How to Become a Lawyer in the US?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a lawyer in the US? Unlike many countries, the path to a legal career in the US involves more than just a law degree—it's a structured process that tests not only your academic abilities but also your commitment and strategic planning. Whether you’re a high school student curious about legal careers, an international student eyeing the US for law school, or even someone exploring a career change, this guide offers application insights and career planning strategies tailored to help you achieve your goal.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Lawyer in the US

The journey to becoming a lawyer is more than just ticking boxes; it's about making informed decisions at every stage. However, this can be a long and sometimes complicated process. To simplify this, here's a roadmap:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: A law degree (Juris Doctor) is a graduate-level program in the US, so you'll need an undergraduate degree first. Choosing a major that aligns with law school education is not a must, but can be helpful.
2. Choose the Right Law School: Decide which schools align with your career goals and financial capacity the most; give yourself time to think through this process, as you'll be spending at least 3 years in the law school you choose!
3. Law School Application: Figure out the application requirements of your desired law school and program, keeping in mind your strengths and the preferences of your target schools, and start your application as early as possible.
4. Complete a JD Program: Law school is a three-year commitment with intense coursework, internships, and networking opportunities. Cherish those opportunities which can help you land a job after graduation.
5. Pass the Bar Exam in Your Preferred State: Decide which state you want to qualify in, and understand each state's specific requirements; choose wisely as this exam determines your ability to practice law!
6. Build Up Work Experience: Build legal experience strategically through working at law firms, courts, and even NGOs. Discover your area of interest and make it your expertise. You've got this!

Think of these steps as investments in your career. Each decision, from choosing your major to selecting a state for the bar exam, should align with your long-term goals.

Best Majors for Law School

In the US, earning a bachelor's degree is the first step toward becoming a lawyer. Unlike countries like the UK or Australia, where students can study law as an undergraduate degree, US law schools require applicants to complete a four-year undergraduate program first. During college, choosing the right major can prepare you for success in law school.

Choosing the Right Major

Law schools don’t require a specific major, but selecting one that hones analytical, communication, and reasoning skills can give you an advantage. Here are 15 Best Majors for Law School:

• Political Science
• Philosophy
• English
• History
• Economics
• Psychology
• Criminal Justice
• Sociology
• Communications
• International Relations
• Environmental Science
• Public Administration
• Business
• Anthropology
• Foreign Languages

Pre-Law Programs

Some universities offer pre-law programs designed to prepare students for law school. While not mandatory, these programs provide foundational knowledge in legal systems, critical thinking, and research. They also often include opportunities to meet legal professionals and gain early exposure to the field.

Takeaways:

While traditional majors like Political Science remain popular, interdisciplinary fields like Environmental Science (for environmental law) or Computer Science (for cybersecurity law) are becoming increasingly relevant. More importantly, it comes down to your interest. Think strategically about how your major aligns with your long-term career goals in law.

How to Choose a Law School

Selecting the right law school is one of the most critical decisions on your path to becoming a lawyer. Beyond rankings, it's essential to consider factors that align with your career aspirations, personal preferences, and financial situation. Here's a guide to help you make an informed choice:

1. Identify Your Career Goals

• Specialization Areas: If you’re passionate about tech law, Stanford may be an excellent fit. If you want to dedicate yourself to public interest law, NYU is a great pick.
• Geographic Preferences: Where you want to practice law matters. Many schools have strong regional reputations and connections with local legal markets.
• Type of Practice: Determine whether you want to pursue public interest, corporate law, academia, or another field, as some schools excel in particular sectors.

2. Consider Law School Rankings and Reputation

• National Rankings: Use resources like the Top 10 Law School Rankings in the US 2025 for general prestige.
• Specialized Rankings: Look for schools that rank highly in your area of interest, such as international law or intellectual property.
• Employer Perception: Research how alumni from the school are perceived by law firms, government agencies, or corporations.

3. Review Financial Considerations

• Tuition Costs: Investigate tuition rates and compare them with financial aid packages. For the most updated and complete cost of law school in 2025, check out How Much Does Law School Cost in 2025?
• Scholarships: Look for merit-based or need-based scholarships to reduce debt.
• Return on Investment (ROI): Assess potential earnings post-graduation compared to the cost of attending law school.

4. Analyze Curriculum and Faculty

• Curriculum Strength: Does the school offer specialized courses or dual-degree programs that align with your interests?
• Faculty Expertise: Learn about professors’ research areas and their involvement in the legal field.

5. Explore School Culture

• Class Size: Smaller schools may offer more personalized attention, while larger schools provide broader alumni networks.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Research the school’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Student Life: Consider extracurricular activities, law journals, moot court opportunities, and student organizations.

Takeaways:

Choosing a law school isn’t just about prestige—it’s about finding a place that supports your professional growth, minimizes debt, and sets you up for long-term success. By prioritizing your unique needs and leveraging resources such as campus visits, alumni connections, and career services, you can make a decision that aligns with your goals.

How to Apply to Law School

After shortlisting your ideal law schols, it's time to prepare the application materials you need! While admissions requirements vary from law school to law school, there are some general tips for applicants:

1. Prepare Application Materials: Prepare LSAT/GRE scores, transcripts, a compelling personal statement, recommendation letters, and a resume are essential.
2. Demonstrate Passion and Authenticity: In your personal statement, highlight unique experiences, such as overcoming challenges or achieving leadership milestones.
3. Apply Early: Early decision applications can increase your chances of acceptance, especially at competitive schools.
4. Leverage Networking: Connect with alumni or admissions officers to understand school culture and expectations.

For a fuller description on How to Get into Law School, check out this separate article.

LSAT vs. GRE

Traditionally, the LSAT was the only gateway to law school, but recent changes reflect a shift towards flexibility. Prestigious schools like Harvard now accept the GRE, allowing applicants with diverse academic backgrounds to compete. This gives applicants more flexibility to choose the standardized test to their likings.

If you excel in quantitative skills or are exploring backup graduate school options, the GRE may work in your favor. For law school-focused applicants, the LSAT remains the gold standard. If you want to maximise your chance of passing the LSAT or GRE, it is a good idea to consider Online LSAT Tutors or Online GRE Tutors.

What is Law School Like?

Law school is rigorous, challenging students academically and personally. Here's what to expect and how to succeed:

What to Expect in Law School

1. Intense Academics: First-year courses like contracts and torts dominate, focusing on legal analysis, writing, and advocacy.
2. Socratic Method: Professors use this interactive teaching style to foster critical thinking.
3. Grading and Competition: Grades, often based on one final exam, and class rankings significantly impact job opportunities.
4. Networking and Extracurriculars: Moot court, law review, and student organizations are vital for skill-building and connections.

How to Get the Most Out of Law School

1. Master Time Management: Balance coursework, internships, and personal commitments effectively.
2. Engage in Class: Active participation deepens understanding and builds rapport with professors.
3. Gain Practical Experience: Internships, externships, and clinics apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings.
4. Leverage Resources: Use career services for job placements, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
5. Prioritize Health: Maintain work-life balance through exercise, hobbies, and relaxation to manage stress.

Law school is a transformative journey where proactive effort and strategic planning can pave the way for a successful legal career.

Bar Exam & Qualification

In the United States, passing the bar exam is the final and most crucial step in becoming a licensed attorney. Unlike other countries like the UK, where practical work experience is required for qualification, the US system primarily focuses on passing the bar exam and undergoing a character and fitness review.

What Is the Bar Exam?

1. Purpose: The bar exam assesses your knowledge of state-specific laws, federal laws, and ethical standards required to practice law.
2. Format: Most states use the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE), which includes three components:
   • Multistate Bar Examination (MBE): A 200-question multiple-choice test covering core legal subjects.
   • Multistate Essay Examination (MEE): Tests your ability to analyze legal issues and communicate effectively in writing.
   • Multistate Performance Test (MPT): Evaluates practical lawyering skills, such as drafting memos or contracts.
3. State-Specific Requirements: Some states, like California and New York, include additional sections focused on state law.

Choosing the Right State to Qualify

1. New York: Popular for its large legal market and opportunities in corporate law and international law.
2. California: Known for its rigorous exam but highly desirable for those seeking careers in tech law or entertainment law.
3. Other UBE States: States like Illinois, Texas, and Florida offer flexibility for those considering relocation, as the UBE score can transfer between participating states.

Character and Fitness Review

After passing the bar exam, you must complete a character and fitness review. This process includes:

• Background Check: A review of your academic, employment, and criminal history to ensure you meet ethical standards.
• Personal References: Some states require letters of recommendation or testimony from those familiar with your character.

Takeaways

1. Start Early: Prepare for the bar exam months in advance using prep courses tailored to your state.
2. Choose Your State Wisely: Consider where you plan to live and work long-term, as this will impact networking and job prospects.
3. International Students: International students aiming to qualify in the US should research the eligibility requirements of their desired state. For example, states like New York allow foreign-trained lawyers to sit for the bar exam after completing an LLM from an accredited US law school.
4. Focus on Ethics: The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) is a separate ethics exam required in most states and should not be overlooked.

By understanding the requirements and planning strategically, you can navigate the bar exam and qualification process confidently and effectively.

Conclusion

Becoming a lawyer in the US is not a one-size-fits-all journey. From choosing the right undergraduate major to planning your law school applications and preparing for the bar exam, every step requires thoughtful decision-making. Use this guide as a starting point to map out your path, whether you dream of practicing law in bustling New York or innovative California. With the right strategies and determination, your legal aspirations are within reach.