5 Lawyer Personality Types: ISTJ, INTJ, ESTJ, ENTP and INTP

Contrary to popular belief, not all lawyers are cold, boring and greedy. Such a diverse field is bound to attract a diverse group of people — and studies on lawyers’ personalities prove it. Some lawyers are feeling while others are analytical; some lawyers are temperamental while others almost always remain calm. It is important to remember that everyone is uniquely human, even those in the legal field.

The personality traits lawyers share aren’t nearly as important as the ones that make them different. In fact, by recognizing your similarities and differences from the prototypical lawyer, you might better identify the field of law best for you. This guide will explain the five most common lawyer personality types and how they impact lawyers’ practice.

ISTJ Lawyers — The Logistician

Introverted, sensing, thinking, judging

Perhaps it should not be surprising that the personality type claiming the largest percentage of lawyers is ISTJ, considering that much of the world is, too — but with over 17 percent of lawyers falling into this category but only 13 percent of the rest of the world, it is notable that so many in the law profession identify this way.

Above all else, ISTJs are logical, practical dedicated and filled with integrity, which certainly seem to explain the ideal lawyer. ISTJs rarely make assumptions; instead, they research and analyze, forming opinions only after gathering sufficient data. ISTJ lawyers are most content while working, and they will continue working until every task is complete.

If you are an ISTJ, you will fit into any position within the legal field. You shouldn’t worry about finding a path into the type of law most suited to you because you will feel challenged and excited just by being a lawyer.

INTJ Lawyers — The Architect

Introverted, intuitive, thinking, judging

Though INTJ is among the rarest personality types in the larger population, amongst lawyers, it is the second-most common, accounting for over 13 percent of attorneys. Like other lawyerly personalities, INTJs are driven to learn, but INTJs are better equipped to apply their knowledge to far-reaching, complex strategies intended to achieve their goals. INTJs are stubborn, nearly impossible to sway from courses they perceive as rational, but they also believe whole-heartedly in certain causes with an almost contradictory idealism.

As an INTJ lawyer, you make a good lawyer because you can convince yourself of the proper path and follow it unerringly. You might consider enrolling in employment law courses online, to assist you in arguing cases that desperately need attention and dedication, or you could apply for positions in public defense offices.

ESTJ Lawyers — The Executive

Extroverted, sensing, thinking, judging

Slightly fewer lawyers identify as ESTJs, roughly 10 percent, but this category remains the third-largest personality type for attorneys overall. More than ISTJs, ESTJs are concerned with what is right and wrong, and they are devoted to leading communities (or their clients) to the light. Often, ESTJs are traditionalists and exceedingly concerned about order.

ESTJs are another personality type that do well in most areas of law. However, ESTJ lawyers' concern with right and wrong makes them ideal candidates for positions on prosecution teams or higher up in the justice system. You might consider running for district attorney in your area — and later, judge.

ENTP Lawyers — The Debater

Extroverted, intuitive, thinking, perceiving

With a moniker like “the debater,” ENTPs are obviously meant for law careers. Yet, only about 9 percent of lawyers identify as ENTP. This might be because ENTPs are more interested in improvised verbal and mental sparring as opposed to the diligent, strategic argument-crafting performed by most lawyers. ENTPs find debate fun; they have no deeper drive to reveal truth or build integrity.

ENTP lawyers are uniquely equipped to function as litigators. In trials, attorneys must think on their feet, often reacting quickly to defend their clients. This is the ideal environment for ENTPs, and you should pursue the field of litigation if you identify as this personality type.

INTP Lawyers — The Logician

Introverted, intuitive, thinking, perceiving

Another relatively rare personality type that is relatively common in law, INTPs make up about 9 percent of lawyers. INTPs are marked by their creativity, their intellect and their desire to be great. INTPs are excellent at identifying inconsistencies and developing creative solutions. What they lack in emotional response, they make up for in their ability to manipulate data and apply efficient solutions.

INTP lawyers function well in many areas of law. You might find enjoyment in research, jury selection and other tasks that require diligence and data analysis. However, you should certainly steer clear of emotion-heavy professional paths, including those in feeling fields like family, civil rights or immigration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most common personality type for lawyers?

A: The most common personality type for lawyers is ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) which accounts for over 17% of lawyers. ISTJs tend to be logical, practical, dedicated, and filled with integrity.

Q: Which personality type makes the best litigators?

A: ENTP (Extroverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) lawyers, also known as "the debaters," make great litigators. Their ability to think on their feet and passion for verbal sparring suits the fast-paced environment of the courtroom.

Q: Should my personality type dictate my field of law?

A: While some personality types align better with certain legal careers, you shouldn't let it be the only factor. Consider your interests, skills, and values along with your personality type when choosing a legal field. For example, an empathetic INTJ may still thrive in family law despite stereotypes.

Q: What fields of law suit analytical personality types?

A: Highly analytical types like INTJs and INTPs thrive in complex legal areas requiring research, data analysis, and creative problem solving. Some examples are patent law, antitrust law, and tax law.

Q: How can I determine my personality type?

A: You can take a personality assessment like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) online to get your 4-letter personality type code based on your preferences. Understanding your type can provide valuable career insights. However, remember that personality is complex, and the assessment gives a simplified summary.

Q: Do I have to have one of the 5 common lawyer personality types to be a successful attorney?

A: No. While certain types are more drawn to the legal field, you don't have to fit the mold to thrive as a lawyer. Play to your natural strengths and find the right legal niche, rather than trying to change your personality. The diversity of personalities contributes to better problem solving and innovation in law.

Conclusion:

Lawyers come in all shapes and sizes — and all personalities, too. However, the above-listed lawyer personality types, ISTJ lawyers, INTJ lawyers, ESTJ lawyers, ENTP lawyers and INTP lawyers, are most popular in the legal field, and knowing what drives you and how you react in certain situations might push you toward specific careers in law. You can take the personality test online here and find your legal path today.

More Resource: check out our attorney directory and other legal guides.