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How can I become a lawyer in future.
How can I become a lawyer when I grow up and which subject should I study most?
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Mitchell’s Answer
Regardless of your age or current educational stage, I'm guessing you're either on the brink of high school or already navigating through it. Let me encourage you to embrace classes that challenge you to write extensively, conduct thorough research, and articulate your thoughts. Engage in subjects like English, Literature, Debate, U.S. History, Civics, Political Science, Grammar, and any AP classes that align with these areas. As you ascend to college, think about pursuing a major in Political Science or Communications, or even Prelaw. Remember, law schools welcome all types of undergraduate degrees. Your future is bright and full of potential!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Henry,
Deciphering the Role of an Attorney
An attorney is a certified professional who is authorized to practice law, offering counsel and representation on legal issues to their clients. They can specialize in a variety of areas including criminal law, corporate law, intellectual property, tax law, and family law, among others.
Guidelines to Becoming an Attorney
1. Attain a Bachelor’s Degree
Before you can apply to law school, it's necessary to acquire a bachelor’s degree from an approved college or university. While there's no specific major required for law school, it's advisable to select a subject that piques your interest and hones your reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking abilities. Popular majors often include political science, philosophy, English, and economics.
2. Undertake the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is a mandatory standardized test for admission to most law schools in the United States. It evaluates reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning abilities. To prepare for the test, consider taking practice tests and if needed, enroll in a preparatory course.
3. Submit Applications to Law Schools
Investigate various law schools to identify the one that aligns with your aspirations and requirements. Consider aspects like location, cost, reputation, and alumni network. During your final year of college or the year after graduation, submit applications to multiple schools via the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). It's advisable to apply to at least six law schools to boost your chances of acceptance.
4. Obtain a Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
Enroll in an accredited law school and strive to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which usually requires three years of full-time study. In your JD program, you'll study a range of legal subjects like civil procedure, constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, property law, and torts. You'll also have the chance to gain practical experience through internships or externships at law firms or legal organizations.
5. Clear the Bar Examination
Upon obtaining your JD degree, you need to clear the bar examination in the state where you intend to practice law. The bar exam is typically a two-day test featuring multiple-choice questions and essays that evaluate your understanding of legal principles and ethics. Some states also necessitate passing a separate ethics exam.
6. Gain Admission to the Bar Association
After passing the bar exam, you need to seek admission to the state’s bar association. This process generally involves submitting an application with character references and paying a fee. Once approved, you will be officially recognized as a practicing attorney in that state.
Key Study Areas
Though there's no specific major required for law school, certain subjects can be advantageous for developing the skills needed for success in law school:
Philosophy: This major can assist students in honing critical thinking skills and learning how to dissect arguments and ethical dilemmas—vital skills for attorneys.
Political Science: This subject focuses on understanding government systems and policy-making processes, knowledge that can be beneficial in many areas of law like constitutional or administrative law.
English: A solid foundation in writing and literature can aid attorneys in developing persuasive writing skills and improving their ability to articulate complex ideas effectively—both vital during law school and in their professional career.
Economics: An understanding of economics provides students with insights into market structures, financial systems, and regulatory policies—all of which are pertinent when dealing with business or corporate law issues.
Godspeed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Deciphering the Role of an Attorney
An attorney is a certified professional who is authorized to practice law, offering counsel and representation on legal issues to their clients. They can specialize in a variety of areas including criminal law, corporate law, intellectual property, tax law, and family law, among others.
Guidelines to Becoming an Attorney
1. Attain a Bachelor’s Degree
Before you can apply to law school, it's necessary to acquire a bachelor’s degree from an approved college or university. While there's no specific major required for law school, it's advisable to select a subject that piques your interest and hones your reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking abilities. Popular majors often include political science, philosophy, English, and economics.
2. Undertake the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is a mandatory standardized test for admission to most law schools in the United States. It evaluates reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning abilities. To prepare for the test, consider taking practice tests and if needed, enroll in a preparatory course.
3. Submit Applications to Law Schools
Investigate various law schools to identify the one that aligns with your aspirations and requirements. Consider aspects like location, cost, reputation, and alumni network. During your final year of college or the year after graduation, submit applications to multiple schools via the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). It's advisable to apply to at least six law schools to boost your chances of acceptance.
4. Obtain a Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
Enroll in an accredited law school and strive to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which usually requires three years of full-time study. In your JD program, you'll study a range of legal subjects like civil procedure, constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, property law, and torts. You'll also have the chance to gain practical experience through internships or externships at law firms or legal organizations.
5. Clear the Bar Examination
Upon obtaining your JD degree, you need to clear the bar examination in the state where you intend to practice law. The bar exam is typically a two-day test featuring multiple-choice questions and essays that evaluate your understanding of legal principles and ethics. Some states also necessitate passing a separate ethics exam.
6. Gain Admission to the Bar Association
After passing the bar exam, you need to seek admission to the state’s bar association. This process generally involves submitting an application with character references and paying a fee. Once approved, you will be officially recognized as a practicing attorney in that state.
Key Study Areas
Though there's no specific major required for law school, certain subjects can be advantageous for developing the skills needed for success in law school:
Philosophy: This major can assist students in honing critical thinking skills and learning how to dissect arguments and ethical dilemmas—vital skills for attorneys.
Political Science: This subject focuses on understanding government systems and policy-making processes, knowledge that can be beneficial in many areas of law like constitutional or administrative law.
English: A solid foundation in writing and literature can aid attorneys in developing persuasive writing skills and improving their ability to articulate complex ideas effectively—both vital during law school and in their professional career.
Economics: An understanding of economics provides students with insights into market structures, financial systems, and regulatory policies—all of which are pertinent when dealing with business or corporate law issues.
Godspeed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Updated
Kathryn’s Answer
Hi Henry,
All the above are great answers. I would just add a few points that I learned the hard way. I came from a first-generation professionals family and that background gave me a different perspective on how to make law school a viable future. In addition to the above, there was a gap I had to jump, and I learned a few tips that I hope help:
1. If a particular test (SAT/LSAT/etc.) is difficult or not "clicking," invest in yourself and try to find a way to get a course or a tutor. It's perfectly normal that those tests are hard if you don't grow up around people who have taken the same tests. Don't give up! I got a reduced price on tutoring for the LSAT by using my college's resources/acting as a proofreader and guinea pig for the tutor's new content. I was also nervous to approach a top private tutor that wasn't with a big company because I thought it would be too expensive, but it turned out he took on a few students at a reduced rate. There are ways to get the help and investing in yourself is worth it.
2. Aim for high scores in college and on the LSAT. Getting top grades/scores is NOT a prerequisite to having a great and fulfilling law school and legal career. However, the higher your scores and grades are, the more likely it is that you'll receive extra scholarships from law schools. Think of it as the "cherry on top" to aim for, but not determinative of a great career.
3. Check your local resources/college resources/law school resources to see if they offer an intro course to law school before going. Law school, like the tests you take to get there, is just another way of thinking. I didn't grow up around it, so I had to learn how to think that way. Law school prep can be a good (and fun!) way to ease into law school.
You got this! Wishing you the absolute best!
All the above are great answers. I would just add a few points that I learned the hard way. I came from a first-generation professionals family and that background gave me a different perspective on how to make law school a viable future. In addition to the above, there was a gap I had to jump, and I learned a few tips that I hope help:
1. If a particular test (SAT/LSAT/etc.) is difficult or not "clicking," invest in yourself and try to find a way to get a course or a tutor. It's perfectly normal that those tests are hard if you don't grow up around people who have taken the same tests. Don't give up! I got a reduced price on tutoring for the LSAT by using my college's resources/acting as a proofreader and guinea pig for the tutor's new content. I was also nervous to approach a top private tutor that wasn't with a big company because I thought it would be too expensive, but it turned out he took on a few students at a reduced rate. There are ways to get the help and investing in yourself is worth it.
2. Aim for high scores in college and on the LSAT. Getting top grades/scores is NOT a prerequisite to having a great and fulfilling law school and legal career. However, the higher your scores and grades are, the more likely it is that you'll receive extra scholarships from law schools. Think of it as the "cherry on top" to aim for, but not determinative of a great career.
3. Check your local resources/college resources/law school resources to see if they offer an intro course to law school before going. Law school, like the tests you take to get there, is just another way of thinking. I didn't grow up around it, so I had to learn how to think that way. Law school prep can be a good (and fun!) way to ease into law school.
You got this! Wishing you the absolute best!
Updated
Faith’s Answer
To become a lawyer in the future, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: To become a lawyer, you must first earn a bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university. While there is no specific major requirement for law school admission, it is recommended to choose a major that is related to the legal field or builds important skills such as critical thinking, writing, and research.
2. Take the LSAT: The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for admission to law school in the United States or other countries. You will need to prepare for the LSAT and achieve a competitive score to increase your chances of admission to law school.
3. Attend Law School: Once you have completed your undergraduate degree and received a competitive LSAT score, you can apply to law schools. Law school typically takes three years to complete and will focus on foundational legal knowledge, research, writing, and practical skills.
4. Pass the Bar Exam: After graduating from law school, you will need to pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice law. The bar exam is a rigorous test that assesses your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply legal principles to real-life situations.
5. Gain Experience: After passing the bar exam, you can begin working as a lawyer. Consider gaining experience through internships, clerkships, or entry-level positions at law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments to further develop your skills and knowledge in the field.
6. Consider Specialization: As you gain experience in the legal field, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of law such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, or environmental law. Specializing can help you build expertise in a particular area and attract clients who need specialized legal assistance.
7. Maintain Continuing Legal Education: To keep your law license current, you will need to complete continuing legal education (CLE) requirements set by your state bar association. This may include attending seminars, workshops, or courses to stay informed about changes in the law and legal practice.
By following these steps and staying committed to your education and professional development, you can work towards becoming a successful lawyer in the future.
1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: To become a lawyer, you must first earn a bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university. While there is no specific major requirement for law school admission, it is recommended to choose a major that is related to the legal field or builds important skills such as critical thinking, writing, and research.
2. Take the LSAT: The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for admission to law school in the United States or other countries. You will need to prepare for the LSAT and achieve a competitive score to increase your chances of admission to law school.
3. Attend Law School: Once you have completed your undergraduate degree and received a competitive LSAT score, you can apply to law schools. Law school typically takes three years to complete and will focus on foundational legal knowledge, research, writing, and practical skills.
4. Pass the Bar Exam: After graduating from law school, you will need to pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice law. The bar exam is a rigorous test that assesses your knowledge of the law and your ability to apply legal principles to real-life situations.
5. Gain Experience: After passing the bar exam, you can begin working as a lawyer. Consider gaining experience through internships, clerkships, or entry-level positions at law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments to further develop your skills and knowledge in the field.
6. Consider Specialization: As you gain experience in the legal field, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of law such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, or environmental law. Specializing can help you build expertise in a particular area and attract clients who need specialized legal assistance.
7. Maintain Continuing Legal Education: To keep your law license current, you will need to complete continuing legal education (CLE) requirements set by your state bar association. This may include attending seminars, workshops, or courses to stay informed about changes in the law and legal practice.
By following these steps and staying committed to your education and professional development, you can work towards becoming a successful lawyer in the future.
Updated
Jack’s Answer
Hi Henry,
All of the above is correct, however I want to add NETWORKING. The honest truth is, you'll eventually be hired by people who either (1) know you already and know you are capable of the work, (2) hired you as a recommendation, or (3) have already worked with you in the past. Even your first "real" job will probably result from an internship - your employer will already know you can do the work and are dependable. Therefore, when you are at college, law school, and in your internships, try to make professional connections. Be friendly with your classmates and coworkers, offer to help them study or join a study group. If they have a big project, offer to carry some of the load or help them. Become involved in moot court or other law school organizations, and get to know your class. Start thinking of your law school classmates as other industry professionals. Because in 15 years, those connections will be cultivated into a new job. Some classmate you had in Torts in your first year will become a partner at a law firm. And, yes, it might be you. But it might not be, so you want to keep that connection close, because she's going to be hiring one day!
That's the only thing I would add here - build your network, and think about yourself and your legal classmates as industry professionals. We all have a circle of connections in our lives, and if you want to be a lawyer, you should probably fill some of those spots with other lawyers.
Hope that helps,
Jack Ritchey
All of the above is correct, however I want to add NETWORKING. The honest truth is, you'll eventually be hired by people who either (1) know you already and know you are capable of the work, (2) hired you as a recommendation, or (3) have already worked with you in the past. Even your first "real" job will probably result from an internship - your employer will already know you can do the work and are dependable. Therefore, when you are at college, law school, and in your internships, try to make professional connections. Be friendly with your classmates and coworkers, offer to help them study or join a study group. If they have a big project, offer to carry some of the load or help them. Become involved in moot court or other law school organizations, and get to know your class. Start thinking of your law school classmates as other industry professionals. Because in 15 years, those connections will be cultivated into a new job. Some classmate you had in Torts in your first year will become a partner at a law firm. And, yes, it might be you. But it might not be, so you want to keep that connection close, because she's going to be hiring one day!
That's the only thing I would add here - build your network, and think about yourself and your legal classmates as industry professionals. We all have a circle of connections in our lives, and if you want to be a lawyer, you should probably fill some of those spots with other lawyers.
Hope that helps,
Jack Ritchey
I agree that networking is essential. However, would add that lack of connections should not serve as a deterrence. It is possible to enter the profession through your own handwork and determination.
Angellee Small
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