Future of Law: Navigating the Legal Career Landscape

A recent episode of the Lá Vem o Enem videocast provided a deep dive into the future of the legal profession, offering crucial guidance for students and aspiring lawyers. The discussion brought together experienced legal professionals to dissect the realities of the job market, the foundational purpose of a law degree, and the technological shifts reshaping the industry.

The conversation, moderated by journalists Diana Araújo and Felipe Lima, featured criminal lawyer Jéssica Souza and civil lawyer and legal advisor Luciana de Albuquerque Cavalcanti Brito. Their insights paint a comprehensive picture of what it takes to build a successful career in today's justice system.

The path to a first legal role is rarely straightforward. Luciana Cavalcanti explained that the initial career stage is defined by varied access criteria that differ significantly based on the chosen legal area and the candidate's profile. Factors such as competitive selection processes and prior experience directly shape early career opportunities.

She noted that securing an internship in a public office is particularly challenging for newcomers, as these positions often require a baseline of experience and involve formal selection procedures. In contrast, private law firms conduct their own internal hiring, where the candidate's personal profile plays a major role.

"Dificilmente você começa o curso de Direito e consegue um estágio em um órgão público. Eles exigem o mínimo de experiência, muitas vezes tem seleção. Em escritório de advocacia a seleção é privada. Vai depender muito do perfil [do candidato] também. Muitas vezes a influência familiar contribui: você pode ter um pai juiz, uma mãe que é promotora."

This reality underscores the importance of networking and personal connections in the early stages of a legal career.

A central theme of the discussion was the true purpose of legal education. Luciana Cavalcanti strongly emphasized that a law degree is not solely a pathway to passing public service exams. Instead, its core mission is to cultivate versatile professionals capable of operating across various legal fronts.

This comprehensive formation begins in the very first semesters. Modern curricula are designed to immediately broaden a student's perspective on law and society through foundational subjects.

• Ciência Política (Political Science)
• Estudo do Direito (Study of Law)
• Introduction to legal theory and social structures

The goal is to develop well-rounded legal minds. As Luciana powerfully stated:

"Começou o curso de Direito, pensem: lá, não formamos concurseiros, nós formamos operadores do Direito."

Contrary to common pessimism about the legal job market, Jéssica Souza offered a more optimistic and nuanced perspective. She argued that the market is not truly saturated, but rather that success depends heavily on individual dedication and clear professional direction.

She pointed out that while many students graduate in law each year, not everyone continues in the profession or commits to the necessary level of dedication. For those with a clear passion and focus, opportunities abound.

"Eu não vejo que esteja saturado. Acredito que o sol brilha para todo mundo. Tem muitas pessoas que se formam todos os anos em Direito, mas nem todo mundo continua na carreira, nem todo mundo se dedica. Se você sabe o que quer e gosta do que faz, não penso que seja [um mercado saturado]."

She provided a concrete example from her own practice in the area of racial crimes, noting a significant shortage of qualified professionals in that specific niche.

The conversation also turned to the future, with both experts highlighting the critical need for continuous adaptation to technological change. Jéssica Souza identified the integration of theoretical knowledge with modern technology as a fundamental skill for the next generation of lawyers.

She warned that professionals who fail to adapt will be left behind, especially as artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in the legal field. While many established lawyers show resistance to AI, the new generation is embracing it as a powerful tool.

"Quem não souber alinhar o conhecimento teórico com a tecnologia, vai ficar para trás. Tem muitos advogados, principalmente os mais antigos, que ainda tem muita resistência com IA. A nova geração chegou com tudo, com a cabeça mais fresca, abertos para usar a inteligência artificial ao seu favor, como se fosse seu assistente."

This shift suggests that future legal success will be defined not just by legal knowledge, but by the ability to leverage technology effectively.

The Lá Vem o Enem videocast offers a vital roadmap for anyone considering a career in law. The discussion makes it clear that the journey is multifaceted, requiring strategic thinking, dedication, and a forward-looking mindset.

Aspiring legal professionals should focus on building a strong personal profile, understanding that the degree is about becoming a legal operator, not just an exam candidate. Furthermore, embracing technology is no longer optional but essential for future success.

The full episode is available on the Lá Vem o Enem digital platforms, providing a valuable resource for students planning their next steps after the Enem.