Areas of Study
Ethics and compliance professionals are stewards of corporate behavior. They foster a moral culture that brings out the best in others, while safeguarding their company’s assets from internal and external harm. St. Thomas offers a concentration and a joint degree option in this area.
A civil litigator will handle a variety of non-criminal matters for clients. Some cases will be resolved through a trial, while others will be handled through a resolution process, such as arbitration, negotiation or mediation—either independent of the court system or during the in-court process.
To pursue a career as a prosecutor or public defender, an attorney in a state or federal agency, or a private defense attorney you need a strong foundation in criminal law and procedure, and an understanding of the issues facing our justice system, such as mass incarceration, sentencing and implicit bias.
General practice attorneys do not have a specific practice area, but rather handle a broad range of cases. Many general practitioners work in small firms or in a solo practice.
An understanding of global issues and legal systems outside the U.S. is key for those interested in practicing international and comparative law, whether it is at a multinational corporation or as part of a career advocating for human rights.
Public interest lawyers advocate for civil rights and social justice causes and help individuals who might not otherwise receive legal assistance in both civil and criminal matters. They work for non-profits, legal aid organizations, as state and federal prosecutors and for human rights organizations.
Lawyers who practice intellectual property (IP) law assist the innovation and creativity of individuals and businesses through patent, copyright, trademark and related laws. Related practice areas include data privacy, cybersecurity and entrepreneurship.
Lawyers who practice business law may work as litigators or business counselors at law firms or corporations. Many specialize in areas such as tax law, contracts and mergers, securities law or employment law. They are skilled at investigating claims, drafting agreements, negotiating and trial work.
