Meet the Innovators

Neil Handwerker, a former practicing lawyer, and Kimberly Fine, an authority in executive education and governance, are at the forefront of this initiative. Both recognized a critical gap: a lack of resources available to lawyers seeking to transition out of formal legal practice. Their collaboration led to the creation of ex judicata, aiming to equip lawyers with the necessary tools, resources, and community support.

“We’re here to show that a JD isn’t just a law degree,” said Kimberly. “It’s a degree in complex problem-solving — and the world needs more of that.”

The Challenge of Isolation

Many lawyers experience what Neil refers to as a “culture of isolation,” often confined to specific practice areas with limited insight into other opportunities. The stark choices typically presented—advancement or exiting the profession—can leave lawyers feeling adrift.

“Lawyers just keep swimming forward without pausing to ask themselves if they’re happy or fulfilled,” Neil noted.

ex judicata’s Approach: Navigating Career Transitions

ex judicata seeks to facilitate career transitions for lawyers through a variety of resources:

• EXJ Career Match Diagnostic: A 20 to 30-minute assessment developed by PhDs in organizational behavior to gauge success probabilities in non-legal fields.
• Job Board: A carefully curated list of over 1,100 JD-advantage roles across different industries.
• Coaches’ Corner: Complimentary sessions with career coaches to refine resumes and strategize career moves.
• Talent Network: A platform connecting lawyers with employers who value a JD in non-legal positions.

Kimberly highlights the range of opportunities available: “From compliance and public policy to sales and marketing, there’s a wide array of roles where legal training shines.”

Reasons Behind Career Changes

Not all lawyers leave due to dissatisfaction; many are pursuing better work-life balance or intellectual growth. The pandemic served as a catalyst for reevaluation among many, prompting lawyers to reconsider their priorities.

“For the first time, lawyers were home for dinner with their families, and they realized there’s more to life than billing hours,” Kimberly explained, noting that the perpetual pressure of the billable hour remains a significant factor in career pivots.

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Law

ex judicata identifies numerous roles where legal skills are beneficial, including:

• Compliance and risk management
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion leadership
• Sales and business development
• Brand and product management

Neil shared insights on the talents lawyers possess: “Lawyers bring incredible skills in communication, negotiation, and issue-spotting — qualities that businesses need more than ever.”

Acknowledgment from Legal Education and Firms

ex judicata has garnered support from both law schools and law firms:

• Law Schools: Many institutions are integrating ex judicata’s resources into their career services, which positively impacts ABA employment metrics.
• Law Firms: Progressive firms recognize the benefits of aiding associates wishing to transition, thereby retaining talent within their networks.

“By helping lawyers transition successfully, firms actually strengthen their alumni networks and client relationships,” Kimberly noted.

Actionable Steps for Transitioning Lawyers

If you are contemplating leaving traditional legal practice, consider these practical steps provided by Neil and Kimberly:

• Complete the EXJ Career Match Diagnostic to identify your strengths in non-legal fields.
• Read success stories of other lawyers who have transitioned effectively.
• Stay true to yourself and ignore discouraging voices; it’s your career path.
• Utilize resources such as ex judicata’s job board and coaching services to explore opportunities.

Building a Community of Change

Beyond tools and resources, ex judicata aims to create a supportive community. Their WeFunder campaign invites supporters to invest in their mission, fostering a unified vision for the future of legal careers.

“Changing someone’s job often changes their life,” Neil shared. “And that’s what drives us — to help lawyers find careers that bring them fulfillment and joy.”

If you’re ready to explore new career avenues, visit ex judicata and start your journey. Your JD can be a gateway to diverse paths rather than a limitation.