By Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam, Esq, ACIARb (UK), ACArb, AICMC, ACIS, ACITN
Treasurer, NBA Abuja Branch (2022-2024)
Introduction
For many Nigerian lawyers, the robe and wig are symbols of prestige but they do not always come with prosperity. Court adjournments, delayed payments and fluctuating briefs can turn even the most brilliant legal mind into a reluctant hustler.
But here is the truth that more lawyers are beginning to embrace, you can build wealth beyond your legal fees without abandoning your practice.
Welcome to the Side Business Playbook your guide to starting and running a profitable venture while still wearing the gown with pride.
A. Choosing the Right Side Business (Without Losing Focus)
Not every business is for every lawyer. The key is to find a side venture that:
1. Aligns with your interests
2. Does not clash with legal ethics
3. Respect your time and attention
Here are side businesses that complement legal practice:
1. Legal Tech Solutions
Build or partner in tools that help lawyers or law firms like case management software, contract automation or virtual legal assistants.
2. Publishing & Education
Write and sell eBooks, create digital courses, or host webinars on niche legal topics e.g., intellectual property for creatives, startup law in Nigeria.
3. Real Estate
A timeless income stream. Lawyers often have insider access to land deals and property transactions. Use your legal skills to vet and invest wisely.
4. Consulting
Offer niche consulting in compliance, governance, immigration, or startup formation. Position yourself as an expert, not just a generalist.
5. E-commerce or Product-Based Business
If you are entrepreneurial, you can sell physical products (e.g., wigs, legal attire, books) or branded items either online or through affiliate partnerships.
B.Time Management for Lawyerpreneurs
You already have a demanding schedule. How do you run a side business without your legal career or your health falling apart?
✅ Set Clear Boundaries
1. Allocate fixed days/times for business tasks (e.g., weekends or evenings).
2. Use a project management tool like Trello, Notion, or Google Calendar to stay organized.
✅ Build Systems, Not Workloads
1. Automate what you can: payment links, social media posts, email responders.
2. Delegate early: hire a virtual assistant, social media manager or accountant.
✅ Do not Hide It—Structure It
Register your side business with CAC. Open a separate account. Treat it professionally, not as a side hustle. This builds credibility and financial separation.
C.Lawyers Who Are Thriving in Business
Let us move beyond theory. Here are real examples (without names) of Nigerian lawyers who have successfully built side businesses:
D. The Litigator-Turned-Fashion Brand Owner
A female lawyer in Abuja began making court attires and legal fashion accessories. Today, her brand is stocked nationwide and worn by senior advocates and judges.
1.The Corporate Lawyer Building a Real Estate Empire
A Lagos-based solicitor invested in distressed properties, flipping and reselling them with his legal knowledge. He now runs a real estate consultancy as a second arm of his firm.
2.The Legal Educator
A young lawyer launched a paid Telegram group for law school prep. He makes a consistent income from subscriptions, speaking engagements, and sponsored content.
3.The Lawyer-Publisher
One lawyer started a niche magazine and blog focused on legal trends and reforms. What began as a passion project attracted advertising from law firms and legal tech sponsors.
✅ 3 Business Ideas That Require Minimal Capital
1. Digital Downloads (e.g., contract templates, guides)
2. Online Coaching (e.g., CV review for law students or legal career consulting)
3. Affiliate Marketing (earn by recommending legal tools, books, or events)
✅ Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Choose
You do not have to quit the law to pursue profit. You just need to create a system that allows your legal expertise and entrepreneurial instincts to flourish.
Remember:
1. A side business is not a betrayal of your legal career. It is a buffer for your income.
2. With structure, focus, and the right opportunity, your second stream can soon become your strongest.
So whether it is a digital product, a rental apartment, or a thriving boutique venture do not wait for someday.
Start small. Start smart. Start now.
Because a financially empowered lawyer is a freer, more fulfilled lawyer. #FinancePotentials
Connect with me on Social Media:
X: CIAO Legal
LinkedIn: Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam
Instagram: CIAO Legal
Facebook: Chinelo Ofoegbunam
