Lawyers provide an invaluable service supported by rigorous education and ethics.
Law is a complex system that seeks to establish ethical guidelines by which members of society live. Lawyers play a substantial role in society acting as both counselors and legal advocates. The position requires character and adherence to a very strict ethical code. A lawyer's services are used in every crevice of society from business related matters to marriage and death ceremonies. As a result, a rigorous education supported by financial resources and a commitment to ethical execution are a few steps to become an intelligent and effective lawyer. In 2009, lawyers earned between $82,750 and $196,190, depending on industry, local economy and other factors, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Undergraduate Program Selection
The American Bar Association requires that law school applicants acquire a bachelor's degree -- at institutions approved by the organization -- for admission consideration. Many accredited undergraduate universities offer "pre-law" programs -- similar to premed programs -- that prepare students for entry into law school. This type of program, though not required, sets the foundation for the logical, analytical and philosophical skills necessary to enter law school. Candidates should be prepared to spend seven years obtaining a quality education.
In lieu of a pre-law program, candidates should select courses that prepare them for law school, such as logic, research, economics, rhetoric, philosophy or political science. Furthermore, maintaining a stellar GPA enhances the ability to get into law school.
Law School Selection & Financial Planning
Law school selection is an important step to obtaining a degree. Many factors -- location, expense, quality and flexibility, for example -- affect the decision-making process. A three-year program can cost between $30,000 and $55,000 per year, which varies based on the institution's reputation, residency and additional factors. As a result, at minimum, a basic financial plan helps to lessen the financial burden and ensure completion of the program. Attending an accredited, well established, quality institution is equally important.
Candidates should create a cost-of-attendance outline, check their credit scores and apply for financial aid in advance. Furthermore, research into the institution's reputation, rate of graduation, availability of clinical programs and faculty reputation provides a deeper understanding of the program. Ultimately, the most important component of the selection process is understanding what's important to you.
Take the LSAT & Complete Law School
The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is a standardized test that evaluates a candidate's potential to perform well in law school. The half-day exam is administered four times a year around the world. The test determines reading, verbal, analytical and logical reasoning skills through a series of multiple choice and essay questions and ends with a 35-minute writing sample, which is forwarded to the designated law schools for review.
Preparing for the LSAT is required to perform well and many candidates study long hours and take preparation courses and tests. Timing is important and you should find out the deadline for LSAT scores established by each potential institution.
Bar & Character Examination
The practice of law is a professional occupation that requires licensing. As a result, candidates must complete an examination -- or several examinations -- in the state they intend to practice. Depending on the state in question, with the exception of Louisiana and Washington, candidates are required to successfully complete the 6-hour Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Furthermore, some states require the completion of the 3-hour Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) in addition to the MBE. Candidates must submit an application to complete the examination and pay the required fee.
The Character and Fitness Investigation -- performed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners -- involves an extensive and intrusive background investigation that examines criminal and credit history, motor vehicle violations, medical records and psychological stability.
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