8 answers
olivia
Student
La Grange, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
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What minor in college would be beneficial if I am interested in civil law ?
I’m going to be a senior at the end of the summer and i need to have everything planned out before i go to college. I have been interested in civil law since about 8th grade. what minor would help prepare me for law school and the field i want to get into in general?
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8 answers
Richard A. (Tony) Eckel
49
Answers
Updated
Richard A. (Tony)’s Answer
Olivia,
You don't need a "minor" and I would argue against "Pre-Law" (generally "Criminal Justice") as too narrowly focused on policing, rather than law.
Invest in a high-end liberal arts education that includes US Political history, writing, and language.
History: to understand the importance of the environment that formed the law, as well as deep appreciation of the commercial forces involved.
Writing: because it is the force that you will bring to bear in your profession - Learn to write quickly and competently so that it is second nature to transfer arguments in law to words on a page (and insert the citations as well).
Language: to allow you to rapidly decode and identify inconsistencies in writing - spotting and decomposing a fallacy - identifying missing elements of an argument - detecting weakness in your own arguments - recognizing what is not said and why.
Which brings us to the second level: Understanding people and their motivations. Law is all about the motivations of people in dispute. In this area, seek out introductory coursework in psychology of people, negotiation, and philosophy of religion. These will help you understand people, motivations, and manipulative actions in individuals and society, as well as how to improve outcomes of your clients by understanding their wants and needs at a visceral level.
If you plan to be in private practice, get a basic business course as well so you will understand how to account for costs and pay the bills. Even if you don't go into private practice, it will provide understanding of financial motivations and actions in the commercial space.
All of this will hopefully prepare you for the LSAT and the next challenge/phase: Law School
Bottom line: get the basic tools and learn how to use them effectively in an undergrad situation so that you don't have to learn them in law school. While honing those skills, learn about the environment of the law, which is people, society, and money. This will allow you to excel in the study of law.
Iustitia est elusiva pro ignorantibus
As a last note, try to find a lawyer in general private practice who you can intern with as an undergrad. This will be difficult, and you may have to do a lot of "Fetch and Carry". You may not be paid at all; they generally don't have funds to spare on internships. But the insights you will mine from the experience are solid gold.
Good luck.
Tony
You don't need a "minor" and I would argue against "Pre-Law" (generally "Criminal Justice") as too narrowly focused on policing, rather than law.
Invest in a high-end liberal arts education that includes US Political history, writing, and language.
History: to understand the importance of the environment that formed the law, as well as deep appreciation of the commercial forces involved.
Writing: because it is the force that you will bring to bear in your profession - Learn to write quickly and competently so that it is second nature to transfer arguments in law to words on a page (and insert the citations as well).
Language: to allow you to rapidly decode and identify inconsistencies in writing - spotting and decomposing a fallacy - identifying missing elements of an argument - detecting weakness in your own arguments - recognizing what is not said and why.
Which brings us to the second level: Understanding people and their motivations. Law is all about the motivations of people in dispute. In this area, seek out introductory coursework in psychology of people, negotiation, and philosophy of religion. These will help you understand people, motivations, and manipulative actions in individuals and society, as well as how to improve outcomes of your clients by understanding their wants and needs at a visceral level.
If you plan to be in private practice, get a basic business course as well so you will understand how to account for costs and pay the bills. Even if you don't go into private practice, it will provide understanding of financial motivations and actions in the commercial space.
All of this will hopefully prepare you for the LSAT and the next challenge/phase: Law School
Bottom line: get the basic tools and learn how to use them effectively in an undergrad situation so that you don't have to learn them in law school. While honing those skills, learn about the environment of the law, which is people, society, and money. This will allow you to excel in the study of law.
Iustitia est elusiva pro ignorantibus
As a last note, try to find a lawyer in general private practice who you can intern with as an undergrad. This will be difficult, and you may have to do a lot of "Fetch and Carry". You may not be paid at all; they generally don't have funds to spare on internships. But the insights you will mine from the experience are solid gold.
Good luck.
Tony
Tony, I love this answer! Legal disputes absolutely revolve around people and money. Well-said! Kim
Kim Igleheart
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1831
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Olivia,
You have some great responses above. To them I would add to hone your time management and study techniques while in college, along with household management (budget, groceries, chores) and personal care (diet and exercise).
Also, it is noteworthy that MANY people who enter college determined to become a lawyer never go to law school. "Life" can happen along the way. An ill parent needing care, falling in love, etc. Because law schools accept applicants with diverse majors, my advice is to major in whatever you want to be doing if you do not go to law school. Your "Plan B." Use your electives wisely to get the best prep you can for law school. You will also have some choices in the required general coursework. So, if given a choice between Political Science and Constitutional Law, take law. Take the time to review the approved substitute courses. There are some gems. Also try to take a Logic class - usually in the Philosophy Dept.
Best of luck to you!
You have some great responses above. To them I would add to hone your time management and study techniques while in college, along with household management (budget, groceries, chores) and personal care (diet and exercise).
Also, it is noteworthy that MANY people who enter college determined to become a lawyer never go to law school. "Life" can happen along the way. An ill parent needing care, falling in love, etc. Because law schools accept applicants with diverse majors, my advice is to major in whatever you want to be doing if you do not go to law school. Your "Plan B." Use your electives wisely to get the best prep you can for law school. You will also have some choices in the required general coursework. So, if given a choice between Political Science and Constitutional Law, take law. Take the time to review the approved substitute courses. There are some gems. Also try to take a Logic class - usually in the Philosophy Dept.
Best of luck to you!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Olivia !
Congratulations on being a rising Senior in High School ! It's great that you recognize the plans you should make now, but keep in mind that you do not want to over-plan as the path to become an Attorney is actually quite simple as far as the education.
Keep in mind that you can get into Law School with any Major and that being said, you do not have to Minor in anything. A Minor is optional and not required for Law School. Also keep in mind, even though students can Major in anything and still go to Law School, it will be valuable for you to Major in something connected to Law while you are in college for your Bachelors Degree. I recommend Majoring in Law, Government or Political Science - whichever your college offers as a Major. You can read what Majors are offered at your college's website. I wouldn't recommend Minoring because you'd benefit more from Majoring and then taking helpful electives as well as gearing your Required General Education courses that can help you as an attorney. Some of these electives or GE Requirement courses can be something like Public Speaking, English Composition, courses that refine your presentation and communication skills.
It may be important right now that you look at being an Attorney as the career and you can eventually specialize in Civil Law later on in Law School. You will need an overall education for law for now, covering Laws about everything. You can look up your local, state, city and Federal Laws and read about Civil Law for now, but think of Law being the Career and Civil Law being the type of clients you'd have. You are going to need to know how to represent a variety of types of cases in Law School and thereafter.
So, instead of planning a Minor for college, think about running for student council office for your Senior year in 12th grade. That would help you get used to a leadership role. See if your high school offers students to do simulated trials and participate in that and/or the Debate Team. This will sharpen the skills you need to be an attorney and make college and Law School go smoothly for you. Also think about volunteering at one of your local politicians or attorney's offices. You most likely will have opportunities once you are in college. These opportunities will unfold naturally while you are in college so there's no need to plan out every minute detail. Let the college show you what they offer.
To figure this all out most effectively, read your college's website and read what Majors they offer that come closest to Law, like Government or Political Science. Don't focus on your specialty right now, read books on civil law, yes, but focus on your Major. Coming out of Law School, you will be able to be a Civil Law Attorney - it's a process so let it flow step by step.
I hope this help and is something to think about. I wish you all the best moving forward !
Congratulations on being a rising Senior in High School ! It's great that you recognize the plans you should make now, but keep in mind that you do not want to over-plan as the path to become an Attorney is actually quite simple as far as the education.
Keep in mind that you can get into Law School with any Major and that being said, you do not have to Minor in anything. A Minor is optional and not required for Law School. Also keep in mind, even though students can Major in anything and still go to Law School, it will be valuable for you to Major in something connected to Law while you are in college for your Bachelors Degree. I recommend Majoring in Law, Government or Political Science - whichever your college offers as a Major. You can read what Majors are offered at your college's website. I wouldn't recommend Minoring because you'd benefit more from Majoring and then taking helpful electives as well as gearing your Required General Education courses that can help you as an attorney. Some of these electives or GE Requirement courses can be something like Public Speaking, English Composition, courses that refine your presentation and communication skills.
It may be important right now that you look at being an Attorney as the career and you can eventually specialize in Civil Law later on in Law School. You will need an overall education for law for now, covering Laws about everything. You can look up your local, state, city and Federal Laws and read about Civil Law for now, but think of Law being the Career and Civil Law being the type of clients you'd have. You are going to need to know how to represent a variety of types of cases in Law School and thereafter.
So, instead of planning a Minor for college, think about running for student council office for your Senior year in 12th grade. That would help you get used to a leadership role. See if your high school offers students to do simulated trials and participate in that and/or the Debate Team. This will sharpen the skills you need to be an attorney and make college and Law School go smoothly for you. Also think about volunteering at one of your local politicians or attorney's offices. You most likely will have opportunities once you are in college. These opportunities will unfold naturally while you are in college so there's no need to plan out every minute detail. Let the college show you what they offer.
To figure this all out most effectively, read your college's website and read what Majors they offer that come closest to Law, like Government or Political Science. Don't focus on your specialty right now, read books on civil law, yes, but focus on your Major. Coming out of Law School, you will be able to be a Civil Law Attorney - it's a process so let it flow step by step.
I hope this help and is something to think about. I wish you all the best moving forward !
Jane Doe
20
Answers
Hoboken, New Jersey
Updated
Jane’s Answer
Hi Olivia! It's great that you're planning ahead with a minor to support your interest in civil law. The best minors for preparing for law school and a career in civil law are those that help you develop strong critical thinking, writing, and reasoning skills. Political science or government are popular choices because they help you understand how laws are made and how legal systems work, which is useful in any area of civil law. Philosophy is another good option, as it helps you build clear arguments and think about ethical questions—important skills in law school and legal practice.
If you're interested in family law or civil rights, minors like sociology or psychology can provide valuable insights into people and social systems. If you're considering business-related civil law, like contracts or real estate, a minor in business or economics could be beneficial. Also, consider English or any writing-focused minor, as law involves a lot of writing. Being able to analyze complex texts and communicate clearly is a big advantage. Ultimately, choose something that truly interests you and challenges you to think critically. Law schools value those skills and your commitment more than any specific minor. Good luck!
If you're interested in family law or civil rights, minors like sociology or psychology can provide valuable insights into people and social systems. If you're considering business-related civil law, like contracts or real estate, a minor in business or economics could be beneficial. Also, consider English or any writing-focused minor, as law involves a lot of writing. Being able to analyze complex texts and communicate clearly is a big advantage. Ultimately, choose something that truly interests you and challenges you to think critically. Law schools value those skills and your commitment more than any specific minor. Good luck!
Amber Lee
Tax Associate
84
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
I think everyone here has given excellent responses. I would just emphasize that law schools do not require any specific undergraduate majors or minors; you can study anything as long as you can demonstrate your reading, writing, and reasoning skills through the LSAT and your personal statement as part of your law school application. I speak from experience: as a law student, I encountered folks from various backgrounds in my class--there were a handful of engineering majors, some former teachers, a math major, and surprisingly a music major. I myself was an art major. Though a lot of my peers came from non-legal/pre-law background, they were still stellar law students who went on to have careers at prestigious law firms and the federal court system.
Also, most of us went into law school with a rough idea of which area of the law we wanted to practice in, but a large number of us ended up doing something completely different after graduating. The reason is that first-year law students typically do not have a good sense of what career options are available to them, which is why it's crucial for them to explore internship opportunities during law school. Second and third-year law students also have the opportunity to take electives, which is an excellent way to get a flavor of the different areas of the law before committing themselves to a deeper study of a specific area. Your career trajectory would also depend on the job market--sometimes there's just less demand for a specific practice area and more in another, so you might have to pivot and secure a position in a practice area you're not necessarily familiar with and learn on the job.
Good luck!
I think everyone here has given excellent responses. I would just emphasize that law schools do not require any specific undergraduate majors or minors; you can study anything as long as you can demonstrate your reading, writing, and reasoning skills through the LSAT and your personal statement as part of your law school application. I speak from experience: as a law student, I encountered folks from various backgrounds in my class--there were a handful of engineering majors, some former teachers, a math major, and surprisingly a music major. I myself was an art major. Though a lot of my peers came from non-legal/pre-law background, they were still stellar law students who went on to have careers at prestigious law firms and the federal court system.
Also, most of us went into law school with a rough idea of which area of the law we wanted to practice in, but a large number of us ended up doing something completely different after graduating. The reason is that first-year law students typically do not have a good sense of what career options are available to them, which is why it's crucial for them to explore internship opportunities during law school. Second and third-year law students also have the opportunity to take electives, which is an excellent way to get a flavor of the different areas of the law before committing themselves to a deeper study of a specific area. Your career trajectory would also depend on the job market--sometimes there's just less demand for a specific practice area and more in another, so you might have to pivot and secure a position in a practice area you're not necessarily familiar with and learn on the job.
Good luck!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
To become a lawyer in the US, you first earn a bachelors degree in any subject. You then take the LSAT and apply to law school to obtain the graduate degree. You can practice as a lawyer after you pass the bar exam in the state you want to practice in.
So, right now, you need to decide what to major in for your undergraduate degree. Don't worry about a minor (unless you really want one). It's not necessary. You can major in anything you are interested in, but many students take political science or government. There are also a few undergraduate programs in legal studies.
There is no need for you to specialize in law or a particular area of law during undergraduate. Rather focus on developing the skills you'll need as a lawyer. As a lawyer you'll read a lot, write a lot and talk a lot. You need to be able to build a logical argument and pick apart others' arguments. The LSAT tests logical reasoning, reading comprehension and writing. It's skills based, not based on memorizing facts. So, you need to build those skills. Any major that develops logical thinking, presentation skills, reading and writing skills will be beneficial. Political science is fine, philosophy can be really useful or media and communication. If your school or undergraduate university has any debate teams, Model UN, or any clubs that advocate for certain issues can also help.
Also consider that you might change your mind about law school or you might not get in. Your bachelors is your fallback career. Pick something that you really like and can build a career on.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
To become a lawyer in the US, you first earn a bachelors degree in any subject. You then take the LSAT and apply to law school to obtain the graduate degree. You can practice as a lawyer after you pass the bar exam in the state you want to practice in.
So, right now, you need to decide what to major in for your undergraduate degree. Don't worry about a minor (unless you really want one). It's not necessary. You can major in anything you are interested in, but many students take political science or government. There are also a few undergraduate programs in legal studies.
There is no need for you to specialize in law or a particular area of law during undergraduate. Rather focus on developing the skills you'll need as a lawyer. As a lawyer you'll read a lot, write a lot and talk a lot. You need to be able to build a logical argument and pick apart others' arguments. The LSAT tests logical reasoning, reading comprehension and writing. It's skills based, not based on memorizing facts. So, you need to build those skills. Any major that develops logical thinking, presentation skills, reading and writing skills will be beneficial. Political science is fine, philosophy can be really useful or media and communication. If your school or undergraduate university has any debate teams, Model UN, or any clubs that advocate for certain issues can also help.
Also consider that you might change your mind about law school or you might not get in. Your bachelors is your fallback career. Pick something that you really like and can build a career on.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Wendi Wade
Attorney
9
Answers
Caledonia, Illinois
Updated
Wendi’s Answer
Business. Strong business acumen will put you ahead of the pack and assist in development of skills as a business partner. Law and business are closely intertwined, though many lawyers do not realize this until after they land that first job as a licensed attorney.
Alexandra Grashkina-Hristov
International Tax Professional
188
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about how to prepare for law school and a career in civil law. When it comes to choosing a minor, it’s important to know that a minor isn’t critical for law school admission, but it can definitely complement your interests and help you build useful skills.
For civil law, minors in social studies fields like history or anthropology can be really beneficial because they help you understand how societies and legal systems have evolved, which often comes up in civil cases. Studying another language, such as Spanish, is also a smart choice, especially as it can open doors to working with a broader range of clients.
If you’re leaning toward a specific area like intellectual property law, you might consider a science minor such as chemistry, biology, or computer science to strengthen your background.
Another good minor would be economics, finance or business because it will support growing your quantitive skills and prepare you for a business environment.
Overall, pick a minor that interests you and will help you develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills—these are essential in any legal career!
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about how to prepare for law school and a career in civil law. When it comes to choosing a minor, it’s important to know that a minor isn’t critical for law school admission, but it can definitely complement your interests and help you build useful skills.
For civil law, minors in social studies fields like history or anthropology can be really beneficial because they help you understand how societies and legal systems have evolved, which often comes up in civil cases. Studying another language, such as Spanish, is also a smart choice, especially as it can open doors to working with a broader range of clients.
If you’re leaning toward a specific area like intellectual property law, you might consider a science minor such as chemistry, biology, or computer science to strengthen your background.
Another good minor would be economics, finance or business because it will support growing your quantitive skills and prepare you for a business environment.
Overall, pick a minor that interests you and will help you develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills—these are essential in any legal career!