Kara Sears
Family law attorneys handle legal matters relating to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. To become a family law attorney, you must first obtain a bachelor's degree, attend law school, and pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the bar exam. You will also need strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills to navigate the sensitive and emotional nature of family law cases.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Education | Obtain a bachelor's degree, attend law school, pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the bar exam to earn licensure |
| Skills | Strong communication, analytical thinking, empathy, negotiation, organization, research, stress management, time management |
| Experience | Accumulate continuing education credits, obtain advanced degrees such as a master of laws, find a mentor, volunteer or intern at a family law firm |
| Salary | $72,000 to $200,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, skill level, education, and years of experience |
What You'll Learn
Get a bachelor's degree
Aspiring family lawyers need to earn a bachelor's degree before applying to law school. While there are no specific requirements for a major, some degrees will set you up for success in this field. These include:
- Government
- Sociology
- Psychology
- History
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- English
These degrees can help develop the essential skills and knowledge needed for a career in family law. For example, degrees like English and communication studies can help improve writing and public speaking skills, which are crucial for any legal career. On the other hand, degrees like psychology and sociology can help develop a deeper understanding of human behaviour and dynamics, which are particularly useful when dealing with family relationships and sensitive issues.
It is also important to note that while the choice of major is flexible, maintaining a high grade point average (GPA) of above 3.5 is crucial for getting into a good law school. Therefore, it is essential to choose a major that you are passionate about and that you will enjoy studying to help achieve this GPA.
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Pass the LSAT
Passing the LSAT is a crucial step in becoming a family law attorney. Here are some detailed tips to help you prepare for and pass the exam:
Understand the LSAT Format and Requirements
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test that evaluates your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension skills. It consists of multiple-choice sections and an unscored writing sample. The test is designed to assess your ability to succeed in law school, rather than testing your prior knowledge. Therefore, focus on developing your critical thinking and analysis skills, as well as strengthening your command of the English language.
Familiarize Yourself with the Test Structure
The LSAT consists of three main sections: analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension. The logical reasoning section makes up half of your LSAT score, so allocate extra preparation time to this part. Additionally, there is an unscored writing sample that will be sent to law schools, so ensure you prepare for this section as well, as it can impact the impression you give to the admissions team.
Develop a Study Plan
Creating a structured study schedule is essential for your LSAT preparation. Plan to study for at least four to six hours every day, and give yourself at least six months to prepare for the exam. You can also consider joining an LSAT study group or finding a study partner to help keep you motivated and accountable.
Utilize Practice Exams and Study Resources
Take advantage of the many practice exams and resources available. Start with the free practice exams offered by LSAC and Khan Academy. These will help you establish a baseline score and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, consider investing in prep books, guided self-study courses, and LSAT preparation courses offered by various companies. These resources can provide you with structured study plans, exercises, and analytics to assess your progress.
Focus on Your Weak Areas
While you may find certain sections easier than others, don't neglect the areas that challenge you. For example, the logic games section often gives test-takers the most trouble. By allocating extra time and effort to your weak areas, you can ensure you are equally prepared for all parts of the exam.
Practice Time Management
The LSAT is a timed exam, so it's crucial to manage your time effectively. Practice answering questions within the given time limits, and work on improving your speed and accuracy. The more you practice, the more familiar you will become with the test format and the types of questions asked.
Consider Seeking Additional Help
If you feel you need more personalized guidance, consider hiring a tutor or enrolling in an LSAT preparation course. These options can provide you with structured support and additional resources to improve your performance.
Remember, passing the LSAT is an important step towards your goal of becoming a family law attorney. Give yourself ample time to prepare, practice diligently, and don't be afraid to seek help if needed.
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Attend law school
After obtaining a bachelor's degree, the next step to becoming a family lawyer is to attend law school. Law school typically takes two to three years to complete. It is important to choose a law school that is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). During your time in law school, you will work towards earning your Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
In your first year of law school, you will be introduced to various areas of law. This will provide you with a general overview of the legal field. In your second and third years, you will have the opportunity to choose advanced-level courses that align with your specific interests. This is when you can start focusing on courses related to family law, such as adoption, custody, child welfare, divorce, and marriage.
While there may not be a specific family law degree, there are elective subjects during the final year of study that pertain to family law. These courses will provide you with specialised knowledge and skills in family law. You can also gain practical experience by applying for internships or clerkships during law school.
Additionally, it is advisable to start building your professional network while attending law school. Connecting with other lawyers and legal professionals can be beneficial for your future career. Mentorship opportunities can also provide valuable guidance and insights into the field of family law.
After completing law school and earning your JD degree, you will be well-prepared to take the next step towards becoming a licensed family lawyer.
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Pass the bar exam
Passing the bar exam is the penultimate step to becoming a licensed family law attorney. This exam is administered by the state and is required for anyone who intends to practice law. The exam typically takes place over the course of a few days and consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. To prepare for the exam, you will need to dedicate a lot of time and effort. It is a necessary qualification for becoming a successful family law attorney and dealing with family law cases.
The bar exam is designed to test your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply it in practical situations. It will cover a range of legal topics, including family law, constitutional law, property law, and more. You will need to demonstrate your understanding of legal concepts, analytical skills, and critical thinking abilities. Therefore, it is important to prepare thoroughly for the exam. This may include taking practice tests, reviewing study guides, and seeking additional resources to strengthen your knowledge in any areas of weakness.
In addition to preparing for the exam content, it is also crucial to manage your time effectively during the exam. The bar exam is known for being rigorous and demanding, so staying focused and organised throughout the testing period is essential. This may involve practising with simulated exams, developing test-taking strategies, and ensuring you are well-rested and prepared on the exam days.
Once you have passed the bar exam, you will need to submit your results to the state. This will finalise the process of obtaining your license to practice law. However, it is important to note that maintaining your license may require ongoing continuing legal education credits, depending on your state's requirements.
Passing the bar exam is a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a family law attorney. It requires dedication, hard work, and a comprehensive understanding of the law. By successfully completing this exam, you will be one step closer to embarking on your career as a licensed legal professional in the field of family law.
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Get continuing education credits
Even after passing the bar exam, you will need to continue your education to maintain your license to practice law. You can do this by earning continuing education credits.
Continuing education credits can be earned in a variety of ways. One way is to attend conferences, seminars, or lectures. These events can provide valuable information and insights that can help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in family law. They also offer opportunities to network and connect with other professionals in the field.
Another way to earn credits is by completing courses, which can be done in-person or online. These courses allow you to delve deeper into specific aspects of family law, enhancing your knowledge and expertise. They may cover a range of topics, from mediation and conflict resolution to the latest legal advancements and changes in family law.
It is important to note that the requirements for continuing education credits vary from state to state. Therefore, it is essential to check with your state bar association or regulatory body to understand the specific requirements needed to maintain your license.
By actively pursuing continuing education, you not only ensure your license remains valid, but you also demonstrate your commitment to professional development and staying abreast of the latest advancements in your field. This can enhance your credibility and expertise as a family law attorney.
Additionally, if you are interested in further expanding your knowledge, you might consider pursuing a Master of Law (LLM) degree. While not mandatory, an LLM degree can make you a more competitive candidate in the job market, opening doors to more career opportunities and professional growth.
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Frequently asked questions
The path to becoming a family law attorney typically includes obtaining a bachelor's degree, attending law school, and passing the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the bar exam to earn licensure.
Family law attorneys need a variety of skills, including strong communication, analytical thinking, empathy, negotiation, and organization skills. They must also be able to handle sensitive and emotional legal situations.
Family law attorneys handle cases related to family and domestic affairs, such as divorce, child custody, adoption, prenuptial agreements, and domestic disputes. They represent their clients in legal proceedings, provide legal counsel, and negotiate agreements.
The salary for family law attorneys can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of family law practiced. In the United States, the average salary is around $100,000 per year, but it can range from $40,000 to $200,000.
