Degree Requirements
A career in law typically requires specific academic qualifications. The foundational degree is a Bachelor’s degree, which is necessary before pursuing graduate legal studies.
The most critical degree is the Juris Doctor (JD), a graduate professional degree required to practice law in the United States. The JD program usually spans three years and is offered by accredited law schools.
Some legal careers, such as paralegals or legal assistants, may only require an associate’s degree or certification, but becoming a licensed attorney mandates a JD and passing the bar exam.
Recommended Majors
While law schools accept students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds, the following majors provide a strong foundation for legal studies and critical thinking:
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Philosophy
- English or Communications
- Business Administration
Majors that emphasize writing, research, and analytical skills tend to prepare students well for the rigors of law school.
Professional Certifications
Beyond the JD, legal professionals can enhance their credentials through certifications. Some of the recognized certifications include:
| Certification | Certifying Body | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Paralegal (CP) | National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) | Validates paralegal expertise and professionalism |
| Board Certified Specialist | Various State Bar Associations | Recognition in specific legal practice areas (e.g., family law) |
| Certified Legal Manager (CLM) | Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) | For legal practice managers and administrators |
Passing the Bar Exam is mandatory for practicing attorneys and is administered by each state’s Bar Association.
Continuing Education
Licensed attorneys must complete Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits annually or biannually to maintain their license. CLE programs cover updates in law, ethics, and professional skills.
Continuing education is also valuable for paralegals and legal assistants to stay current with industry standards and regulations.
Many state bar associations and professional bodies offer CLE courses both in-person and online.
Online Learning Options
Online education has become a viable option for many aspects of legal education, especially for continuing education and certain certificate programs.
Notable online options include:
- ABA-Approved Online JD Programs: Some schools like Syracuse University and Mitchell Hamline School of Law offer partially or fully online JD programs approved by the American Bar Association.
- Paralegal Certificates: Institutions such as Boston University and the University of California offer accredited online paralegal certificate programs.
- Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Platforms like West LegalEdcenter and the National Business Institute provide online CLE courses.
Apprenticeship/Internship
Hands-on experience is critical in legal careers. Law students and aspiring legal professionals should pursue internships or clerkships to gain practical exposure.
Common opportunities include:
- Judicial Clerkships in local, state, or federal courts
- Internships at law firms such as Baker McKenzie or Jones Day
- Positions with government agencies like the U.S. Department of Justice or state Attorney General offices
- Nonprofit legal aid organizations
These experiences help build practical skills, professional networks, and often improve employment prospects after graduation.
Graduate Programs
Beyond the JD, legal professionals may pursue advanced degrees to specialize or enhance career opportunities:
| Degree | Focus | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Laws (LL.M.) | Specialized legal fields such as Tax Law, International Law | 1 year full-time |
| Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD or JSD) | Academic research and teaching in law | 3-5 years |
| Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) | Non-lawyers working in legal environments | 1-2 years |
Graduate programs can open doors to academia, specialized practice areas, or leadership roles in legal organizations.
Cost and ROI
Legal education can be expensive, but the return on investment (ROI) is generally strong for licensed attorneys.
Average costs:
- Bachelor’s Degree: $40,000 to $100,000+ depending on institution
- Juris Doctor (JD) Degree: $80,000 to $150,000+ at ABA-accredited law schools
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for lawyers was approximately $127,990 as of 2022, with top earners making well over $200,000 annually.
Paralegals earn a median salary of about $56,230 per year, with certification and experience impacting pay.
Careful selection of schools and scholarships can improve ROI. Graduates working at large law firms like Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP or in corporate legal departments often see higher salaries and faster loan repayment.