Appellate attorneys challenge unjust decisions.
Appellate attorneys work for either the prosecution or the defense and appeal trial court decisions. Primarily using written briefs, they present the appeal before a multijudge appellate panel rather than a jury. Appellate law is an important part of the U.S. legal system because it provides a check on the power of the courts, and the U.S. constitution guarantees the right to appeal. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job competition for new graduates is fierce but worth it -- the median salary of law school graduates is $68,500 nine months after graduation.
Instructions
1. Earn a bachelor's degree. Since there's no "prelaw" degree, focus on a major that helps you hone your communication, critical thinking and research skills. Also try to take diverse classes -- such as philosophy, economics and English -- so that you widen your skill set.
2. Take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). Your score on this half-day standardized test is a factor in whether you're accepted to law school. The Law School Admission Council administers the LSAT four times a year and recommends that you test by December in order to enroll in law school in the fall.
3. Apply to law school. To choose the right school, you'll need to consider location, tuition, size, reputation and specialties. Ann K. Levine, Esq., a law school admission consultant writing for U.S. News and World Report, advises applicants to attend a law school recruiting fair to learn more about schools and personally introduce themselves to admissions personnel. Talk to the recruiters about your interest in appellate law.
4. Go to law school. Students with good grades in law school tend to earn higher salaries upon graduating. Study diligently, don't skip class and do your best on exams. If all goes well, you'll graduate in three years with a juris doctor (J.D.).
5. Take your state's bar exam. Passing this test will allow you to practice law in that state. Each state is different, and some states require an additional ethics test or practice test. Contact the American Bar Association to find out your state's requirements. You don't need a special bar exam to be an appellate attorney.
6. Get a job as an attorney. You may not be able to work as an appellate attorney right away. Employers often hire new graduates as associates who work alongside more experienced lawyers. Use this time to learn from the more seasoned appellate attorneys on your team.
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