How To Become A Lawyer

If you want to practice law in the US, you need to know how to become a lawyer. There are numerous steps you need to follow, so make sure you understand each of the steps along the process. Knowing how to become a lawyer involves completing each of these steps, so you can be sworn in and begin to defend clients.

1. The first step in how to become a lawyer is to get a four-year Bachelor's Degree. While you can major in pre-law or a related discipline, you can gain admission to law school with a four year degree from any accredited college. Students commonly apply to law school with a degree in English or History, or even a degree in a science-related field (which can be helpful if you aspire to become a patent attorney).
2. After you have a Bachelor's Degree, you need to take your LSAT. The LSAT is a law school admissions test, much as the SAT is an aptitude test designed to test your ability to get into college. The LSAT tests your ability to complete reading comprehension questions, as well as to successfully answer logical reasoning questions. It is scored on a scale of 180 points and is administered four times annually.
   
3. You can then apply to law school. Aim to apply for an ABA approved law school, as this makes it easier to become a lawyer. You can attend a non-ABA approved law school and still be eligible to take the Bar Exam, but additional exams and testing will be required. Admission to an ABA approved law school is granted based on your college GPA, your LSAT scores, a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
4. Law school is a three year program if you attend full time. During this period, you will take some basic courses that teach you the foundations of the law. These courses include criminal courses, courses in civil procedure (the rules of the court) and courses in property law. You can also take elective courses and focus on a certain area of law if you want. During law school, you are required to complete a course in legal ethics before you graduate.
   
5. Upon graduation, you must take the bar in the state that you wish to practice. The Bar Exam is a state-specific test that evaluates your understanding of the law so you can learn how to become a lawyer. It is a closed book exam that consists of multiple choice and essay questions. A passing score is required. You will also need to pass an exam, called the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam, which tests your knowledge of legal and ethical rules.

Upon successfully passing the Bar exam, you can be sworn in and become a lawyer. These are the steps everyone must follow to learn how to become a lawyer.