to qualify for the bar examination in most states. 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Learn about the education and preparation needed to become a lawyer. Each state has its own bar association, so you must pass in the state in which you want to practice. Can You Become a Lawyer Without Going to Law School? Education Requirements for Becoming a Lawyer. What education is needed to become a lawyer? Law school students typically study for three years and earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) These roles require lawyers to have extensive training in legal procedure, writing, and research. The LSAT is a difficult test which is usually a major step toward completing the education required to become a lawyer. Students may also use these classes to strengthen critical thinking skills and prepare for the LSAT, the test used by law schools in accepting applicants. Students must be at least 14 years old and have completed the 8th grade. Most law professors have the distinction of having earned doctorates of judicial science. The Balance Careers uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Depending on the jurisdiction, the bar exam may consist of several different tests, such as the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE). Learn about the education and preparation needed to become a lawyer. The reading comprehension section has four sets of reading questions which test the test-taker's ability to quickly read, understand, and answer questions about a passage. Courses in political science and English may help students advance these skills and provide a medium for presenting facts and arguing positions. It includes five multiple-choice sections as well as an unscored writing test. Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED. Many law students apply for these positions as undergraduates. The logical reasoning sections tests one's ability to analyze arguments and conduct critical thinking. There are four main sections to the LSAT: The first three sections are taken as multiple-choice tests, and those taking the test have 35 minutes to complete these sections. Students may also apply for externships that allow them to observe and participate in daily legal procedures. The listings below may include sponsored content but are popular choices among our users. is the most common law degree, but you might also want to pursue a master of law degree or doctor of judicial science degree depending on your aspirations. Find Schools. Learn about the necessary degrees, job duties and licensure requirements to see... Securities lawyers require a significant amount of formal education. Also called attorneys, lawyers may advocate for their clients and defend them in court. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates a 4% job growth for lawyers in the years 2019-2029. Undergraduate students who are enrolled in a pre-law program or are otherwise planning to enter law school spend a significant amount of time studying and preparing for the LSAT. Additionally, most programs offer law clinics in a particular field, such as environmental law, in which students work with attorneys to research precedents and meet with clients. What is your highest level of education completed? Most states also require lawyers to take an ethics examination, the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE), as well.