Applying For Law: A Guide To Success

Applying to law school can be a challenging and complex process. It requires careful planning and preparation. Here are the key steps to help you get started on your journey towards becoming a lawyer:

- Complete your bachelor's degree: Ensure you have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While there is no specific major requirement, choosing challenging majors that develop your analytical and reasoning skills is beneficial. Maintain a high grade point average as law schools often favour strong academic achievements.

- Register and prepare for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT): The LSAT is a standardised test that assesses reading comprehension, writing skills, and analytical reasoning. It is a crucial factor in determining your admission to law school, so it is recommended to start preparing for it early.

- Choose your law schools: Research and select the law schools that align with your career goals, interests, and qualifications. Consider factors such as location, cost of living, and the school's reputation.

- Gather recommendations and transcripts: Obtain at least two letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can speak to your academic achievements and character. Additionally, request official transcripts from your undergraduate and graduate programmes to demonstrate your academic performance.

- Craft a compelling personal statement: This is your opportunity to showcase your background, motivations, experiences, and goals. Highlight why you are a good fit for the law school and demonstrate your writing skills.

- Submit your application: Fill out the application form, carefully reviewing the requirements and deadlines for each school. Don't forget to pay the application fee, if applicable.

- Prepare for interviews: If the law school invites you for an interview, prepare thoroughly. Be ready to discuss your application, motivations, and why you are a strong candidate for their programme.

Choosing a law school

• Location: Consider whether you want to study in a different city or state, or stay closer to home. The location of the law school will also impact your living costs and transportation arrangements.
• Cost of Attendance: Law school can be expensive, so it's important to consider the tuition fees and your budget. Look into scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work opportunities that can help offset the cost of attendance.
• Prestige and Reputation: Research the reputation and ranking of the law schools you're considering. While prestige is not the only factor, it can impact your career prospects and the perception of your degree among employers.
• Area of Specialization: If you have a particular area of law that interests you, look for law schools that offer strong programs or concentrations in that field. This can include specific courses, clinics, or faculty members with expertise in that area.
• Admissions Statistics: Evaluate your chances of getting into your desired law schools by considering their acceptance rates, average GPA, and average LSAT scores. Aim for a balanced list that includes safety, target, and reach schools.
• Curriculum and Academic Offerings: Review the curriculum and course offerings at each law school. Look for schools that offer a diverse range of courses and practical opportunities, such as internships or clinical programs, that align with your interests and career goals.
• Faculty and Student Body: Consider the faculty-to-student ratio and the expertise of the professors. Look into the research interests and publications of the faculty members. Additionally, consider the diversity and size of the student body and the support services available to students.
• Extracurricular Activities and Networking Opportunities: Law school is not just about academics. Consider the extracurricular activities, student organizations, and networking events offered by the law schools. These can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and building professional connections.
• Bar Exam Passage Rate: Research the bar exam passage rate of the law schools' graduates. This can give you an indication of how well the school prepares its students for the bar exam, which is a crucial step in becoming a licensed attorney.

Remember to start your research early and utilize resources such as the Law School Admission Council's (LSAC) Official Guide and law school rankings to make an informed decision. Attend law school forums, visit campuses, and speak with current students and alumni to gain firsthand insights into the different law schools you're considering.

LSAT registration and preparation

The LSAT, or Law School Admission Test, is an integral part of the law school admissions process. It is a standardised test that serves as a predictor of first-year law school performance and helps prospective law students determine if law school is right for them. The test is offered nine times each year at many testing centres across the United States.

Registration

To register for the LSAT, you must create an LSAC account online and indicate your preferred test date and location. The deadline to register is generally 5-6 weeks before the test date, but registration opens long before that. The basic fee to take the LSAT is $238, and you will also need to pay $45 for each law school report.

In addition to registering for the LSAT, you should also register for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which is an LSAC service that includes transcript summarisation, creation of law school reports, letter of recommendation processing, and electronic law school application processing. Most law schools require applicants to apply through CAS.

Preparation

The LSAT tests skills such as reading comprehension, reasoning, and writing, and is designed to test ability rather than knowledge. As such, practice is essential for success. Familiarise yourself with the different types of LSAT questions, and take advantage of the free Official LSAT PrepTests available in your LawHub account. You can also upgrade your account to access LawHub Advantage, which includes a library of full, official LSAT sample tests.

It is recommended that you spend several months preparing for the LSAT, taking practice tests, and focusing on your weak areas. Consider developing a study plan that suits your learning style and time management skills. Many students also find it helpful to join or create an LSAT study group.

Finally, remember that the LSAT is just one part of the law school admissions process, and a good score will depend on the requirements of your school of choice.

Letters of recommendation

• Build personal relationships with professors and supervisors: This is key to receiving good letters of recommendation. Attend office hours, ask questions in class, get involved in research, and share your interests with them. By making genuine connections, your professors and supervisors will be happy to write passionate and personalized letters on your behalf.
• Provide clear instructions: When requesting a letter of recommendation, be sure to give the writer clear instructions and offer to suggest ideas for the letter. However, do not write the letter yourself.
• Give them enough time: Allow your recommenders at least a couple of weeks, or even a month, to submit their letters.
• Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic potential: Law schools are interested in your potential as a law student, so it's important to choose recommenders who can speak to your ability to handle rigorous, advanced academic work. This includes your ability to read and understand complex textual material, analyze information critically, and present reasoned conclusions in writing and verbally.
• Consider a mix of academic and professional recommenders: While academic letters of recommendation are valuable, don't be afraid to include a letter from an employer or supervisor who can speak to your work ethic and professional skills. This is especially relevant if you've been out of school for a while and have difficulty securing multiple academic references.

Application and supporting documents

There are several routes to studying law, including undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as apprenticeships. The application process and supporting documents required vary depending on the route and institution.

Undergraduate Applications

Undergraduate applications for law degrees in the UK are often made through UCAS. Entry requirements differ between universities and courses, but offers are typically based on predicted or achieved A-level grades or equivalent qualifications. Some universities may also require applicants to sit an entrance exam or attend an interview. It is also common for applicants to be asked to write a personal statement outlining their interest in the course and any relevant experience or skills.

Postgraduate Applications

Postgraduate law courses, such as the PGDL (Law Conversion Course), LLM, and MA Law, can be applied for through the Central Applications Board (CAB). The PGDL is a common route for students with a non-law degree who wish to pursue a career in law. The application process typically involves submitting an online or email application, including transcripts, references, and a personal statement. Some institutions may also require an application fee.

Law School Applications

For law school applications in the US, the process typically involves creating an online account with LSAC (Law School Admission Council) and registering for the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). The LSAT is a standardised test required by most law schools and should be taken by November/December for admission the following fall. The LSAC account helps track applications and deadlines for different schools. Additionally, applicants may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

Apprenticeships

Law apprenticeships are another route to becoming a lawyer, combining work and study. Apprenticeship applications are made directly to employers and do not follow specific deadlines. Applicants can apply to multiple apprenticeship vacancies and are assessed based on their skills, experience, and potential rather than traditional academic qualifications.

Interviews

Do Your Research

Lawyers are known for their research skills, so it's important to demonstrate your capabilities in this area during the interview process. Before your interview, make sure you know who you will be speaking with and research their background. Use platforms like LinkedIn to find out more about your interviewer's accomplishments, awards, and accolades. Knowing these details will show that you are genuinely interested in getting to know them and give you an opportunity to highlight your research skills.

In addition to knowing your interviewer, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of the firm or school you are applying to. Learn about their history, founding story, partners, culture, and recent court rulings. Understand the role you are applying for and how it aligns with your career goals. This knowledge will help you craft a narrative about your career aspirations and demonstrate why the firm or school is a good fit for you.

Prepare for Common Questions

Interviewers will likely ask you a range of questions to assess your personality, confidence, and suitability for the legal field. These may include personal questions about your strengths, weaknesses, interests outside of school or work, and your reason for choosing law. Be prepared to discuss your resume or undergraduate experience in detail and explain how these experiences make you a qualified applicant.

You may also be asked questions that test your legal reasoning and thinking skills. These questions are designed to assess your ability to respond to queries in real-time, an essential skill for successful lawyers. Stay updated on current events and think of ways to relate them to legal studies or practice.

Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions, and practice answering them aloud or with a friend. This will help you feel more confident and polished during the actual interview.

Dress Professionally

First impressions are important, so make sure your appearance is polished and professional. While law fashion has become more relaxed over the years, it's still essential to dress appropriately for your interview. This demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and your ability to present yourself in a professional manner.

Ask Intelligent Questions

As a lawyer, you should be naturally curious and thorough. Prepare a list of well-thought-out and intelligent questions to ask during your interview. Avoid questions related to personal benefits, such as money, vacation time, or billable hours. Instead, focus on the big picture and ask about the firm's successes, future direction, and how you can contribute to their growth.

Asking thoughtful questions shows your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation, and it gives you an opportunity to showcase your knowledge of the firm or school. It also demonstrates your interest in learning more and your engagement with the interview process.

Be Personable and Enthusiastic

Building relationships is an essential aspect of being a good lawyer. Show your enthusiasm for meeting the interviewers and engage fully in the conversation. Be polite and courteous to everyone you interact with, including support staff and non-attorney staff. Being personable and respectful leaves a positive impression and demonstrates your ability to build trust and rapport, which are crucial skills for lawyers.

Be Genuine

Always be honest during your interview. Avoid telling lies, even small ones, as this can quickly ruin your chances of making a good impression. If you are invited for a casual lunch or virtual interview, maintain your professionalism and remember that these interactions are often used to assess how you behave in a more relaxed setting.

Follow Up

After your interview, remember to thank the interviewer for their time. Send a handwritten letter or email within the next day to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the role or programme. This is also an opportunity to provide any additional information they may request or clarify any points you feel need further explanation.

By following these tips, you can confidently showcase your qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm during your law interview. Remember that preparation is key, and the more you prepare, the more comfortable and confident you will feel during the actual interview.

Frequently asked questions