Is Law School Any Good? 5 Ways You Can Be Certain

Is Law School Any Good? 5 Ways You Can Be Certain

Going to law school is a major decision. It is definitely not wise to be driven by the mainstream. It is also not intelligent to get into law school under family pressure. Undertaking a law degree is daunting and challenging. And unfortunately, it is not meant for everyone. I am not saying that students who get into law schools are more intelligent. I am just saying they are fit to study a law degree. And this depends on several factors, not just intelligence level. Before you make this major decision, you need to be absolutely sure that law school is good for you. Here are 5 ways you can be certain:

  1. Are you ready for the workload?

Studying law requires a large amount of work to be done. There is a great load of materials to be studied. Sometimes, you need to finish hundreds of pages in a night. A law degree requires three intense years of hard-work, commitment and dedication. You need to be sure that you are ready.

  1. Do you want to become a lawyer for the money?

Many prospective students get into law schools due to misconception. This misconception is that lawyers earn big. Undoubtedly, some lawyers earn really well. However, going to law school does not guarantee a good job after graduation. It would be wise to base your decision according to salary prospects. Another worry is that you might not like the job despite earning a high salary.

  1. Do you have the required grades?

Admission into law schools is tough. Many critics disagree that grades should be used as an indicator of performance. However, law schools definitely look at grades being giving admission. If you are not achieving good grades yet, it is unlikely you will start doing do at a law school. Test scores such as LSAT are taken very seriously. These indicate your level of logical thinking, reading comprehensions and problem spotting. Law schools stand firmly by these grades.

  1. Do you have previous experience in the legal field?

Hands-on experience is the best way to be certain that law is the right profession for you. Past internships or placement with a law firm is a good determining factor. If you enjoyed your time there, you will probably enjoy being a lawyer. If you found the work too overwhelming, think again about your decision.

  1. Are you willing to work long hours?

Lawyers have significant time commitments. Even the most successful lawyers sometimes end up working 40 hours a week. If you are a sociable person with many other interests and projects in mind, the law is not the right profession. Lawyers do have time for hobbies and other recreation. However, they cannot commit to other projects. Exemplary results are expected from lawyers. These require extra time and long hours.

The Verdict

Being a lawyer is a personally fulfilling job. However, it takes much hard work, dedication and commitment. Only get into a law school if you understand the implications. And only if you feel it is the right fit for you.