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Valeria
Student
Yuma, Arizona
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How do you become a lawyer? Is it hard?
Hello, my name is Valeria and I’m 12 years old in 7th grade. My question is how do you become a lawyer? And is it a hard thing to do?
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2 answers
Angela Connor
5
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Angela’s Answer
Becoming a lawyer usually involves a journey that starts with 4 years of college after you finish high school. This is then followed by 3 more years spent in law school, and finally, you'll need to pass a bar exam, which is a state test for aspiring lawyers. The term "hard" can mean different things to different people. If you're someone who isn't afraid of hard work, enjoys reading a great deal, and is prepared to stick with it no matter what, then a career in law could be the perfect fit for you.
Brian Restauro
Patent Attorney
3
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Binghamton, New York
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Studying law and becoming a lawyer can be challenging, so it's beneficial if you have a genuine interest in a specific area of law. This passion can help you get through the more difficult times. If you're contemplating a career in law, doing some research can help you understand the legal field that truly captivates your interest. The Law School Admission Council's "Discover Law" platform, for example, provides insights into the life of a lawyer and how to prepare for law school. There are numerous areas of specialization, including maritime law, family law, sports and entertainment law, corporate law, real estate law, immigration law, criminal law, and intellectual property law, among others.
Step 1: Complete the Necessary Education
The usual route to becoming a lawyer involves completing high school and earning a bachelor's degree. Social science courses are beneficial as they foster societal understanding and enhance interpersonal skills. It's also advantageous to take analytical courses, such as philosophy or STEM subjects, as logical reasoning is a crucial aspect of legal practice.
Step 2: Pass the Law School Admission Test
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test used to rank students for law school admissions. It provides an objective measure to evaluate the knowledge and caliber of applicants. You'll need to take this test before applying to law school.
Step 3: Apply to Law Schools
Upon completing your undergraduate degree, you can apply to law school or take a break. Most schools consider a mix of overall GPA, undergraduate coursework, and LSAT scores when assessing applications. Other factors that may influence admission include community service, membership in organizations, and recommendation letters from educators, alumni, or legal professionals.
Step 1: Complete the Necessary Education
The usual route to becoming a lawyer involves completing high school and earning a bachelor's degree. Social science courses are beneficial as they foster societal understanding and enhance interpersonal skills. It's also advantageous to take analytical courses, such as philosophy or STEM subjects, as logical reasoning is a crucial aspect of legal practice.
Step 2: Pass the Law School Admission Test
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test used to rank students for law school admissions. It provides an objective measure to evaluate the knowledge and caliber of applicants. You'll need to take this test before applying to law school.
Step 3: Apply to Law Schools
Upon completing your undergraduate degree, you can apply to law school or take a break. Most schools consider a mix of overall GPA, undergraduate coursework, and LSAT scores when assessing applications. Other factors that may influence admission include community service, membership in organizations, and recommendation letters from educators, alumni, or legal professionals.