For years, you’ve lived on the rhythm of cases, clients, and deadlines. Retirement from law promises freedom—but also raises a daunting question: “What now?”
Many attorneys discover that stepping away from practice doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose. Instead, it opens the door to second careers, new passions, and hobbies long deferred. Whether you crave intellectual stimulation, want to give back, or dream of trying something completely different, your retirement can be as dynamic as your legal career—if you plan it intentionally.
This guide explores the world of second acts for lawyers: teaching, writing, mediation, nonprofit work, entrepreneurship, and creative pursuits. We’ll also discuss how hobbies can evolve into fulfilling endeavors, and how to balance productivity with relaxation.
Why Attorneys Struggle With “What’s Next”
1. Identity Tied to the Profession
As discussed in Blog 7, attorneys often define themselves through law. Without that identity, many feel aimless.
2. High Achievers by Nature
Lawyers are used to striving, competing, and winning. Retirement without goals feels unnatural.
3. Intellectual Craving
The law challenges the mind. When that stimulation ends, boredom can quickly set in.
4. Delayed Passions
Many lawyers put hobbies and interests aside for decades, unsure how to restart them.
💡 Tip: Reframe retirement not as the end of your career—but as the beginning of your next chapter.
Second Careers for Retired Attorneys
1. Teaching and Academia
Many retired attorneys find joy in sharing their knowledge.
Adjunct professor roles at law schools or community colleges
Guest lectures on trial advocacy, ethics, or business law
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) presentations for bar associations
Case Example: Attorney Davis transitioned into teaching legal writing at a local university. She found it rewarding to mentor students and enjoyed the structured routine without the stress of billable hours.
2. Mediation and Arbitration
Alternative dispute resolution allows lawyers to use their expertise without full trial schedules.
Offers flexibility and part-time income
Growing demand as courts encourage ADR
Requires certification in some states
💡 Tip: Especially appealing for litigators who want to stay sharp without courtroom battles.
3. Consulting and Coaching
Retired lawyers can advise:
Small law firms on management and succession planning
Businesses on compliance or governance
Younger lawyers on career development
Example: A retired corporate lawyer became a consultant for startups, helping draft contracts and policies. It provided purpose and extra income.
4. Nonprofit and Advocacy Work
Many attorneys channel their skills into causes they care about.
Pro bono work through bar emeritus programs
Board service for nonprofits
Policy advocacy at local or state levels
⚠️ Tip: Look for emeritus attorney programs in your state that allow retired lawyers to practice pro bono with reduced requirements.
5. Writing and Publishing
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing, retirement offers the time.
Legal memoirs or reflections on your career
Fiction, including legal thrillers
Articles for bar journals, blogs, or newspapers
Writing keeps the mind sharp and allows you to share your perspective.
6. Entrepreneurship
Some attorneys start entirely new ventures:
Consulting firms
Small businesses unrelated to law (cafés, travel services, online ventures)
Real estate investment
Example: A retired estate planner launched a financial coaching business for young families, blending his legal background with personal finance interests.
Turning Hobbies Into Purpose
Retirement offers time to explore interests once sidelined.
1. Creative Pursuits
Painting, photography, woodworking
Music lessons or joining a choir
Writing poetry, plays, or novels
2. Travel and Exploration
Extended trips without work constraints
Cultural immersion programs or language learning
Travel blogging or photography as creative outlets
3. Physical Activities
Golf, tennis, hiking, or cycling
Yoga or tai chi for wellness
Competing in senior athletic events
4. Volunteering and Mentorship
High school or college mentorship programs
Civic boards and community leadership roles
Coaching debate teams or mock trial programs
💡 Tip: Many lawyers find fulfillment in blending hobbies with service—like teaching photography at community centers or volunteering legal skills for nonprofits.
Balancing Productivity and Relaxation
One of the biggest risks in retirement is leaning too far in one direction: overcommitting to new projects or disengaging completely.
Strategies for Balance
Choose 1–2 major commitments (teaching, board service) and leave room for hobbies
Schedule downtime just as intentionally as obligations
Be open to seasonal rhythms—more activity in some months, more rest in others
Case Studies: Reinventing Retirement
The Litigator Turned Mediator
Attorney Johnson, known for high-stakes courtroom battles, transitioned into mediation at 68. He found satisfaction in helping resolve disputes without the grind of litigation.
The Family Lawyer Who Found Art
Attorney Ramirez closed her practice at 65 and returned to painting, a passion she hadn’t touched since law school. She now exhibits locally and teaches community art classes.
The Corporate Attorney Entrepreneur
Attorney Singh retired from corporate law but launched a consulting firm for small businesses. He discovered that his skills had value beyond traditional law and enjoyed mentoring entrepreneurs.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Doing Nothing: Total disengagement often leads to depression and decline
Overcommitting: Filling every hour can cause burnout—even in retirement
Ignoring Passions: Focusing only on law-related roles may miss opportunities for joy
Neglecting Wellness: A second career means little without physical and mental health
Failing to Plan Early: Waiting until after retirement to think about “what’s next” can lead to drift
Checklist: Designing Your Second Act
✅ Reflect on passions and interests set aside during practice
✅ Explore second careers (teaching, mediation, consulting, nonprofits)
✅ Develop hobbies into structured activities
✅ Balance productivity with rest and wellness
✅ Stay socially engaged through clubs, boards, or travel
✅ Leave room for growth and new discoveries
Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—it means redirecting your energy. The key is preparation.
👉 Take our Exit Readiness Assessment to ensure your exit plan includes not only financial and ethical steps, but also a fulfilling second act.