Pursuing A Law Degree: Steps To Success

Getting a law degree is a rigorous process that requires dedication and hard work. In the United States, the traditional path to becoming a lawyer involves several steps, including earning a bachelor's degree, taking the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), attending law school, and passing the bar exam. Law school typically lasts three years for full-time students and covers a broad range of legal subjects, with most schools requiring full-time attendance. While law schools take a holistic approach when reviewing candidates, factors like LSAT scores, college grades (GPA), and personal statements are crucial in gaining admission to competitive law programs. After graduating from law school, individuals can pursue careers as lawyers or in law-adjacent fields, such as business, human resources, or law enforcement.

Get a bachelor's degree

To get into law school, you will need to have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Law schools are not overly concerned about your major, but rather your college grades (GPA) and your score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).

When choosing your major, pick a subject that interests you and allows you to develop skills like critical thinking and logical argumentation—these will be important for both the LSAT and law school itself. Some majors that people choose because they can provide a good foundation for law school include English, political science, communication, history, philosophy, criminal justice, and economics.

During your undergraduate career, focus on earning the highest GPA possible. Get involved with extracurricular activities like a speech and debate team, a mock trial team, or drama, as these can help you develop public speaking and persuasive argumentation skills. You should also start researching internships, either within or outside of the legal field, and begin making connections with your professors so that they can write you strong letters of recommendation.

After you pass the LSAT, you can apply to law schools. First, search for American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law schools, as this accreditation is required in some states, like New York. Then, apply for an account with the Law School Admissions Council, another requirement for ABA-accredited programs.

Pass the LSAT

Passing the LSAT is a crucial step in getting a law degree. The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is the traditional law school entrance exam, and most prospective law students take it to qualify for law school. Here are some tips to help you pass the LSAT:

Understand the LSAT Format and Questions

The LSAT is a standardized test that assesses your ability rather than your knowledge. The questions are designed to test your logical reasoning skills and critical thinking abilities. Familiarize yourself with the different types of questions on the LSAT, such as Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, and Argumentative Writing. LSAC.org is a great resource to learn more about the test and review sample questions.

Create a Study Plan

Develop a structured study plan that works for you. Reflect on your learning style and create a preparation strategy that suits your needs. Consider factors such as time management, the format you prefer (reading, writing, or a combination), and your baseline score. Set realistic improvement goals and aim to gradually increase your target score.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to success on the LSAT is practice. Take advantage of free practice exams and timed tests offered by LSAC and Khan Academy. The more practice exams you complete, the more familiar you will become with the question types. Review your completed exams thoroughly, analyzing both your correct and incorrect answers to understand the underlying reasoning.

Seek Additional Resources

Utilize preparation books, commercial vendors, and online forums like the Reddit LSAT Forum for additional support. Consider finding a study partner or tutor to help you stay motivated and accountable. Remember that consistent practice and a disciplined approach are essential for improving your LSAT score.

Manage Stress

Test-day stress can negatively impact your performance. Develop a test day regimen focused on minimizing stress. Get a good night's sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and relax in the days leading up to the exam. Arrive at the test center early, and engage in activities or rituals that comfort you and calm your nerves.

Choose a law school

Choosing a law school is a highly subjective matter and depends on a variety of factors. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Academic Factors

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is the traditional law school entrance exam, and a good score can increase your chances of getting into a prestigious law school. Some law schools also accept the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test scores. Your college GPA, in combination with your LSAT score, can be a significant factor in gaining admission to competitive law schools.

School Factors

The reputation and ranking of a law school can be important considerations. "Top 14" schools, for example, are often considered worth attending due to their name recognition, connections, and resources. However, it's not the only factor, as some high-level practitioners have graduated from lower-ranked law schools. The school's location is also crucial, as some states have a well-connected legal community that can benefit your career prospects. Consider the size of the school, the composition and diversity of the student body, and the nature of the surrounding community. You may also want to research the faculty members' backgrounds and areas of expertise.

Personal Factors

Consider your own needs and preferences when selecting a law school. For example, financial considerations and scholarship opportunities may play a significant role in your decision-making process. You may also have family or job obligations that require you to stay in a particular geographic area. Additionally, think about the type of environment in which you will thrive academically and personally.

Career Goals

It is essential to align your law school choice with your career aspirations. Consider attending a law school with a strong track record of preparing students for the type of legal job you desire. You may also want to choose a school that offers a specific program of study that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Accreditation

Ensure that your chosen law school is accredited, especially if you plan to practice in a specific state or region. Accreditation ensures that your degree will be recognized and valued by potential employers and the legal community.

Additional Resources

The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) provides valuable resources and tools to help you evaluate law schools and find the best fit for you. They offer free Law School Forums, where you can meet representatives from various law schools, and the Law School Wizard report, which generates a customized list of law schools based on your interests and preferences.

Pass the bar exam

Passing the bar exam is a crucial step in becoming a lawyer. While the specifics of the exam will depend on the jurisdiction, there are some general strategies that can help you pass. Firstly, it is essential to start preparing for the bar exam from day one of law school. The knowledge and skills acquired during your legal education will form the foundation for your exam preparation. Seek out a trusted bar prep program that offers comprehensive lectures and ample practice questions. Themis is one example of a program that has been recommended by previous test-takers.

In addition to a solid understanding of the material, familiarizing yourself with the exam format and practicing under test conditions are key. This includes timing yourself, attempting full practice sets, and writing out essays rather than just outlining them. Closed-book practice is also beneficial, as it reinforces your understanding of the material and helps identify areas that require further review. While it may be tempting to aim for a perfect score, keep in mind that the primary goal is to pass the exam and obtain a score that meets the requirements for your desired jurisdiction.

Supplementing your preparation with additional study materials is generally not necessary. Instead, focus on thoroughly completing a single comprehensive course. However, if you find it helpful, you can consider enrolling in personalized one-on-one bar exam tutoring or joining online communities and forums dedicated to bar exam preparation. These platforms often provide valuable insights, tips, and support from individuals who have successfully navigated the exam.

Finally, remember that the bar exam is a challenging undertaking, and it is normal to encounter obstacles along the way. Stay persistent and consistent in your preparation, and don't be afraid to seek support when needed. By combining a strong work ethic with effective study strategies, you can greatly increase your chances of passing the bar exam and taking a significant step towards becoming a licensed lawyer.

Obtain a license to practice law

Obtaining a license to practice law is the final step to becoming a lawyer. The requirements to obtain a license vary across different regions and states. For example, in Egypt, applicants must have Egyptian nationality, full civil capacity, no disciplinary findings, and be of good conduct and reputation. In Ethiopia, applicants must pass the Law School Exit Examination to graduate and obtain a license. In Gabon, applicants must complete a one-year internship under the supervision of a licensed lawyer and then petition the President of the Bar Association for a second one-year internship. At the end of the second internship, the candidate may petition the Bar Council to be enrolled as a lawyer.

In the United States, the process of obtaining a license to practice law is governed by the state's courts, legislatures, and/or bar association. While the specific requirements may vary by state, there are some general steps that must be completed. First, an applicant must have graduated from an accredited or certified law school. This typically involves completing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which is a three-year program that provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles and analytical skills. After graduating from law school, applicants must complete a period of practical legal training, which can range from one to two years. During this time, they may be required to plead a minimum number of cases. Following the completion of their training, applicants must pass a state bar examination, which may consist of two parts: the Multistate Bar Examination and a state-specific examination. Once they have passed the bar exam, applicants must obtain recommendations and endorsements from legal professionals, such as the president of the lowest court and members of the local bar association. Finally, upon admission to the bar, attorneys must take an oath declaring their obligations to the court, state, and country, register with the court, and receive their license to practice law.

Frequently asked questions