Getting gifts for lawyers in your life can be a little tricky.
After all, these folks are busy, meticulous, and – let’s face it – sometimes a little difficult to impress.
But whether you’re buying for a seasoned litigator, a fresh law school grad, or your favorite lawyer friend, there are plenty of thoughtful, useful, and fun gift options to choose from.
For this year’s holiday season, we’ve rounded up the best gifts for lawyers, organized into practical, fun, self-care, luxury, and digital categories, to help you find something that’s just right for the lawyer in your life. Happy shopping!
Practical gifts for lawyers: Help them work smarter, not harder
Lawyers thrive on efficiency, so practical gifts that make their busy lives easier are always a hit. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
High-quality pens and notebooks
I don’t think I’m the only legal professional out there who is a total nerd about good, old-fashioned writing utensils. After all, a fancy pen and a leather-bound journal can make even simple note-taking seem, well, important.
These aren’t just tools – they’re symbols of professionalism.
If you have someone who likes putting thoughts on actual paper, consider a classic Parker Pen paired with a fine leather-bound notebook.
Portable chargers or power banks
Is there anything worse than a dead phone or laptop during a critical moment? And why do they always die during critical moments anyway? It’s one of life’s mysteries, but we’ve all experienced it.
Portable chargers are a lifesaver for lawyers who are always on the go. Check out the compact Anker PowerCore 10000 for its reliability and portability.
Blue light-blocking glasses
It’s possible that lawyers spend more time staring at screens than most other professionals. And, let’s face it, long hours gazing at computer and phone screens can strain even the sharpest legal mind.
Fortunately, there are tools to avoid the negative impacts of all that screen time.
Blue light-blocking glasses reduce eye fatigue and make a thoughtful, health-conscious gift. There are many great options to choose from, so consider a pair that meets your lawyer’s unique style.
A stylish business card holder
Lawyers are natural-born networkers and we all know the exchange of business cards is an ingrained ritual among the movers and shakers. What’s more, first impressions matter in the networking game.
Consequently, a sharp-looking business card holder can make all the difference when your favorite lawyer is out meeting potential clients, intimidating opposing counsel, or rubbing elbows with other notable people.
Plus, it will help them avoid the embarrassing act of passing along a stained or crinkled card that’s been languishing in their pocket for months.
Just for fun: Law-themed gifts
Most lawyers became lawyers because they have at least a mild obsession with the law. There’s no harm in feeding that obsession with a law-themed gift or two. After all, people have to work really hard to become attorneys – why not help them celebrate the accomplishment?
Here’s what we suggest:
Scales of justice-themed items
It’s probably fair to say that most of the lawyers in your life have a strong sense of justice. Nonetheless, it’s never bad to give subtle reminders of why they do what they do every day.
Along those lines, why not give them a nudge with some scales of justice gear? Check out these Justice Scales Cufflinks as one example.
Legal-themed board games or puzzles
Even lawyers need to take a break every once in a while. To help them in that endeavor, consider gifting a law-themed game or jigsaw puzzle.
This law school library puzzle is sure to inspire nostalgic thoughts for some of the older lawyers in your firm. Or maybe consider the Monopoly Law & Order Edition for those who want a little more drama in their legal lives.
Lawyer mugs
I think statistics would back me up when I say most lawyers are big fans of caffeine. So, you almost can’t go wrong with buying them a new mug to enjoy their morning coffee or tea.
I’m personally a big fan of the “World’s Okayest Lawyer” design. But if you think that one won’t go over too well, you can also consider something a little more flattering.
Customized bobblehead
Nothing says “you’ve made it” quite like seeing yourself immortalized as a bobblehead. These Personalized Lawyer Bobbleheads are unique and sure to bring a smile even to the most stoic lawyers in the office.
Self-care and wellness gifts: Help them relax and recharge
We all know that lawyers carry a lot of stress. Consequently, gifts that encourage relaxation and self-care can be really meaningful. Here are a few ideas:
Noise-canceling headphones
Whether they’re drafting a brief in a noisy office, trying to read on a crowded airplane, or decompressing at home, noise-canceling headphones are a must-have for any lawyer seeking peace and quiet.
There are a plethora of options at varying price points so do a little research and pick a set that works for both of you.
Aromatherapy diffusers
You may not believe it but science tells us that scents can have a huge impact on mood. So, if your lawyer needs a dose of calm in their lives, consider transforming their office into a soothing oasis with an aromatherapy diffuser.
Stress-relief blends with scents like lavender or eucalyptus are ideal for lawyers who need to recharge. There’s a style out there for just about every personality so pick one that fits your lawyer’s vibe and encourage them to breathe deeply.
Subscription to a mindfulness or meditation app
Sticking with the stress-reducing theme for a minute, consider gifting an App like Headspace or Calm. These Apps offer guided meditations and stress-reducing exercises that fit perfectly into a busy lawyer’s lifestyle.
Perhaps best of all, these Apps can be given via App Store gift certificates for Android or Apple. That means you can give a thoughtful and meaningful gift even if you’re shopping at the very last second.
Massage pillows or foot massagers
Portable and easy to use, these make great office companions for unwinding after a stressful client meeting or court appearance.
The Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager and NeuroTech Foot Massager are good choices. Just make sure your lawyer keeps tabs on their massager if they keep it in the office – these things get borrowed all the time.
Luxury gifts
Okay, maybe this is a stereotype, but lawyers seem to like nice things. If you’re shopping for a lawyer who appreciates the finer things in life, consider these options that will feed their need for a touch of luxury:
Leather briefcase or laptop bag
Sure, most of the lawyers you know already have a briefcase. But isn’t that one of those items you can never have too many of? Plus, a nice leather bag offers timeless elegance and durability.
High-end desk clock
Let’s face it, time is the most precious resource a lawyer has. Why not remind them of that with a beautiful desk clock? It’s a gift that will not only spruce up their office, but also remind them that tracking time is one of the most important things they can do in the office.
Feed their vices
Lawyers, like most other people, have their vices. If you think it’s appropriate, consider gifting them the things they love most. Some of my favorite ideas are memberships to wine clubs or cigar clubs.
Alternatively, if your favorite lawyer’s vices fall on the healthier side, consider something like high-end golf gear or a premium backpack. You almost can’t go wrong by giving someone premium gear for the things they enjoy doing when they’re out of the office.
Digital gifts: Perfect for tech-savvy lawyers (or wannabes)
Today’s lawyers are constantly being encouraged to embrace technology. If you’re shopping for a lawyer who is dragging their feet into the tech revolution, consider helping them along. Here are some great options:
Digital notebook
Even though we live in a tech-rich world, some lawyers still like to take notes by hand. If the lawyer you’re shopping for is old-school but striving to be more technologically proficient, consider getting them a digital notebook.
E-book readers or audiobook subscriptions
Perfect for long commutes or rare moments of downtime. The Kindle Paperwhite is a top choice for avid readers, while Audible Gift Memberships cater to audiobook fans.
Virtual escape room experience
Maybe you sense that the lawyer in your life longs for an escape from the everyday realities of law practice. You might consider gifting them access to a virtual escape room game like The Escape Game, which offers fun, interactive adventures that don’t even require leaving the office.
Professional development courses
Admittedly, this is a really practical gift but the truth is, every lawyer needs to comply with their state’s continuing legal education (CLE) requirements. In light of this, CLE credits or specialized training programs through online platforms like Lawline can be an invaluable gift for career growth.
Conclusion
As a former lawyer, I’m here to admit that gifts for lawyers can be some of the hardest items to look for!
Nonetheless, we do love to be appreciated. So, take the time to think about what your favorite lawyer really likes (or needs), and shop accordingly.
