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What do you learn in law school?
I'm currently set on pursuing law. What are some important things I should realize about this career pathway and law school?
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7 answers
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Dr’s Answer
Heyo Zori,
Well I gotta say it is a ride 👀.. Law school isn’t just about memorizing laws—it’s about learning to think like a lawyer. Imagine training your brain to analyze, argue, and problem-solve at a whole new level. It’s intense, challenging, and sometimes frustrating, but if you love solving puzzles, making strong arguments, and diving deep into issues, you’ll thrive.
What You’ll Learn in Law School 🤓🥸
1. How to Read & Interpret Laws – You’ll learn how laws are written, what they mean, and how they apply in different situations. You’ll dissect cases like a detective, finding key details others might miss.
2. Legal Research & Writing – Get ready to read a lot and write even more. You’ll craft arguments, draft legal documents, and learn how to present your case persuasively. Precision is key.
3. How to Argue Like a Pro – Law school teaches you to think critically, challenge assumptions, and build airtight arguments. Debating becomes second nature.
4. Different Areas of Law – Criminal law, contract law, constitutional law, business law—you’ll explore them all before choosing a specialization.
5. How to Think Under Pressure – Cold calls (where professors randomly ask students tough questions) can be nerve-wracking, but they prepare you for the fast-paced world of law.
Now I am gonna tell you... What You Should Know Before You Start if you are planning to 🤔 why?... Uhhhh well you gotta know😎
It’s a Mental Workout – Law school challenges the way you think. At first, it might feel overwhelming, but over time, you’ll develop razor-sharp analytical skills.
Your Writing Will Change Forever – You’ll learn to be clear, precise, and persuasive. Get ready to edit and rewrite a lot.
It’s Competitive, But You’ll Find Your Tribe – Some people aim for top law firms, others for public service, and some for niche specialties. Find what drives you, and surround yourself with supportive peers.
Internships & Networking Matter – Success in law isn’t just about grades. Internships, mentorships, and networking are key to landing great opportunities.
It’s Not Just About Courtrooms – Many lawyers never step into a courtroom. There are countless career paths in law, from corporate advising to human rights work.
If you’re passionate about law, you got this. It’s a journey of growth, challenge, and discovery, and it’ll shape the way you see the world forever. Hope this helped clear things up, good luck! 😇
Start Reading & Writing Now – Strong writing and critical thinking skills will give you a head start. Try reading court opinions or legal articles.
Join Mock Trial or Debate Clubs – Practicing argumentation now will help you later.
Talk to Lawyers & Law Students – Ask them about their experiences and what they wish they knew before starting.
Explore Different Fields of Law – Law isn’t just one path—research different specializations to find what excites you.
Build Resilience – Law school is tough, but so is being a great lawyer. Develop strong study habits, manage stress, and stay adaptable.
Well I gotta say it is a ride 👀.. Law school isn’t just about memorizing laws—it’s about learning to think like a lawyer. Imagine training your brain to analyze, argue, and problem-solve at a whole new level. It’s intense, challenging, and sometimes frustrating, but if you love solving puzzles, making strong arguments, and diving deep into issues, you’ll thrive.
What You’ll Learn in Law School 🤓🥸
1. How to Read & Interpret Laws – You’ll learn how laws are written, what they mean, and how they apply in different situations. You’ll dissect cases like a detective, finding key details others might miss.
2. Legal Research & Writing – Get ready to read a lot and write even more. You’ll craft arguments, draft legal documents, and learn how to present your case persuasively. Precision is key.
3. How to Argue Like a Pro – Law school teaches you to think critically, challenge assumptions, and build airtight arguments. Debating becomes second nature.
4. Different Areas of Law – Criminal law, contract law, constitutional law, business law—you’ll explore them all before choosing a specialization.
5. How to Think Under Pressure – Cold calls (where professors randomly ask students tough questions) can be nerve-wracking, but they prepare you for the fast-paced world of law.
Now I am gonna tell you... What You Should Know Before You Start if you are planning to 🤔 why?... Uhhhh well you gotta know😎
It’s a Mental Workout – Law school challenges the way you think. At first, it might feel overwhelming, but over time, you’ll develop razor-sharp analytical skills.
Your Writing Will Change Forever – You’ll learn to be clear, precise, and persuasive. Get ready to edit and rewrite a lot.
It’s Competitive, But You’ll Find Your Tribe – Some people aim for top law firms, others for public service, and some for niche specialties. Find what drives you, and surround yourself with supportive peers.
Internships & Networking Matter – Success in law isn’t just about grades. Internships, mentorships, and networking are key to landing great opportunities.
It’s Not Just About Courtrooms – Many lawyers never step into a courtroom. There are countless career paths in law, from corporate advising to human rights work.
If you’re passionate about law, you got this. It’s a journey of growth, challenge, and discovery, and it’ll shape the way you see the world forever. Hope this helped clear things up, good luck! 😇
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Chinyere, thank you so much for your support! It truly means a lot to me. Your kindness and encouragement help make this community even more amazing. I'm so grateful to be surrounded by such wonderful people like you!
Dr H
Updated
Rosa’s Answer
I haven't been to law school myself. What I can say about going through college is that one broadens their horizons of thinking. You will learn to question things . You will learn to accept that you are wrong on some things as well as feel that you are right on some things more than you have the right to. Through the process you will learn to update your beliefs based on evidence. Apart from that I believe you will learn how to construct arguments and study different types of laws to prosecute or defend fellow humans. Have a wonderful experience over there.
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
My brother is a lawyer and he says that in law school, you will embark on a rigorous academic journey that equips you with a deep understanding of the legal system, the principles of justice, and the tools necessary to navigate complex legal issues. The curriculum typically starts with foundational courses such as Constitutional Law, Contracts, Torts, Civil Procedure, Criminal Law, and Legal Writing. These subjects will help you develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and strong communication skills. As you progress, you'll delve into specialized areas like Environmental Law, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, and Family Law, among others, depending on your interests. Law school is also designed to foster a thorough understanding of legal research and the ability to apply the law to real-world situations through case studies and simulations.
However, it’s important to realize that law school is not just about absorbing legal principles. It is about cultivating a mindset that is methodical, detail-oriented, and able to view problems from multiple perspectives. Expect to engage in intense reading and writing, as much of the work requires you to interpret case law and legal texts critically and creatively. The Socratic method, commonly used in law schools, can be challenging at first, but it is designed to sharpen your ability to think on your feet and defend your position, even in the face of tough questions.
As you pursue a career in law, it’s essential to understand that law school is only the beginning. Legal education prepares you for a wide range of career options, including becoming a practicing attorney, but it also opens doors to opportunities in business, politics, academia, and public policy. The legal profession can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires long hours, dedication, and a strong ethical framework. It's crucial to understand the emotional and mental resilience needed to manage the pressures of client expectations, deadlines, and the adversarial nature of legal proceedings. Networking is another key aspect of law school and the legal field; building connections with professors, peers, and professionals can have a profound impact on your future career.
Ultimately, pursuing law is a path that demands both intellectual discipline and a genuine passion for advocating for justice and change. The experience will challenge you in ways that will transform your thinking, but it will also offer you the opportunity to influence society meaningfully and create a lasting impact. As you move forward, maintain a balance between academic rigor and practical application, and remember that law school is just the start of an exciting, dynamic career.
However, it’s important to realize that law school is not just about absorbing legal principles. It is about cultivating a mindset that is methodical, detail-oriented, and able to view problems from multiple perspectives. Expect to engage in intense reading and writing, as much of the work requires you to interpret case law and legal texts critically and creatively. The Socratic method, commonly used in law schools, can be challenging at first, but it is designed to sharpen your ability to think on your feet and defend your position, even in the face of tough questions.
As you pursue a career in law, it’s essential to understand that law school is only the beginning. Legal education prepares you for a wide range of career options, including becoming a practicing attorney, but it also opens doors to opportunities in business, politics, academia, and public policy. The legal profession can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires long hours, dedication, and a strong ethical framework. It's crucial to understand the emotional and mental resilience needed to manage the pressures of client expectations, deadlines, and the adversarial nature of legal proceedings. Networking is another key aspect of law school and the legal field; building connections with professors, peers, and professionals can have a profound impact on your future career.
Ultimately, pursuing law is a path that demands both intellectual discipline and a genuine passion for advocating for justice and change. The experience will challenge you in ways that will transform your thinking, but it will also offer you the opportunity to influence society meaningfully and create a lasting impact. As you move forward, maintain a balance between academic rigor and practical application, and remember that law school is just the start of an exciting, dynamic career.
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi Zori,
Pursuing a career in law is truly exciting and opens up countless opportunities for you to discover your passion. I graduated from law school about seven years ago and have explored various roles since then, mostly in the corporate sector. Here are a few tips I've gathered along the way that might help you!
1. Law school teaches you to think like a lawyer. While most classes don't focus directly on practicing law, especially in the corporate world, they do train you to spot issues, think critically, and find creative solutions. Exams are mainly essays that test how you identify and handle issues. I use these skills every day. Whether it's a new product launch, a last-minute contract review, or a new process, issue spotting is key to being an effective lawyer.
2. I sought out practical classes and opportunities in law school, like contract drafting and legal writing. I wanted hands-on experience, so I used my summers to work in different legal areas, such as government, law firms, and education. The best decision I made was joining a clinic. My school offered clinics in various law fields, and I joined a start-up and entrepreneurial clinic. Advising start-ups on corporate governance, intellectual property, and regulations gave me real-world experience. No matter your interest, I highly recommend seeking practical experience during law school.
3. The first year can be challenging as it's a new way of learning. It took me months to find my study schedule, manage the reading, take effective notes, and prepare for cold calls, all while engaging in social events and networking. During this transition, it's important to know your priorities and what works for you. Learn from others, but remember that only you know what suits you best. Once you get through the first year, you can tailor your education to your interests.
4. When looking at law schools, consider the programs and classes they offer, their bar passage rates, employment after graduation, and their student culture. It's a demanding three years, so ensuring the school is the right fit is crucial to reaching your goals.
Wishing you all the best on this journey! It's challenging, but totally worth it! Feel free to ask any follow-up questions :)
Pursuing a career in law is truly exciting and opens up countless opportunities for you to discover your passion. I graduated from law school about seven years ago and have explored various roles since then, mostly in the corporate sector. Here are a few tips I've gathered along the way that might help you!
1. Law school teaches you to think like a lawyer. While most classes don't focus directly on practicing law, especially in the corporate world, they do train you to spot issues, think critically, and find creative solutions. Exams are mainly essays that test how you identify and handle issues. I use these skills every day. Whether it's a new product launch, a last-minute contract review, or a new process, issue spotting is key to being an effective lawyer.
2. I sought out practical classes and opportunities in law school, like contract drafting and legal writing. I wanted hands-on experience, so I used my summers to work in different legal areas, such as government, law firms, and education. The best decision I made was joining a clinic. My school offered clinics in various law fields, and I joined a start-up and entrepreneurial clinic. Advising start-ups on corporate governance, intellectual property, and regulations gave me real-world experience. No matter your interest, I highly recommend seeking practical experience during law school.
3. The first year can be challenging as it's a new way of learning. It took me months to find my study schedule, manage the reading, take effective notes, and prepare for cold calls, all while engaging in social events and networking. During this transition, it's important to know your priorities and what works for you. Learn from others, but remember that only you know what suits you best. Once you get through the first year, you can tailor your education to your interests.
4. When looking at law schools, consider the programs and classes they offer, their bar passage rates, employment after graduation, and their student culture. It's a demanding three years, so ensuring the school is the right fit is crucial to reaching your goals.
Wishing you all the best on this journey! It's challenging, but totally worth it! Feel free to ask any follow-up questions :)
Updated
Terri’s Answer
Hi, Zoe,
I assume you are currently in high school—it is great that you are thinking ahead! If you're thinking about a career in law, your first step is to get your undergraduate degree. You can choose any major you like and still aim for a career in law, so don't feel like you have to pick something “traditional” like political science or history. What's really important is taking courses that help you think clearly and write well. Classes like seminars are great for this. Also, try to take different types of classes to develope various ways of thinking. Law school is about learning to think like a lawyer, which means understanding different arguments and perspectives to best represent your client's interests. Make sure to enjoy activities outside of class too, as they give you a broader view of the world.
When you're ready to move from undergrad to law school, take the time to visit schools, chat with current students, and if you can, sit in on a class. While many people focus on a school's ranking, there's a lot more to consider! Current students can share why they chose their school and what they like or don't like about it. Visiting the campus and attending classes can help you see if you'd feel comfortable there.
Good luck with everything ahead!
I assume you are currently in high school—it is great that you are thinking ahead! If you're thinking about a career in law, your first step is to get your undergraduate degree. You can choose any major you like and still aim for a career in law, so don't feel like you have to pick something “traditional” like political science or history. What's really important is taking courses that help you think clearly and write well. Classes like seminars are great for this. Also, try to take different types of classes to develope various ways of thinking. Law school is about learning to think like a lawyer, which means understanding different arguments and perspectives to best represent your client's interests. Make sure to enjoy activities outside of class too, as they give you a broader view of the world.
When you're ready to move from undergrad to law school, take the time to visit schools, chat with current students, and if you can, sit in on a class. While many people focus on a school's ranking, there's a lot more to consider! Current students can share why they chose their school and what they like or don't like about it. Visiting the campus and attending classes can help you see if you'd feel comfortable there.
Good luck with everything ahead!
Updated
Seana Lee’s Answer
In law school, I learned how to think. How to approach an issue, how to research, how to express myself. I also learned how to study effectively and how to listen to others and different points of view. I learned about the world, civil rights, politics, history and psychology. I learned how to write effectively and efficiently. I learned that I can survive and even thrive under pressure. I learned about the difficult issues that our country, economy, justice system and business face. I also learned about resiliency and how to focus. I learned how to find confidence in myself and how to be empathetic to the struggles of others. Law School is an amazing experience. Good luck!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
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Answers
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Zori,
That's an exciting decision! Law school is an intense but rewarding journey that shapes not just your knowledge, but also your critical thinking and analytical skills. You'll explore areas like constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, property law, and civil procedure. Beyond learning about laws themselves, you'll be trained to think like a lawyer, i.e. analyzing complex situations, solving problems creatively, and advocating persuasively. Research and writing play a huge role too, as you'll draft legal arguments and explore case law in detail.
Law school isn't just about academics; it’s a transformative process. You’ll realize that the study of law is as much about understanding people, society, and justice as it is about statutes and courtrooms. It’s important to be adaptable and resilient because the workload can be heavy, and the material challenging. That said, it's an incredible opportunity to develop skills like public speaking, negotiation, and leadership that will serve you far beyond the legal field.
One thing to keep in mind is that the law profession requires a deep sense of ethics and responsibility. Your career will impact real lives, so it's essential to approach it with integrity and compassion. Be open to mentorship, build a strong network, and take care of your mental health along the way. Do not forget, it's a marathon, not a sprint, and each step will prepare you for an impactful career.
Best wishes!
That's an exciting decision! Law school is an intense but rewarding journey that shapes not just your knowledge, but also your critical thinking and analytical skills. You'll explore areas like constitutional law, contracts, criminal law, property law, and civil procedure. Beyond learning about laws themselves, you'll be trained to think like a lawyer, i.e. analyzing complex situations, solving problems creatively, and advocating persuasively. Research and writing play a huge role too, as you'll draft legal arguments and explore case law in detail.
Law school isn't just about academics; it’s a transformative process. You’ll realize that the study of law is as much about understanding people, society, and justice as it is about statutes and courtrooms. It’s important to be adaptable and resilient because the workload can be heavy, and the material challenging. That said, it's an incredible opportunity to develop skills like public speaking, negotiation, and leadership that will serve you far beyond the legal field.
One thing to keep in mind is that the law profession requires a deep sense of ethics and responsibility. Your career will impact real lives, so it's essential to approach it with integrity and compassion. Be open to mentorship, build a strong network, and take care of your mental health along the way. Do not forget, it's a marathon, not a sprint, and each step will prepare you for an impactful career.
Best wishes!