Education Needed to Become a Defense Attorney
People accused of a crime face the daunting prospect of defending themselves in a criminal justice system that can be very intimidating and confusing. A defense attorney serves to assist the accused in this ordeal. Becoming a defense attorney requires an extensive education and job experience.
Other People Are Reading
-
Undergraduate Degree
-
Obtain an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. While no particular major is necessary, it is advantageous to pursue a degree in a major that will be beneficial for studying the law. Such majors include Criminal Justice, Political Science, Psychology or English. Become familiar with the Law School Admission Council website.
Apply to Law School
-
Sign up for and take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The test is divided into several sections that test your analytical, logical and reading comprehension skills. Once you have taken the LSAT you may apply to an ABA-approved law school.
-
Law School Studies
-
Concentrate your studies for the field of criminal law. Take classes in criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence, and participate in moot court and criminal law clinics. Volunteer for local District Attorney and Public Defender offices. Spend your summers working for criminal defense firms. After graduation take and pass the bar exam in the state in which you wish to practice.
After Graduation
-
Search for employment as a court clerk or law firm associate that will provide you with experience in criminal law. Pursue positions that will provide litigation experience and learn the criminal statutes in your chosen jurisdiction.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit handcuffs image by William Berry from Fotolia.com
