How to Become a Lawyer: Steps, Responsibilities, and Degrees

Becoming a lawyer is a journey that requires dedication and a passion for justice and advocacy. If you’re considering a law career, here’s what you should know about the path to becoming a lawyer.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Remember that the first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a field of your choice. While there is no specific major required for law schools, they recommend that aspiring lawyers study subjects such as history, political science, philosophy, and economics, as these subjects can provide a strong foundation for the legal concepts and analytical skills you’ll need in law school and in your career.

Step 2: Pass the Law School Admissions Test 

This test evaluates the skills necessary for success in law school. It is provided four times a year and is required by most law schools in the USA. You can prepare for the LSAT by taking a prep course, studying on your own, or both.

Step 3: Attend Law School

After you have taken the LSAT, the next step is to attend law school. Studying there lasts three years and will provide you with education in legal theory, writing, and reasoning. During law school, you’ll also have the opportunity to get practical experience through clinics, internships, and moot court competitions.

Step 4: Pass the Bar Exam

Once you have completed law school, the next step is to take and pass the bar exam. This exam is a standardized test that measures a lawyer’s knowledge of state law and legal ethics. The bar exam is administered by the state in which you wish to practice law, and the format and content of the exam vary by state.

Step 5: Start Practicing Law

After you have passed the bar exam, you are now eligible to practice law. To do so, you must find a job with a law firm, corporation, or government agency. You may also choose to start your own law practice. In either case, you’ll work under the supervision of a lawyer who is more qualified until you gain the experience and knowledge necessary to practice law independently.

What Does a Lawyer Do?

A lawyer is a professional who practices law and provides legal advice and representation to clients. Lawyers play a vital role in society by ensuring that the law is upheld and that everyone’s rights are protected. Here’s a closer look at what lawyers do and the various roles they play.

Drafting Legal Documents

All lawyers also draft a variety of legal documents, like wills, contracts, and trusts, to help clients secure their assets and protect their rights. They also review and interpret existing legal documents to make sure that they are in compliance with the law.

Legal Advice and Representation

One of the most important functions of a lawyer is to provide legal advice. Lawyers help clients learn their legal rights and obligations and provide guidance on how to navigate the legal system. Lawyers also represent clients in legal proceedings, like court cases and negotiations, by advocating on their behalf and presenting evidence and arguments to support their position.

Negotiating Settlements

In some cases, lawyers may negotiate different settlements on behalf of the clients to resolve legal disputes without going to court. Lawyers use their skills in negotiation and mediation to reach mutually acceptable agreements between parties.

Litigation

When negotiations fail, lawyers represent the clients in court proceedings, including trials, appeals, and arbitrations. Lawyers are responsible for preparing and presenting their client’s case, cross-examining witnesses, and making arguments to the judge and jury.

Advocate for Social and Political Change

Lawyers also play a role in advocating for social and political change. They work for government agencies, different organizations, or as public interest lawyers, using the law to promote justice and equality for all.

Exploring Law Degrees

A law degree is a valuable asset for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the legal field, whether as a lawyer, judge, paralegal, or any other related profession. There are several types of law degrees, each with its own unique focus and curriculum. Here’s an overview of the most common law degrees to help you explore your options and choose the right path for you.

Juris Doctor (JD)

It is the most common law degree and the one required to become a licensed attorney in the United States. The JD program takes three years and provides students with education in legal theory, writing, and reasoning. During law school, students can also gain practical experience through clinics, internships, and moot court competitions.

Master of Laws (LLM)

It is a postgraduate degree for lawyers who have already obtained a JD or an equivalent law degree. The LLM program typically focuses on a specific area of law, such as tax law, international law, or environmental law, and provides students with advanced training and expertise in that area.

Master of Juridical Science (MJurS)

The Master of Juridical Science (MJurS) is a specialized law degree that provides students with a deeper understanding of the legal system and the social, political, and economic factors that influence it. The MJurS program is ideal for students who are interested in teaching law, conducting legal research, or working in academia.

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides students with a broad-based education in legal theory. The LLB program is ideal for students who are interested in a career in law but do not want to pursue a JD or an LLM.

Becoming a lawyer is a challenging and long journey, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal and make a positive impact on society. Whether you’re interested in any area of law, the opportunities are endless, and the rewards are great. So if you’re up for the challenge, start your journey toward becoming a lawyer today.