About Law

Lawyers are qualified practitioners who represent individuals, private and federal agencies in courts. They use their knowledge of laws, judiciary and precedents on special trials to help their clients secure their rights. Studying law takes around 7 years in the US, the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) being compulsory to gain admission in a law school. The exact requirements for becoming a lawyer vary tremendously worldwide and many countries will allow professional practice with just 3 years of law school education.

　　

Is Law right for me?

Students proficient in public speaking or debating coupled with the ability of absorbing enormous amounts of information are encouraged to study law. Having an analytical mindset is also a key trait aspiring lawyers must possess as it helps them to spot patterns and discrepancies in cases allowing them to make a stronger argument. Furthermore, law students must have strong communication skills not only to write effectively but also defend their stance verbally. This fundamental skill will also be crucial in work life as lawyers have to communicate with clients and convince juries to rule in their favour.

　　

Law study options and costs

　　The first step for studying law is acquiring a bachelor’s degree. However, in some other countries you can enrol directly into a bachelor’s of law programme. There is no specific bachelor’s degree that is a prerequisite to getting admitted into law school. However, students usually choose to study philosophy, psychology, sociology, political science or criminal justice to obtain a stronger foundation for law. A bachelor’s degree in the US costs around $20,000-$40,000 depending on the college and programme a student chooses. The duration is usually four years.

　　The subsequent step is taking the LSAT (Law School Admissions Test), it consists of 175 multiple choice questions and a written essay. The total fee for this process rounds up to $340 and it includes the writing test, law school report and credential assembly service. Your LSAT score will help you gain admission to a school offering a JD (Juris Doctor) degree programme. In the US, it is important to complete your JD at a school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

　　Once students enter their desired law school, they likely specialise in a discipline of law such as criminal, tax, constitutional or environmental law. This process usually takes three years to complete and over the three years a law student in the United States can expect to pay anywhere from $87,222 (in-state, public school) to $153,804 (private school) for the entire programme.

　　In the US, once you earn your Juris Doctor, completing the State Bar Association examination provides you the license to practice law within your state. Since laws and legislations in different states vary, a law student may need to appear in the State Bar examinations of different states.

　　Many law students intern in government or private firms during their education to gain practical experience. The work includes research for cases, taking notes during trials and interacting with clients. After completing the above-mentioned milestones, lawyers can apply for various certifications to master litigation.

　　

Future outlook

According to the US Bureau of labour statistics, the employment opportunities for lawyers are projected to grow by 9% this decade. A whopping 46,000 job openings are projected for lawyers each year! The demand for lawyers and paralegals is expected to continue its steep ascent in the future. Individuals, businesses and federal agencies will always remain in need of legal services making this a both lucrative and secure future path.

　　

Career pathways for Law graduates

　　

Immigration lawyer

　　Immigration lawyers help people get visas and permanent residence to foreign countries. They are also involved in dealing with deportation and citizenships. The average salary for an immigration lawyer in the US is $66,226 per year.

　　

Judge

　　A judge presides over court-room meetings and trials, it is their job to analyse evidence and make sure a fair ruling is given in accordance with the state or national laws. However, they might act as mediators in cases involving a jury. The average salary for a judge in the US is $83,002.

　　

Law Professor

　　A law professor basically teaches and guides law students through the course of their degree. They may continue to practice law simultaneously as well. Their average salary is $93,312 per year.

　　

Corporate Counsel

　　Corporate counsellors review business contracts, regulations and mergers between companies to make sure everything is being conducted legally. They also form the first line of defence if a company is threatened by a lawsuit. Their average salary in the US is $124,788 per year.

　　

Political affairs officer

　　These officers have to be accomplished in foreign and national law since they usually serve as liaisons or ambassadors of a country. They are involved in drafting policies that benefit both of the governments involved and maintain peace. The average salary of a political affairs officer is $100,091 per year.

　　

Patent Attorney

　　Patent attorneys are involved with clients who usually patent an invention. They are responsible for filing the patent application, reviewing any pre-existing ones and helping with copyright issues. Their average salary in the US is $175,524 per year.