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How To Get A Law Degree Online

By: maggie eliot

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you want to get a law degree (J.D.), but don't want to go to class, you should learn about how to get a law degree online. Many adults choose distance education instead of a traditional classroom setting if they have children or a full time job, or they just learn better outside a classroom setting. It is possible to get a J.D. online, but you should know that the American Bar Association does not recognize any online law schools. If you want a high paying job or if you want to practice law in a state other than California, an online Law Degree might not be a good option for you. Here are some tips for getting a law degree online:

To get a law degree, you'll need:

  • Access to a computer
  • Access to the Internet

 

  1. Choose a Law School. It is best if you can choose a Law school that doesn't solely exist vis-a-vis the Internet. Some examples of online law schools include Taft Law School, Concord Law School and Kaplan University.
  2. Get a Bachelor's Degree. Yes, even online law schools have standards. Most (not all) online law degree granting institutions require prospective students to have completed a Bachelor's degree. All require that you have completed at least 66 term credits (the equivalent of two years of college).
  3. Make sure the Law School you choose is nationally accredited. The distance education and training council has a list of law schools that are "legitimate." You can find a list of accredited schools on their Website at detc.org. Avoid advertisements that promise a law degree in "just one week," for example.
  4. Consider moving to California. In order to become a practicing lawyer, you have to take (and pass) the bar exam. The bar exam is a comprehensive examination of everything your learned in law school; it is administered by the American Bar Association and you need to pass it to become a licensed attorney. The caveat is that California is the only state that will allow you to take the bar exam with an online law degree.
  5. Consider using your Law Degree for a different profession. Having a J.D. can enhance your reputation and it can increase your knowledge of business. Before you decide to get a law degree online, consider what you want the outcome to be.

References:

DETC 

Concord Law 

Posted on: Apr. 16, 2010