Don't Be a Lawyer

The song 'Don't Be a Lawyer' from the TV show 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' offers a humorous yet brutally honest critique of pursuing a career in law. The protagonist starts as a bright, ambitious young adult who, like many, is unsure of their career path. They decide to take the LSAT and get accepted into law school, believing it to be a 'safe bet' for a prestigious and lucrative career. However, the song quickly shifts to a cautionary tale, warning against the pitfalls of becoming a lawyer.

The lyrics emphasize the soul-crushing aspects of the legal profession, from the overwhelming debt incurred from law school to the daily grind of unfulfilling work. The song humorously points out that no one dreams of spending their life working on mundane tasks like pharmaceutical mergers. It also highlights the disillusionment that comes with the job, noting that lawyers often speak in 'legalese' and run up fees, which can make them appear unlikable. The song even goes as far as to say that being a lawyer is a 'guaranteed soul destroyer,' urging listeners to consider other career options.

The song also tackles the unrealistic expectations and societal pressures that come with the profession. It humorously debunks the glamorized image of lawyers portrayed in media, like the character Ally McBeal, and points out that most legal careers don't lead to prestigious positions like the Supreme Court. The song concludes with a satirical disclaimer, adding a layer of meta-humor by acknowledging that its harsh critique doesn't reflect the views of the networks airing the show. Overall, 'Don't Be a Lawyer' serves as a comedic yet poignant commentary on the often harsh realities of the legal profession.