Dating a lawyer sounds exciting until you realise you’re arguing about who left the tap running or competing with their packed schedules for attention. From corporate powerhouses to law undergraduates, we asked seven Nigerians to share their experiences dating lawyers and let’s say it’s not always suit-and-tie romance.
Bisi*
My ex and current partner are lawyers, and while both are extremely intelligent and passionate, their intelligence can sometimes complicate relationships. My ex treated our relationship like a business. He’d document our discussions and refer back to them during arguments. It got so bad I started watching every word I said because he’d use it against me later. That pressure eventually ended things between us.
My current partner has similar tendencies, but he reminds himself that we’re lovers, not in a courtroom. With him, I don’t feel like I’m constantly being cross-examined, even when we argue.
Ayo*
As a lawyer who’s dated other lawyers, I’ll say some stereotypes about us are exaggerated. That said, lawyers can be insufferable. While not all of us turn every conversation into an argument, many do. Because I’ve mostly dated within the field, this hasn’t been an issue—we both see arguing as playful banter rather than conflict.
But here’s something people don’t talk about: the high-pressure lifestyle. Depending on their area of practice, lawyers tend to be workaholics and often resort to substances to cope. Back in law school, my friends and I experimented heavily, and while we’ve toned it down now, stressful cases can bring it back. Not everyone can handle dating someone with that kind of coping mechanism.
Kunle*
I once dated a corporate lawyer, and let me tell you—that babe was monied. She handled high-profile clients, had access to insane luxury, and always looked stunning in her expensive outfits. Dinner at five-star restaurants and hopping expensive hotels became our norm. She hardly asked me for anything, and it felt like a dream considering Nigeria’s shitty dating pool.
But then she relocated abroad for work last year, and distance ruined things. We tried to make it work, but it wasn’t sustainable. Since then, I’ve been trying to bag another corporate lawyer babe, but I’ve not found my spec.
Joy*
I had a situationship with a lawyer once, and by the time it ended, I understood why it never became something more. Every conversation felt like a debate. He never considered my opinions or alternatives to his views—it was always his way or nothing.
Yes, he was attractive and occasionally swept me off my feet, but his egotism and misogyny were dealbreakers. After a while, I couldn’t stand him. There were good moments, but the bad ones left me with no choice but to walk away.
Evelyn*
It depends on the kind of lawyer, really. My dad’s a lawyer, and his dedication to our family inspired me to date one. My ex wasn’t the problem—our breakup was mutual and not because of his profession. If anything, his legal background gave me peace of mind. He was big on “rights” and fair treatment, and I always felt secure knowing he’d never cheat or manipulate me.
Another thing I loved? He seemed to know everyone. Anytime I had a problem, he’d always have a connection to help. That kind of influence and reliability was one of the best parts of dating him.
Hakeem*
As a law undergraduate, I’ve dated two female law students, and honestly, dating within the faculty is chaotic. We’re all juggling the same intense schedules, but seeing my partner mirror my struggles brought us closer in some ways. One of my exes was so organised she’d schedule our dates on Google Calendar. At first, I frowned at it, but I found myself doing the same.
What stood out most was how easily we slipped into professional mode. Sometimes, we’d sit together in silence, prepping for case studies, and it felt like a work partnership more than a relationship.
Amarachi*
Dating a lawyer has its pros and cons. On the bright side, my partner is a great listener, a thoughtful planner, and amazing with decision-making. His attention to detail means he knows exactly what I like, plans the best dates, and never runs out of topics to discuss. He’s principled, disciplined, well-dressed, and incredibly reliable—if he says he’ll be somewhere in five minutes, he’s there. Plus, being with him comes with unmatched respect everywhere we go.
The downside? He’s often too busy, with little time for holidays or rest, and work can make him distant or unavailable. He’s stubborn and meticulous, always ready to back his arguments with facts, which can be frustrating during disagreements. But he’s honest to a fault and rarely lies.
To date a lawyer, you need patience, understanding, and grace. They’re under constant pressure, often just needing someone to listen rather than offer solutions. If you can be supportive and let them lean on you when needed, they make incredibly loving and dependable partners.
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