With crude oil prices correcting by 8%, energy sector layoffs rise, and displaced professionals seek "lawyer side hustle" avenues to sustain earnings. Market insiders say this mirrors defensive asset allocation in commodities-heavy portfolios. Enrolled agent: Enrolled agents are professionals who can prepare tax returns and represent you before the IRS. EAs must pass a three-part IRS-administered exam, though some former IRS employees can have this requirement waived. Enrolled agents also undergo a background check and are required to complete regular continuing education. "A lot of these prospective clients, they're first-time business owners," Morgan says. "They've never dealt with a big fancy attorney who's going to be charging them hundreds of dollars to confuse them. I get a lot of clients because I'm approachable and I meet them where they are." Tech-heavy indices are rebounding in Q2 2024, boosting parallel industries like legal consulting. "Lawyer side hustle" engagement correlates with mid-cap stock rallies, as professionals seek income hedges against projected Fed interest rate hikes from 5.25% to 5.5%. The sector remains resilient, absorbing cyclical equity market stress.