4 answers
Addison
Student
Mississippi City, MS
1
Question
Asked
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How and what do I have to do to get to where I want to be?
I want to be a lawyer and graduate from law school.
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
The first step is to go to college, major in a social science related subject and achieve good grades and graduate with the bachelors degree needed to enter law school.
If you meet this requirement, then you can take the law school admissions exam (LSAT). If your scores are good, you can apply for law school.
If admitted, you would complete three years for the Juris Doctorate, and then graduate. After this you qualify to take the state bar exam, and upon successful completion can be licensed to become a lawyer.
If you meet this requirement, then you can take the law school admissions exam (LSAT). If your scores are good, you can apply for law school.
If admitted, you would complete three years for the Juris Doctorate, and then graduate. After this you qualify to take the state bar exam, and upon successful completion can be licensed to become a lawyer.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Addison
Mike Qiao
28
Answers
Updated
Mike’s Answer
To become a lawyer, follow these enhanced, actionable steps:
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree:
Kickstart your journey by obtaining a bachelor's degree in a discipline that interests you. Whether it's pre-law, political science, criminal justice, or any other field, the choice is yours. Ensure your chosen major meets the prerequisites for law school admission.
2. Ace the Law School Admission Test (LSAT):
The LSAT is a crucial step, evaluating your reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and critical thinking abilities. To secure a spot in a reputable law school, strive for a competitive LSAT score. Regular study and practice tests can help you prepare.
3. Apply to Accredited Law Schools:
Identify and apply to law schools accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or a relevant authority in your country. Your application should include your LSAT scores, undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
4. Finish Law School:
In the US, law school typically spans three years, during which you'll explore various law sectors, such as contracts, torts, criminal law, constitutional law, and more. You can also choose to specialize in a particular law area.
5. Clear the Bar Exam:
Post law school, you must pass the bar exam in your chosen jurisdiction. This exam tests your law knowledge and its application. It usually involves a written test and may include a performance test in some regions.
6. Acquire Practical Experience:
Many jurisdictions mandate a period of practical experience, like a legal apprenticeship or clerkship, before you are fully licensed. This involves working under the guidance of a seasoned attorney or judge.
7. Get Licensed:
After passing the bar exam and fulfilling all jurisdictional requirements, you can apply for admission to the bar. Once admitted, you're legally permitted to practice law in your jurisdiction.
8. Explore Specialization:
Depending on your career aspirations and interests, consider specializing in a specific law area, such as criminal law, family law, environmental law, corporate law, or intellectual property law. This may require additional coursework and certification.
9. Pursue Continuing Legal Education:
To keep your license active and stay informed about legal updates, engage in continuing legal education (CLE). This often involves attending relevant courses and seminars.
10. Develop Your Legal Career:
As a licensed attorney, you can explore various career avenues, including working for a law firm, government agency, nonprofit organization, or as a solo practitioner. You might also consider roles like a judge, legal consultant, or legal educator.
Remember, becoming a lawyer demands dedication, time, and a commitment to studying and practicing law. Research the specific requirements in your jurisdiction, as they can vary. Networking, gaining practical experience through internships or clerkships, and honing your legal research and communication skills are key to thriving in the legal profession.
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree:
Kickstart your journey by obtaining a bachelor's degree in a discipline that interests you. Whether it's pre-law, political science, criminal justice, or any other field, the choice is yours. Ensure your chosen major meets the prerequisites for law school admission.
2. Ace the Law School Admission Test (LSAT):
The LSAT is a crucial step, evaluating your reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and critical thinking abilities. To secure a spot in a reputable law school, strive for a competitive LSAT score. Regular study and practice tests can help you prepare.
3. Apply to Accredited Law Schools:
Identify and apply to law schools accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or a relevant authority in your country. Your application should include your LSAT scores, undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
4. Finish Law School:
In the US, law school typically spans three years, during which you'll explore various law sectors, such as contracts, torts, criminal law, constitutional law, and more. You can also choose to specialize in a particular law area.
5. Clear the Bar Exam:
Post law school, you must pass the bar exam in your chosen jurisdiction. This exam tests your law knowledge and its application. It usually involves a written test and may include a performance test in some regions.
6. Acquire Practical Experience:
Many jurisdictions mandate a period of practical experience, like a legal apprenticeship or clerkship, before you are fully licensed. This involves working under the guidance of a seasoned attorney or judge.
7. Get Licensed:
After passing the bar exam and fulfilling all jurisdictional requirements, you can apply for admission to the bar. Once admitted, you're legally permitted to practice law in your jurisdiction.
8. Explore Specialization:
Depending on your career aspirations and interests, consider specializing in a specific law area, such as criminal law, family law, environmental law, corporate law, or intellectual property law. This may require additional coursework and certification.
9. Pursue Continuing Legal Education:
To keep your license active and stay informed about legal updates, engage in continuing legal education (CLE). This often involves attending relevant courses and seminars.
10. Develop Your Legal Career:
As a licensed attorney, you can explore various career avenues, including working for a law firm, government agency, nonprofit organization, or as a solo practitioner. You might also consider roles like a judge, legal consultant, or legal educator.
Remember, becoming a lawyer demands dedication, time, and a commitment to studying and practicing law. Research the specific requirements in your jurisdiction, as they can vary. Networking, gaining practical experience through internships or clerkships, and honing your legal research and communication skills are key to thriving in the legal profession.
Mackenzie Ward
associate
103
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Mackenzie’s Answer
Becoming a lawyer typically involves several steps, including education, training, and licensure. The specific requirements can vary depending on the country and jurisdiction you are in, but I'll provide a general overview of the process in many jurisdictions:
1. **Education**: Obtain a Bachelor's degree. While you can technically pursue any undergraduate major, many aspiring lawyers choose a degree related to law, political science, or a related field. This degree isn't necessarily a law degree, as you'll need to attend law school later.
2. **Law School**: After completing your Bachelor's degree, you'll need to attend law school. In the United States, this typically involves a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. Law school provides in-depth legal education, covering various areas of law and legal theory.
3. **Licensing Exam**: After completing law school, you'll need to pass the bar exam in your jurisdiction. The bar exam is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply it to various scenarios. It often consists of multiple sections, including multiple-choice questions, essays, and performance tests.
4. **Character and Fitness Evaluation**: In many jurisdictions, you'll need to undergo a character and fitness evaluation to ensure that you have the moral character and ethical standards required to practice law.
5. **Internship/Articling/Training**: Depending on the jurisdiction, you might be required to complete a certain period of practical training. This could involve working as an intern, articling under an experienced lawyer, or participating in a training program.
6. **Specialization (Optional)**: After becoming licensed, some lawyers choose to specialize in specific areas of law, such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, etc. Specialization often involves additional training and experience.
7. **Continuing Legal Education**: In many jurisdictions, lawyers are required to engage in ongoing education to stay updated on changes in the law and legal practices.
8. **Professional Development**: Throughout your legal career, you'll need to continuously develop your skills and stay current with legal developments to provide the best representation to your clients.
It's important to note that the process can vary significantly depending on where you are located. Some countries have different paths to becoming a lawyer, and the requirements can vary within different states or provinces. It's advisable to research the specific requirements in your jurisdiction or consult with a local legal authority or law school for accurate and up-to-date information.
1. **Education**: Obtain a Bachelor's degree. While you can technically pursue any undergraduate major, many aspiring lawyers choose a degree related to law, political science, or a related field. This degree isn't necessarily a law degree, as you'll need to attend law school later.
2. **Law School**: After completing your Bachelor's degree, you'll need to attend law school. In the United States, this typically involves a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. Law school provides in-depth legal education, covering various areas of law and legal theory.
3. **Licensing Exam**: After completing law school, you'll need to pass the bar exam in your jurisdiction. The bar exam is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply it to various scenarios. It often consists of multiple sections, including multiple-choice questions, essays, and performance tests.
4. **Character and Fitness Evaluation**: In many jurisdictions, you'll need to undergo a character and fitness evaluation to ensure that you have the moral character and ethical standards required to practice law.
5. **Internship/Articling/Training**: Depending on the jurisdiction, you might be required to complete a certain period of practical training. This could involve working as an intern, articling under an experienced lawyer, or participating in a training program.
6. **Specialization (Optional)**: After becoming licensed, some lawyers choose to specialize in specific areas of law, such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, etc. Specialization often involves additional training and experience.
7. **Continuing Legal Education**: In many jurisdictions, lawyers are required to engage in ongoing education to stay updated on changes in the law and legal practices.
8. **Professional Development**: Throughout your legal career, you'll need to continuously develop your skills and stay current with legal developments to provide the best representation to your clients.
It's important to note that the process can vary significantly depending on where you are located. Some countries have different paths to becoming a lawyer, and the requirements can vary within different states or provinces. It's advisable to research the specific requirements in your jurisdiction or consult with a local legal authority or law school for accurate and up-to-date information.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Becoming a lawyer and graduating from law school is an ambitious goal, but with dedication and a clear plan, you can achieve it. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get there:
**1. Undergraduate Education:**
- Start by earning a bachelor's degree in any field. There is no specific major required for law school, so choose a subject that interests you and aligns with your strengths.
**2. Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Law schools consider undergraduate GPA as part of the admission process, so strive for academic excellence throughout your undergraduate studies.
**3. LSAT Preparation:**
- The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for law school admission. Prepare for the LSAT by studying relevant materials, taking practice tests, and considering LSAT prep courses.
**4. Choose Law Schools:**
- Research law schools and create a list of institutions that align with your career goals and preferences. Consider factors like location, specialization areas, and admission requirements.
**5. Application Process:**
- Prepare your law school applications, which typically include your undergraduate transcripts, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Pay close attention to application deadlines.
**6. Financial Planning:**
- Explore scholarship opportunities, financial aid, and loan options to fund your law school education. Develop a budget to manage your finances during this period.
**7. Law School:**
- Once accepted, enroll in a law school that meets your criteria. Law school typically takes three years for a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
**8. Academic Performance:**
- Focus on your studies and maintain a strong academic record during law school. Law school is challenging, so staying organized and disciplined is crucial.
**9. Internships and Clerkships:**
- Seek internships or clerkships with law firms, government agencies, or legal organizations to gain practical experience and build your professional network.
**10. Join Law Associations:**
- Join law-related student organizations or local bar associations to connect with legal professionals and stay informed about industry trends.
**11. Bar Exam Preparation:**
- After graduating from law school, you'll need to prepare for and pass the bar exam in your state. Bar review courses and rigorous study are essential for success.
**12. Bar Exam:**
- Take the bar exam in your state. Passing the bar is a requirement to practice law in most jurisdictions.
**13. Legal Practice:**
- Upon passing the bar exam, you can begin your legal career. You may choose to work at a law firm, government agency, corporate legal department, or as a solo practitioner.
**14. Continuing Education:**
- Legal education doesn't end with law school. Stay updated on legal developments by attending seminars, workshops, and continuing legal education (CLE) courses.
**15. Professional Growth:**
- Continuously seek opportunities for professional growth, such as mentorship, specialization in a legal field, or pursuing advanced degrees like an LLM (Master of Laws).
Remember that becoming a lawyer is a demanding and long-term commitment, but it can also be highly rewarding. Stay focused, persevere through challenges, and seek guidance from legal professionals and mentors along the way. Your dedication and hard work will ultimately lead you to achieve your goal of graduating from law school and becoming a lawyer.
**1. Undergraduate Education:**
- Start by earning a bachelor's degree in any field. There is no specific major required for law school, so choose a subject that interests you and aligns with your strengths.
**2. Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Law schools consider undergraduate GPA as part of the admission process, so strive for academic excellence throughout your undergraduate studies.
**3. LSAT Preparation:**
- The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for law school admission. Prepare for the LSAT by studying relevant materials, taking practice tests, and considering LSAT prep courses.
**4. Choose Law Schools:**
- Research law schools and create a list of institutions that align with your career goals and preferences. Consider factors like location, specialization areas, and admission requirements.
**5. Application Process:**
- Prepare your law school applications, which typically include your undergraduate transcripts, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Pay close attention to application deadlines.
**6. Financial Planning:**
- Explore scholarship opportunities, financial aid, and loan options to fund your law school education. Develop a budget to manage your finances during this period.
**7. Law School:**
- Once accepted, enroll in a law school that meets your criteria. Law school typically takes three years for a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
**8. Academic Performance:**
- Focus on your studies and maintain a strong academic record during law school. Law school is challenging, so staying organized and disciplined is crucial.
**9. Internships and Clerkships:**
- Seek internships or clerkships with law firms, government agencies, or legal organizations to gain practical experience and build your professional network.
**10. Join Law Associations:**
- Join law-related student organizations or local bar associations to connect with legal professionals and stay informed about industry trends.
**11. Bar Exam Preparation:**
- After graduating from law school, you'll need to prepare for and pass the bar exam in your state. Bar review courses and rigorous study are essential for success.
**12. Bar Exam:**
- Take the bar exam in your state. Passing the bar is a requirement to practice law in most jurisdictions.
**13. Legal Practice:**
- Upon passing the bar exam, you can begin your legal career. You may choose to work at a law firm, government agency, corporate legal department, or as a solo practitioner.
**14. Continuing Education:**
- Legal education doesn't end with law school. Stay updated on legal developments by attending seminars, workshops, and continuing legal education (CLE) courses.
**15. Professional Growth:**
- Continuously seek opportunities for professional growth, such as mentorship, specialization in a legal field, or pursuing advanced degrees like an LLM (Master of Laws).
Remember that becoming a lawyer is a demanding and long-term commitment, but it can also be highly rewarding. Stay focused, persevere through challenges, and seek guidance from legal professionals and mentors along the way. Your dedication and hard work will ultimately lead you to achieve your goal of graduating from law school and becoming a lawyer.