. Your main task is to assist attorneys in winning cases, primarily through legal research and support. Paralegals can’t offer legal advice or interact directly with the public; their role is dedicated to supporting lawyers. A high school diploma is necessary for this role, but an associate’s degree or paralegal certification is often preferred, and some jobs might require prior legal experience. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that paralegals have an average annual income of $56,230.

Contract Specialist

Working remotely as a contract specialist involves negotiating agreements between business clients, ensuring mutual satisfaction and legal compliance. This role doesn’t require a legal degree, but strong interpersonal skills are essential. You need a bachelor’s degree to be a contract specialist, and many positions also demand several years of experience. Some roles might require legal work or internship experience. Contract specialists typically earn between $57,717 and $69,786 annually.

Remote Legal Counsel (Lawyer)

The term ‘legal counsel’ is another way of saying ‘lawyer.’ In this role, you’re mainly responsible for researching, preparing, and presenting cases, along with drafting legal opinions. Many remote lawyers focus on areas like intellectual property or specialize in depositions. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is a minimum requirement, with many roles needing a Juris Doctorate or a legal practice license. The average lawyer in the U.S. earns about $121,317 per year.

Michael E. Farah, Founder, Realtor and Real Estate Attorney, The Farah Law Firm, P.C.

Virtual Legal Assistants Enhance Operations

At our injury law firm, virtual legal assistants play a crucial role in enhancing our operations. They handle administrative tasks, document drafting, and case management remotely, boosting our efficiency. By utilizing virtual assistants, we ensure seamless communication and collaboration while offering flexibility for remote work. This approach enables us to leverage the advantages of remote work while delivering top-notch service to clients. Alongside virtual assistants, legal professionals can pursue remote roles like legal researcher, virtual paralegal, and contract attorney. These positions allow for remote work while contributing expertise to the legal field, benefiting both professionals and firms alike.

Hunter Garnett, Personal Injury Lawyer, Managing Partner, Garnett Patterson Injury Lawyers

Legal Researcher and Remote Content Creator

The most fitting job would be that of a legal researcher and writer. This involves diving deep into legal topics, using online databases, court rulings, and academic journals to compile reports and documents. It’s a role for those with strong analytical skills, offering the freedom to work independently while making valuable contributions to the industry, especially if you can’t be on the field.

Another option is working as a contract attorney remotely. It involves handling various legal tasks for law firms, like document review, contract drafting, and litigation support. This setup offers flexibility, allowing lawyers to manage their workload from anywhere.

There’s also the option of becoming a content creator in the world of law, but it makes more sense if you already have enough experience in the field. Through blogs, podcasts, and social media, you can share legal insights with a global audience. Whether simplifying complex concepts or offering practical advice, your content can educate and empower others. It’s a creative way to work from home while making the law more accessible.

Alex Freeburg, Owner, Freeburg Law

Legal Writing and Consulting from Home

Working remotely in the legal field offers flexibility and diverse opportunities. Here are three jobs well-suited for remote legal work:

Legal Writer/Content Creator: Remote legal writers produce various types of legal content, including blog posts, articles, and legal documents. They often work for law firms, publishers, or as freelance writers.

Virtual Paralegal: Remote paralegals support lawyers and legal teams remotely. Their tasks may include legal research, drafting legal documents, and case management.

Online Legal Consultant: Remote legal consultants provide advisory services to clients via online platforms. They may specialize in various legal areas, such as contracts, intellectual property, or employment law.

These roles allow legal professionals to leverage their expertise while enjoying the benefits of remote work, such as flexible schedules and reduced commuting time.

Scott Distasio, Tampa Accident Injury Lawyer, Distasio Law Firm

Paralegal and Compliance Officer Go Remote

The three legal jobs that I think could be great options for remote work are as follows:

Paralegal – Many paralegal roles allow for full or partial remote work these days. Paralegals support attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and managing case files—tasks that can often be done virtually with the proper technology setup. This provides schedule flexibility.

Compliance Officer – Companies in regulated industries require compliance officers to ensure that legal and ethical standards are followed. Much of the compliance work, like reviewing policies and investigating issues, can happen remotely through video conferencing and database access.

Legal Writer/Editor – For those with strong writing and editing skills, legal writing jobs allow for the preparation of contracts, client updates, firm blogs, and more from anywhere. Many legal publishers and law firms hire freelance writers who are happy to work remotely.

In general, legal roles where work centers around research, documentation, and communication tend toward greater remote viability since face-to-face client meetings aren’t as crucial. Experience, proper technology resources, and strong organizational skills facilitate smooth remote productivity. These options leverage legal talents outside traditional office environments.

Loretta Kilday, DebtCC Spokesperson, Debt Consolidation Care

Legal Researcher and Compliance Analyst Remote

Drawing from personal experience, I’ve found that roles like Legal Researcher offer an excellent blend of legal analysis and remote flexibility.

During my time working remotely in this capacity, I’ve delved deep into case law and statutes while enjoying the freedom to structure my day around personal commitments.

Similarly, as a Contract Specialist, I’ve negotiated and drafted agreements from the comfort of my home office, leveraging digital collaboration tools to streamline communication with clients and colleagues.

Additionally, my stint as a Compliance Analyst involved conducting remote audits and ensuring regulatory adherence, demonstrating how legal professionals can excel in remote settings while contributing meaningfully to their organizations’ objectives.

These experiences underscore the viability and fulfillment that remote legal work can offer.

Aseem Jha, Founder & Head of Customer Delivery, Legal Consulting Pro