The development of skills and habits conducive to legal reasoning is more important than the subject matter. Courses in literature, language, speech, composition, and logic cultivate such skills. Questionnaires several years ago asked leaders of the Bench and Bar which prelaw college subjects they considered most valuable. A law degree represents a very flexible career choice. Several famous television journalists have law degrees.
Lawyers are distinguishable in terms of whether they represent individuals or institutions.
Some work for the state, federal, or city government. Albuquerque's largest private law firm employs about 50 lawyers. There is no standard wisdom on where new openings are likely to occur. New or migrating lawyers in growing areas like the Southwest, however, seem to find jobs with, little difficulty. Income varies greatly with location, experience, area of specialization, and education.