I often do informational interviews with people who are considering law school or with law students who are considering public interest law. For those considering law school, I find that those who ask thoughtful, intentional questions are often trying to figure out whether a legal career aligns with their values, interests, and long-term goals. For law students, they are often trying to figure out how to best position themselves for a career in public interest law, including plaintiff-side employment law or education law and policy.
People explore their legal education and career paths in all kinds of ways. Some already have a specific job in mind, like public defender or immigration attorney, and may have been inspired by a personal matter or a lawyer they know. Others are wondering if law is a path that could help them make a difference and meet their financial goals. There’s no one right way to explore this—but asking the right questions during an informational interview can bring a lot of clarity.
Here are 10 questions you can tailor to your needs to ask during your next informational interview with a lawyer:
1. What drew you to the legal profession, and has that motivation changed over time?
This helps you understand what inspired their journey—and whether those motivations have evolved with experience.
2. Can you walk me through a typical day or week in your role?
Don’t assume you know exactly what a “civil rights attorney” or “corporate lawyer” does day-to-day. Ask. You might be surprised.
3. What do you enjoy most about your work—and what do you find most challenging?
This question might give you insight that is not readily accessible on a firm, organization, or agency’s website. Every job has highs and lows, and this will help you figure out what attorneys experience in law practice.
4. How did you choose your area of law?
Some people knew right away. Others stumbled into their niche. Their process might help you think through your own options.
5. What skills or experiences have been most valuable to your success?
Use this answer as a guide for what to focus on now—whether it’s legal research and writing, oral advocacy, or something else.
6. What do you wish you had known before going to law school?
This is where the gold is—real talk that doesn’t show up on law school websites or admissions brochures.
7. How do you focus on growing your legal career in your role while also focusing on your friendships, family, and things you truly enjoy doing outside of work?
The legal field is broad—some roles have rigid hours, others offer flexibility. Learn what this person’s rhythm looks like.
8. How has your identity or background influenced your legal career, if at all?
If particular parts of your identity(ies) are important to you and you want to know what it’s like to navigate the legal career as a person from a particular community(ies), consider asking this question for inspiration. For first-gen, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, or disabled students, this opens space for candid discussion about the challenges and strengths that come from your lived experience. Be kind, compassionate, and understanding when asking this question. Some people may be open and candid—others may not. Respect their boundaries.
9. What trends or changes are you seeing in your field right now?
Whether it’s AI, changes in immigration policy, or the rising cost of legal services—this question can give you a future-focused view of the profession.
10. Is there anyone else you recommend I speak with?
Always close with this. It’s a natural way to grow your network and keep the conversation going.
Want to Go Deeper About Networking? Use My Workbook.
Preparing questions is just one part of getting ready to network in the legal field—especially as an aspiring lawyer. In Chapter 3 of my workbook, Do You Want To Be A Lawyer?, you’ll find tips on “Creating Connections: Networking for Aspiring Lawyers,” including a full Informational Interview Guide that covers:
- How to reach out (with email templates)
- How to prepare for an informational interview
- How to track and reflect on what you learn
You can learn more about the workbook here and start using it right away. It’s filled with exercises to help you figure out not just if law is right for you—but how to pursue it in a way that honors your identity, values, and long-term goals.
The workbook is available for purchase and was created especially for those exploring a legal career through a thoughtful, intentional lens. It’s been particularly helpful for first-generation students, like myself, who want more clarity and confidence before making such a big decision.
Final Tip:
Informational interviews don’t need to feel stiff or formal. Be curious, be yourself, and treat them like real conversations. Most lawyers want to pay it forward—and your conversation might just be a highlight of their day.
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