Which industries will hire the most legal professionals in 2025?

Our founder, Steven Rothberg, likes to say that he’s a fully recovered lawyer. His friends and family will push back on the “fully” part of that statement, sometimes jokingly and sometimes not so much.

Lawyers, paralegals, and other legal professionals often work for law firms. But not all do. In fact, many don’t. To help those who are early in their careers and considering entering the legal profession figure out where to focus their job searching efforts, we reached out to 19 hiring experts to find out what industries are most likely to hire the most legal professionals in 2025.

• Tech Sector Will Hire Most Legal Professionals
• Fintech Industry Will Lead in Legal Hiring
• Tech Industry to Employ Most Lawyers
• Healthcare and Tech Sectors Need Legal Experts
• Healthcare Industry to See Highest Legal Demand
• Tech Sector to Lead Legal Hiring in 2025
• Tech Sector to Demand Most Legal Professionals
• Insurance Industry to Require More Legal Experts
• Healthcare and Insurance Sectors to Hire Most
• Entertainment and Media to Hire Many Lawyers
• Tech Industry to Lead in Legal Hiring
• Startups to Be Major Legal Employers
• Tech Sector to Hire Most Legal Professionals
• Intellectual Property Assistance to Increase
• Tech Sector to Be Major Legal Employer
• Real Estate to Hire Many Legal Professionals
• AI Developments to Spur Legal Specialists
• Financial Services Industry to Lead Legal Hiring
• Insurance Industry to Require More Legal Support

Tech Sector Will Hire Most Legal Professionals

In my professional opinion, as an experienced attorney and CPA, I believe the tech sector will hire the most legal professionals by 2025. Legislation around privacy, digital rights, and tech-related intellectual property is rapidly evolving, requiring increased legal oversight. I have firsthand experience in this area, having helped a promising SaaS start-up navigate their IPO in the late ’90s. The importance of understanding complex, often international, regulatory environments was paramount to their public debut. Another experience that validates this prediction is my current work advising tech entrepreneurs on the intricacies of asset protection and company formation. Start-ups often struggle with patent protections, tax regulations, and data safety—realms in which legal professionals shine. As technologies continue to proliferate and the industry expands, I forecast an even greater demand for legal services. This isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of our industry.

Mark Pierce, Founder & CEO, Wyoming LLC Attorney

Fintech Industry Will Lead in Legal Hiring

In my professional perspective, the Fintech industry will hire the most legal professionals by 2025. This prediction draws on my experience in both law and finance, juxtaposing the burgeoning innovation in Fintech with the need for extensive legal oversight. Regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, data privacy, intellectual property rights, and cross-border transactions are just a few areas where legal professionals are indispensable in this industry. A real-life example would be my time with Wells Fargo Advisors LLC, where we witnessed firsthand the growing demand for attorneys specializing in financial technologies. Continuing technological advancements, increasing international trade and the expanding global market make this quite feasible. Moreover, the ongoing shifts in legislation concerning digital currencies, such as Bitcoin, require not just developers and traders, but also legal experts to navigate the complex, dynamic digital financial landscape.

Jonathan Feniak, General Counsel, LLC Attorney

Tech Industry to Employ Most Lawyers

The tech industry is expected to hire the most lawyers in 2025. Companies need lawyers to help them understand the complicated rules and protect their intellectual property as AI grows quickly, data privacy concerns rise, and cyber threats change constantly. For example, the rise of GDPR and other similar laws around the world has created a big need for lawyers who specialize in data security and compliance.

My experience tells me that new areas like blockchain and cryptocurrency also need legal help to set up rules and handle disputes. This trend was shown by the 20% rise in tech-related law jobs in 2022 alone. As technology advances faster, tech companies will need more lawyers who can adapt to new problems and help them reduce risks.

Mark Hirsch, Co-Founder and Personal Injury Attorney, Templer & Hirsch

Healthcare and Tech Sectors Need Legal Experts

From my 32 years of experience in law, I anticipate that the healthcare and tech industries will require a significant intake of legal professionals by 2025. The healthcare sector is constantly confronting challenges regarding medical malpractice, data privacy and patent disputes, which requires continual legal counsel. Similarly, with technological advancements and increased digitization, tech companies face growing concerns around intellectual property, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance, necessitating more legal support.

For instance, in my practice, I have seen an upsurge in medical malpractice and nursing home neglect cases, reflecting the significant demand for legal professionals within the healthcare sector. On the tech front, as our world becomes more interconnected through the internet, there’s a notable escalation in litigation regarding data breaches, emphasizing the need for legal experts who comprehend this evolving landscape. This setting has provided a ripe environment for cyber attorneys and should continue to do so till 2025 and beyond.

Scott Distasio, Founder, Distasio

Healthcare Industry to See Highest Legal Demand

I believe the healthcare industry will likely see the highest demand for legal professionals in 2025 for a few key reasons. First and foremost, the healthcare sector is undergoing a period of rapid transformation, driven by a combination of technological advancements, evolving regulatory frameworks, and shifting consumer preferences.

These changes are creating a complex web of legal and compliance challenges that healthcare organizations must navigate. From navigating the implications of telemedicine and data privacy regulations to ensuring seamless mergers and acquisitions, legal expertise will be in high demand to guide these organizations through uncharted territory. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has thrust the healthcare industry into the global spotlight, heightening the need for legal professionals who can help healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms mitigate risks, manage liabilities, and ensure regulatory compliance.

As the industry continues to evolve in response to the pandemic’s long-term effects, the need for specialized legal counsel will only continue to grow. Moreover, the healthcare industry is highly regulated, with constantly changing laws, policies, and guidelines that organizations must adhere to. Whether it’s navigating reimbursement policies, managing patient safety and quality of care issues, or addressing employment-related matters, healthcare leaders will increasingly rely on the guidance of experienced legal professionals to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

As a managing partner, a critical role that legal expertise plays in the healthcare industry. By partnering with skilled attorneys, our healthcare clients have been able to navigate complex regulatory hurdles, mitigate risks, and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. Given the ongoing transformation and heightened regulatory scrutiny in this sector, I believe the demand for legal professionals in healthcare will continue to surge in the years ahead.

Michael Saile, Jr., Managing Partner (Attorney), Cordisco & Saile LLC

Tech Sector to Lead Legal Hiring in 2025

In 2025, I believe the technology sector will lead the charge in hiring legal professionals, particularly in areas related to privacy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property. As tech companies continue to innovate and expand, they’re encountering an ever-growing web of legal complexities, from navigating global privacy regulations like GDPR to addressing intellectual property disputes over artificial intelligence and software. With data becoming a key commodity, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks will necessitate in-house legal teams and external counsel with specialized expertise.

For legal professionals, this means sharpening skills in emerging fields like data privacy, blockchain technology, and AI regulation. At Hones Law, I’ve observed increasing inquiries from clients about how these laws impact employment practices, consumer rights, and even contractual disputes. Lawyers must anticipate shifts in regulation and develop proactive strategies to support businesses adapting to this landscape. The tech sector’s legal needs will ripple outward, touching other industries like healthcare and finance, as they too grapple with the integration of technology into their operations. This interconnectedness makes technology a foundational industry for legal professionals to monitor and prepare for.

Ed Hones, Attorney At Law, Hones Law Employment Lawyers PLLC

Tech Sector to Demand Most Legal Professionals

I believe the technology sector, particularly industries focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data privacy, will demand the most legal professionals by 2025. As technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, legal regulations are struggling to keep up. For instance, the rapid adoption of AI tools has sparked debates over intellectual property rights, algorithmic bias, and ethical considerations. Companies in these spaces need legal guidance not only to ensure compliance with existing laws but also to navigate uncharted territory as regulations evolve globally.

On top of that, data breaches and cyberattacks have become increasingly common, making cybersecurity law a key area of focus. With frameworks like GDPR in Europe and evolving U.S. privacy laws at the state level, businesses are scrambling to stay compliant. Attorneys specializing in these fields will be tasked with crafting data policies, advising on cross-border data transfers, and litigating cases where privacy is violated. Tech giants and startups alike are already gearing up for these challenges, and the demand for skilled legal professionals in these areas will only grow.

Gordon Hirsch, Founder and Managing Attorney, Hirsch Law Group

Insurance Industry to Require More Legal Experts

I would point out that legal professionals will be needed to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, manage risk, and resolve disputes as the insurance industry becomes more complex with the integration of new technologies such as AI, blockchain, and telematics. Lawyers will also be in demand to address emerging issues such as cyber insurance, health insurance reform, and life insurance policies related to aging populations. 

Legal experts will help insurance companies adapt to new market demands and regulations while protecting their interests in an evolving landscape. You see, the rise of insurance companies and online insurance services will require legal professionals to navigate through complex contractual agreements and intellectual property rights. According to a report by Statista, the global insurance market is projected to reach $7.5 trillion by 2025, creating a significant demand for legal professionals in this industry. 

I would mention that insurance companies will also require legal professionals to mitigate potential risks and protect their assets, which is becoming increasingly important in our unpredictable world. For instance, they will need experts in areas such as cybersecurity, data privacy, and intellectual property to safeguard their sensitive information and prevent any legal complications.

Daniel Cook, HR / Marketing Executive, Mullen and Mullen

Healthcare and Insurance Sectors to Hire Most

The healthcare and insurance sectors will likely hire the most legal professionals. The evolution of healthcare laws and the increase in complex insurance claims will drive demand for attorneys specializing in injury and compliance. Our firm has noticed a rise in cases requiring expertise in navigating medical malpractice and workplace injury disputes.

This trend will continue as healthcare innovations and evolving workplace norms bring new legal challenges. Lawyers with a strong understanding of liability and regulatory frameworks will be indispensable in ensuring fair outcomes for both providers and claimants.

David E. Preszler, Partner, Preszler Injury Lawyers

Entertainment and Media to Hire Many Lawyers

Entertainment and media is likely to hire many legal professionals by 2025. The rapid growth in digital streaming platforms, augmented reality experiences, and content creation avenues means these industries face increasingly complex legal challenges. Projects often involve intellectual property rights, distribution agreements, and talent contracts, all of which must be navigated with precision. The ongoing evolution of technology also introduces new legal gray areas, like virtual reality content licensing or the usage of AI in creating media. As companies seek to protect their content from piracy and ensure compliance with an evolving landscape of international laws, the demand for skilled lawyers in this sector continues to surge.

Focusing on niche legal specialization can be a game-changer for legal professionals. Familiarity with digital rights management and the legal intricacies of cross-platform content sharing can set an individual apart in a job market that’s moving toward specialization. Developing a firm understanding of tech agreements and privacy laws related to user data can provide legal practitioners with an edge, making them indispensable in entertainment and media. This knowledge arms professionals with the ability to advise clients on how to navigate and leverage the emerging digital dynamics effectively, ensuring that all parties benefit from legally sound strategies.

Casey Meraz, CEO, Juris Digital

Tech Industry to Lead in Legal Hiring

I believe that in 2025, the technology industry will likely hire the most legal professionals, driven by the rapid development of AI and the legal challenges it brings. As AI becomes more ingrained in business and daily life, transforming industries at breakneck speed, the tech sector will rely heavily on legal professionals to manage risks, ensure compliance, and uphold public trust, making it a hotspot for legal hiring.

With AI generating everything from creative content to complex algorithms, questions surrounding ownership of AI-generated work are becoming increasingly relevant. Additionally, the vast amounts of data AI systems pose significant privacy concerns. Therefore, legal professionals specializing in these areas will be in high demand to help companies mitigate risks while innovating responsibly.

We should also remember the ethical considerations surrounding AI. Bias, transparency, discrimination, and fairness carry real legal implications, requiring skilled professionals to guide companies toward responsible innovation. Companies will look to legal teams to guide them in building AI systems that are compliant, equitable, and socially responsible.

Agata Szczepanek, Career Expert & Community Manager, LiveCareer

Startups to Be Major Legal Employers

The startup industry is set to be a major employer of legal professionals by 2025. Many startups, especially those in tech, need legal help to navigate complex regulations, protect intellectual property, and secure funding. With innovation at their core, startups often face unique legal challenges that go beyond traditional business concerns. This need for specialized legal expertise fuels demand for lawyers who understand both the legal landscape and the specific needs of budding companies.

Startups often prioritize agility and adaptability, and legal professionals who can offer flexible solutions will have a distinct advantage. Lawyers who are well-versed in startup culture can focus on creating streamlined legal processes and offering scalable contracts that can grow as the business evolves. Working with legal counsel who understands equity arrangements, fundraising rounds, and regulatory compliance can be invaluable. Building relationships with key decision-makers in startup ecosystems can open up opportunities to work with emerging businesses early on, establishing trust and paving the way for long-term collaboration.

Andy Gillin, Attorney & Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys

Tech Sector to Hire Most Legal Professionals

The technology sector will hire the most legal professionals, driven by several key factors. As technology evolves at an unprecedented rate, businesses face increasingly complex legal challenges related to data privacy, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. These issues are particularly prominent in industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing, where legal frameworks are still developing, and businesses need expert guidance to navigate new and often ambiguous laws.

Data privacy and cybersecurity will be major drivers for legal hires. With rising concerns about breaches and data misuse, companies invest heavily in legal teams to ensure compliance with stringent regulations like the GDPR in Europe and CCPA in California. Legal professionals with expertise in these areas will be essential to help businesses protect sensitive information, mitigate risks, and stay compliant.

The growth of AI and automation also presents new challenges around intellectual property rights, contract law, and employment regulations. Companies in tech will need legal professionals to help them manage partnerships, licensing agreements, and the implications of AI on workforce dynamics.

In response to these challenges, tech companies will seek lawyers who are not only well-versed in traditional legal principles but also understand the nuances of emerging technologies. As a result, the demand for legal professionals in the tech sector will likely surge, making it one of the largest employers of legal talent in 2025.

Ken LaMance, Attorney & General Counsel, LegalMatch

Intellectual Property Assistance to Increase

While I cannot crystal ball what will happen in 2025, it is my view that more and more individuals will need intellectual property assistance in the future. Once the purview of big industry, small businesses and individuals recognize the value of their own intellectual property, from trademarks to inventions to all the photographs and videos saved on a smartphone or posted to social media. Similarly, the advent of artificial intelligence and the ability to clone a person’s likeness and voice into a high-quality video highlight a person’s fundamental characteristics as their own intellectual property. Society is going to need more intellectual property professionals – attorneys, patent agents, and paralegals – as the 21st Century unfolds.

Jeremy M. Stipkala, Ph.D., J.D., U.S. Patent Attorney, Thrive IP Intellectual Property Law Firm

Tech Sector to Be Major Legal Employer

The technology sector worldwide is growing quickly, with a particular emphasis on cloud computing, data analytics, internet services, and artificial intelligence. Strong legal frameworks are necessary to handle the complex regulatory contexts brought about by this growth.

As new technologies (like blockchain and artificial intelligence) come to light, there will be an increasing demand for legal knowledge to handle particular issues pertaining to responsibility, intellectual property, and morality. Further, laws such as GDPR become more widely implemented, businesses require compliance-focused IP attorneys to make sure they are meeting their legal duties with regard to data security and privacy.

Due to the growing complexity of data laws and the need to comply with international rules, the technology sector is expected to be a significant employer of legal experts in 2025.

PRITY KHASTGIR, International Patent Attorney, Tech Corp International Strategist

Real Estate to Hire Many Legal Professionals

Real estate and urban development will likely hire a large number of legal professionals as cities expand and infrastructural projects increase. The need for expertise in property law, zoning regulations, and environmental impact assessments will grow as urban planners and developers undertake large-scale projects, especially in rapidly urbanizing regions.

The real estate and urban development sector requires legal professionals to ensure that developments comply with increasingly complex local and international laws, including those pertaining to environmental impact, heritage preservation, and land use. As urban spaces become denser and more complex, the legal challenges in developing these areas responsibly and sustainably will necessitate a greater number of skilled legal professionals.

Jeffrey A. Preszler, Partner, Preszler Law Alberta

AI Developments to Spur Legal Specialists

Rapid developments in Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) will spur a new generation of legal specialists, focused on understanding and addressing the unique legal issues that will arise in the deployment of AI technologies across various industries. From manufacturing to consulting, companies will take steps to leverage AI technology or they will be left behind. True professionals know the importance of acting with intention, and they will need to hire more AI legal professionals in 2025 and beyond.

Derek Colvin, Attorney, Waldrop & Colvin

Financial Services Industry to Lead Legal Hiring

In 2025, the financial services industry will likely hire the most legal professionals. This is driven by increasing regulatory scrutiny, particularly around privacy laws, data protection, and compliance with global financial standards.

The rapid rise of digital finance, cryptocurrency, and fintech innovations also demands specialized legal expertise to navigate evolving legal frameworks. Furthermore, financial institutions are facing heightened risks in cybersecurity and fraud prevention, requiring robust legal oversight to mitigate liabilities.

Daniel Abiodun, Paralegal Law Firm, D.A. Commissioning & Legal Services, Barrie Ontario.

Insurance Industry to Require More Legal Support

It’s definitely going to be the insurance industry. Insurance is all about risk management, and as we face more health crises and accidents, the demand for legal support will only grow. Even right now, with the ongoing changes in health care policies, insurers need lawyers to help interpret new regulations and handle disputes over claims.

There’s also a rising trend in personal injury cases related to things like car accidents and workplace injuries. As people become more aware of their rights, they’re more likely to seek legal help when they feel wronged.

Plus, the industry is facing more scrutiny than ever, and that means more lawyers to help them stay on the right side of the law.

Alex Freeburg, Owner, Freeburg Law