How to Become a Lawyer in America
To become a lawyer in America you must devote years of your time to the education required to receive your license to practice law. Once you have received your education, you are required to pass a rigorous exam in the state in which you choose to practice. The path is a long one but the rewards can be great.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Complete your undergraduate education and receive a bachelor's degree in the major of your choice. Contrary to popular belief, there is no "pre-law" program or major. Law schools accept applicants from all undergraduate majors.
-
2
Apply to law schools while in undergraduate school or after completing your undergraduate education. Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). This is a specialized test designed to indicate whether someone will perform well in law school. Schools have different requirements for acceptable scores on the LSAT but most want a score higher than 140.
-
-
3
Attend three years of law school at an American Bar Association accredited law school and receive your Juris Doctorate degree. Take advantage of any internships while in law school.
-
4
Apply to the governing board in that state where you wish to practice to receive your license to practice law. The governing body may be the state Bar Association, the Board of Law Examiners or another organization formed by the Supreme Court to license and govern lawyers.
-
5
Successfully pass the Bar examination in your state as well as the Multi-state Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE). Most states also require a character and fitness investigation to determine whether you have the proper character to become an attorney. These investigations generally look into your criminal and financial history. Comply with any other application or pre-licensing requirements in your state.
-
6
Attend the swearing in ceremony held in your state and take the oath of attorney.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Justice image by MVit from Fotolia.com
