How to Become a Lawyer
Becoming a lawyer allows you to work in one of the most lucrative, widely-needed professions available. Lawyers must have an intense knowledge of the law and of the legal system so they can provide the best service possible for their clients. Because of the highly-specialized nature of the work, career training involved in how to become a lawyer takes much longer than that for many other professions. The education alone takes a minimum of seven years but the benefits of working in this exciting profession make the training well worth it. If you are interested in the law and the justice system, consider going back to school to start your path toward a career in law.
Educational Requirements
The first step in how to become a lawyer is to get a four-year undergraduate degree. It is recommended that this degree be in criminal justice, pre-law, or a related field. If, however, you are interested in intellectual property law, a degree in technical science or mathematics may be beneficial to you. Many online universities offer distance education programs that will fit the needs of those looking to enter a career in law. During your undergraduate training, you will complete a variety of core educational classes as well as classes related to the legal system. To give yourself an added advantage in law school admissions, try to work in a legal setting while in school, even if you are just completing summer internships. If you are able to complete much of your education through online college courses, you will have increased flexibility for working a legal job.
The next step in how to become a lawyer is to get accepted to law school. This is a highly competitive process so make sure you apply to at least four different programs to increase your chances of admission. This portion of your training will feature in-depth studies of law and the legal process and typically lasts around three years. In many states, there may be possible alternatives to law school. In California, for example, you may complete either four years in an unaccredited law program, four years in a law office or a judge’s chambers program, or a combination of the two in lieu of law school. Check with your state for possible law school alternatives that will qualify you to become a bar member.
Taking the Bar Exam
To become a practicing lawyer, you must become a member of the bar in the state in which you choose to practice. The exam is state-specific and will require training beyond what you receive in law school. Many people take an exam preparation course to meet this shortfall. You will need to pass the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE), Multistate Essay Examination (MEE), a character and fitness review, a multistate performance test, and possibly the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam.
Once you complete the steps of how to become a lawyer, you can start working either in an independent practice or in the offices of others. This is an exciting, challenging career that offers a new experience everyday. On average, lawyers earn around $120,000 a year so this is one of the most lucrative career paths you can choose. If this sounds like the job for you, find a great college and start working toward your new life today.
