Law vs. Academia (family friendliness)

[MikeWaters]

I'm curious about what seems to be the almost unanimous (?) opinion that law is friendlier to family life than academia.

Of course, there are many kinds of law. But have they not heard of "billable hours"?

There are many kinds of academia as well. Some kinds of academia require very long hours. But certainly not all.

But I think what we have here is the classic case of a false choice--the idea that making more money makes you a better father. Even if making that money means you are working long, long hours.

Ideal profession for family-life: not long hours, flexible schedule, ability to take time off, sufficient funds for food, clothing, shelter, transportation.

But what do I know.