Should You Become a CPA Lawyer?

Picture this: You’ve just graduated with your bachelor’s degree and are spending a celebratory dinner with loved ones. A family member leans in and asks, “So, what’s next?”

“I’m going to get my J.D. and earn my Certified Public Accountant license,” you say — and the table falls silent, eyes wide with surprise. Are they impressed? Confused? Doubtful you can actually pull it off?

You’re not alone. Quan Vuong, JD, LL.M., CPA, faced the same reactions on his path to becoming a CPA lawyer. Today, he thrives under pressure, embraces challenges, and navigates complex issues across 2 respected fields. With the help of our CPA review course, Quan sharpened his exam prep and achieved dual licensure — proving that the road to becoming a CPA lawyer is rewarding if paved with passion, determination, and grit.

The Making of a CPA Lawyer

Like any demanding career path, the road to becoming an attorney and CPA has highs and lows — and nobody knows this better than Quan. He never set out to be a dual-licensed professional, but life had other plans, beginning at Bank of America. 

While working at the financial institution during college, Quan was still figuring things out, knowing only that he wanted a business-related degree. The lightbulb finally illuminated when he discovered how much you could learn about a business by looking at its books. His path became clearer: major in accounting at California State University, Fullerton, then move into tax prep. 

Quan accomplished both goals, landing at Grant Thornton LLP and then Haskell & White LLP. He found himself increasingly drawn to tax law's research and strategy side and was eager to learn more. When his managing partner suggested law school, it marked the start of his transition into the legal field.

“Just remember that every video lecture you watch and every practice problem you do is for the greater cause and will help you reach your goal.”

Quan Vuong, JD, LL.M., CPA

Quan made it through the rigors of law school, earning both his JD and LL.M. from Chapman University — but he didn’t stop there. After graduation, he dedicated 8 months to studying for the CPA Exam, all while juggling work and family responsibilities. It took exceptional time management, support from loved ones, and the right CPA test prep to succeed — and he did.

You might be eager to follow in Quan’s footsteps. If so, you’re in good company. Some of the most analytical, organized, adaptable, and personable professionals have walked this path. To stay prepared, you’ll want a clear picture of what to expect.

The Realities of Becoming a Dual-licensed Attorney and CPA

Holding a CPA license and a law degree is more than just a flex at family reunions or on dating apps. It’s a strategic professional move that blends financial savvy with legal acumen. For Quan, it was all about a career in tax research and planning — but everyone’s different. No matter why you’ve chosen to pursue both credentials, you’re stepping onto a demanding path with major payoffs.

The Challenges

• Educational demands: You’ll need to complete 150+ credit hours, attend law school, and pass 2 of the toughest exams: the CPA and bar.
• Burnout risk: Managing 2 high-responsibility careers can lead to long hours, especially during tax season or when trials loom.
• Staying current: As with other fields, law and accounting are constantly evolving. You’ll need to keep up with industry trends and new legislation to avoid falling behind.
• Ethical complexity: Navigating dual professional standards (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, American Bar Association) requires care and integrity.

The Rewards

• Prestige and credibility: You’re among a rare group of professionals who can speak numbers and legalese fluently. That means you’ll be positioned to “climb the ladder” quickly.
• Financial benefits: Many CPA lawyers earn significantly more than their single-credentialed peers.
• Client trust and satisfaction: You become an all-in-one expert for complex financial-legal issues, offering clients solutions from multiple angles.
• Career flexibility: As a CPA lawyer, your unique background allows you to choose where, when, and how you work. More credentials mean more freedom! Plus, you can pivot between law, accounting, finance, and consulting industries without skipping a beat.

Working as an Attorney CPA

Job Responsibilities

Variety and intellectual challenge are major draws of this profession. One day, you’re prepping tax filings and financial statements. The next, you're researching case law or providing expert testimony in court cases. Here are some typical responsibilities you may juggle as a CPA lawyer:

• Consulting: You might advise individuals or businesses on budgeting, financial planning, or risk management.
• Document review and prep: Think tax returns, contracts, wills, trusts, and audit reports.
• Research and strategy: You’ll stay current on new tax laws or financial regulations.
• Court appearances or negotiations: If you work in litigation, you might represent clients in disputes related to audits, taxes, or business conflicts.
• Forensic accounting: You’ll apply your accounting skills from an investigative angle to uncover financial irregularities like fraud or embezzlement.
• Continuing education: To keep both licenses active, ongoing learning is a must. That includes Continuing Legal Education (CLE) and Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

Work Hours and Work-Life Balance