If you want to become a litigation analyst, you should be detail-oriented, enjoy research and have excellent communication skills. Professionals with specific skills and expertise can identify patterns and trends in the way the law is practiced. A combination of analytical and problem solving skills are required to be successful in this role.
The primary role of a ligation analyst is to review legal decisions. The analyst can use a variety of techniques to identify trends in legal cases, decisions and strategies. The results of this analysis can be used to help lawyers select the most successful strategy in a particular situation or to identify trends that require further research.
The first requirement to become a litigation analyst is the successful completion of post-secondary education in the law. A law degree is a graduate program and requires a minimum of seven years of school. A person who wants to become a litigation analyst must also complete courses in statistics, analysis, spotting trends and data manipulation. The combination of these skills is central to the role of a litigation analyst.
This is not an entry level position but one that requires at least three years of either legal research or data analysis experience. In this role, candidates must have excellent research skills, intermediate computer skills and superior written communication skills. In many cases, the final product is a report or paper that summarizes the findings of the analysis.
People who are interested in this type of work should look for entry-level positions as a legal researchers, law library catalogers or related positions. Any role that provides opportunities to enhance research skills and learn the most effective way to access data would be ideal. A position with a legal software company that creates research support tools is a great way to gain skills in both research and data analysis.
Once you become a litigation analyst, employment opportunities include large law firms, research institutions, law societies and government agencies. Take the time to research potential employers and learn about their primary area of practice. In preparation for a job interview, complete a more detailed review of litigation history and be ready to discuss the results of your review.
Career advancement opportunities once you become a litigation analyst include positions as a department head or senior analyst. Many people accept part-time positions as academic instructors at a local law school. These instructors might teach courses in legal research, history or analysis. In some circumstances, this type of school might provide the opportunity to become a full-time professor.