13 answers
Osiris
Student
Lancaster
1
Question
Asked
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I'm a middle schooler who really wants to be a lawyer someday,! How can I start preparing now What should I focus on in high school, and are there any cool programs or volunteer things I can do to get a head start? i'm also bilingual knowing Spanish and English . I also would like to study at UCLA. ?
any tips helpful
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13 answers
DENNIS A BREEN
Lawyer
270
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
DENNIS A’s Answer
Hi Osiris: The answers you have gotten are perfect. Only thing I'd add is just go out and be a kid! Get dirty, climb trees, play sports. have fun. Careers and jobs last a long time. Being a kid is over before you know it! An old friend once told me - go out and make good memories because they are with you forever. So go out and be a kid. Have fun, enjoy life. Make good memories. In the end that will make you a better person and a better lawyer!
Good luck!
Good luck!
I sure wish someone had told me this! I'm trying to make up for lost time, but it's hard to be a kid at 64 years old with your body falling apart. Old age creeps up fast. This is excellent advice. Kim.
Kim Igleheart
Dana Scarpati
IT Professional
6
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Dana’s Answer
Hi Osiris,
You can either buy or borrow from the library, Law related books, like the book used to study for the LSATS (Law SAT).
Then you can learn some of the terminology, definitions, & what the expectations for a lawyer in todays world. I believe education required is a 4 year degrees & then a 2-3 year law school degree. So a long journey to the finish line.
Create a roadmap for yourself with short term goals (2-5 yrs) & long term goals (5-10 yrs) to see if you really want to pursue this goal!
Best of luck!
You can either buy or borrow from the library, Law related books, like the book used to study for the LSATS (Law SAT).
Then you can learn some of the terminology, definitions, & what the expectations for a lawyer in todays world. I believe education required is a 4 year degrees & then a 2-3 year law school degree. So a long journey to the finish line.
Create a roadmap for yourself with short term goals (2-5 yrs) & long term goals (5-10 yrs) to see if you really want to pursue this goal!
Best of luck!
Maryann Vasanthakumar, J.D, M.P.H
HR Professional
10
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Maryann’s Answer
I think it's awesome that you want to become a lawyer and are already planning for it in middle school! Being bilingual in Spanish and English is a big plus in the legal field. Lawyers do a lot of reading and writing. They also need to speak clearly and argue in public. You can start practicing by joining a debate team or recording yourself explaining topics. Your language skills can be useful in areas like immigration, healthcare law, or helping Spanish-speaking clients. I suggest taking classes in writing, journalism, history, government, or debate and speech, as these will help you on your path to law school.
Lauren Kelly
Consulting
5
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Although I am not a lawyer, I have MANY lawyer friends and I went to UCLA (undergrad) and witnessed their journeys. To get into UCLA, you'll need to develop strong study habits, discipline, intellectual curiosity, and be well-rounded (in anything you like - no right answers!). The academic rigor and organizational skills needed to get into UCLA will help you tremendously with your law school journey (LSAT, actual law school, Bar exam, etc). Learn how to read critically and become a strong writer. Don't rely on AI for this - train your brain! These are skills I'm starting to see slip in my profession and will help you function and possibly stand out. At UCLA, most of my friends majored in either English, History, or Political Science and went to law school within 0 - 2 years after graduation. Many (including myself) got part time jobs at local law firms to see if they liked the work and the pace of the work. Best of luck and go Bruins!
Jamie Varkey
Engineer/Attorney/Environmental Health and Safety Consultant
4
Answers
Clermont, Florida
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Law offers many opportunities, and you can pursue different paths within it. After engineering school, I chose to go to law school. If you're in high school, concentrate on classes that improve your writing skills. Also, participate in extracurricular activities that involve public speaking and debate to gain valuable experience.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1860
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Osiris,
I would encourage you to start paying attention to detail. When you read, take the time to read the footnotes. They point you to additional resources. And, sometimes, they give you information. Such was the case with my Dad's birth certificate. He recently told me he wasn't sure his Dad was really his Dad. The birth certificate had, in tiny print, "filed in accordance with New York Statute 2305 (a)(3). (I don't recall the real number). I looked it up. It's a very specific statute for filing birth certificates when adopting a child! I still don't know who his birth Dad was, and probably never will, but, it answered the first question.
Also, take Geometry. It helps develop analytical thinking skills. Take acting. Yes, acting. You may find yourself either in a courtroom or negotiating with opposing counsel. You need to be convincing.
Develop test-taking strategies. What do you do when you run into a question you don't know? Do you save it for last or waste time on it? Do you get stressed out on tests?
Do puzzles! Keep mixing up what types you do. Train your brain.
Be around people. All types of people. It helps you to develop a sense of when they are being honest and when they are not. Don't try to psychoanalyze your friends though, or you will find yourself friend-less!
Learn now about how your body best functions. How do you prefer to study - alone or with one or more other people? What time of day works best? Sitting at a desk or stretched out on the bed? Inside or outside? Music or no music? Law school is a bear. There's no time for falling behind. Also start learning about nutrition - keeping your body fueled and hydrated, the right way, not with caffeine. Energy and stamina will help.
It's not all about academics!
As for volunteering, I'm not sure the age requirements, perhaps 16, you can volunteer at hospitals. There you will meet a wide cross section of humanity.
Good luck to you!
I would encourage you to start paying attention to detail. When you read, take the time to read the footnotes. They point you to additional resources. And, sometimes, they give you information. Such was the case with my Dad's birth certificate. He recently told me he wasn't sure his Dad was really his Dad. The birth certificate had, in tiny print, "filed in accordance with New York Statute 2305 (a)(3). (I don't recall the real number). I looked it up. It's a very specific statute for filing birth certificates when adopting a child! I still don't know who his birth Dad was, and probably never will, but, it answered the first question.
Also, take Geometry. It helps develop analytical thinking skills. Take acting. Yes, acting. You may find yourself either in a courtroom or negotiating with opposing counsel. You need to be convincing.
Develop test-taking strategies. What do you do when you run into a question you don't know? Do you save it for last or waste time on it? Do you get stressed out on tests?
Do puzzles! Keep mixing up what types you do. Train your brain.
Be around people. All types of people. It helps you to develop a sense of when they are being honest and when they are not. Don't try to psychoanalyze your friends though, or you will find yourself friend-less!
Learn now about how your body best functions. How do you prefer to study - alone or with one or more other people? What time of day works best? Sitting at a desk or stretched out on the bed? Inside or outside? Music or no music? Law school is a bear. There's no time for falling behind. Also start learning about nutrition - keeping your body fueled and hydrated, the right way, not with caffeine. Energy and stamina will help.
It's not all about academics!
As for volunteering, I'm not sure the age requirements, perhaps 16, you can volunteer at hospitals. There you will meet a wide cross section of humanity.
Good luck to you!
Meghan Meehan Whalen
Risk Management
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Meghan’s Answer
Osiris, you've already received some great advice here. I just want to add that a legal degree opens up many career paths. If you're interested in becoming a courtroom lawyer, check if your school or local clubs offer moot court programs. These are fantastic for learning what trial attorneys do. It's crucial to read, write, and stay curious, but remember Dennis's advice too—enjoy your youth. Get involved in activities with friends, play sports, and participate in community events. These experiences build important interpersonal skills that are valuable for law school and a legal career. We often overlook the skills we gain outside of the classroom.
Cecilia Alondra García Chacón
Lawyer
11
Answers
Chihuahua, Mexico
Updated
Cecilia Alondra’s Answer
Hi, Osiris!
I’m Cecilia from Mexico. I hold a Law degree, and based on my experience, here are some tips I can offer you if you want to dedicate yourself to this beautiful profession:
1. Read everything you can—novels, poetry, short stories, whatever you enjoy—but make reading a habit. If you already do read, try to increase your speed in reading, understanding, and analyzing the material.
2. Also, try your hand at writing; express your ideas and thoughts. Keep a journal or something similar. Try not to stop writing by hand; it’s good for your brain and will be essential for taking notes when necessary throughout your studies.
3. Practice typing so you can become fast on a keyboard. Sometimes we have to conduct extensive research, draft documents, or take down testimonies and statements as people narrate facts or details regarding a case. Therefore, I recommend working on your typing skills and building up your speed.
4. If your school has a debate club or something similar, join it. It will help you develop your argumentation and public speaking skills. Aside from reading and writing, knowing how to express yourself verbally—and understanding the opposing party's arguments—is absolutely fundamental.
5. I also recommend watching TV series, movies, or documentaries that focus on investigations. Aside from being really cool, they will encourage you to think about—and spot—details based on the facts or evidence presented, which helps sharpen your analytical skills.
6. Empathy: Please do not lose the ability to put yourself in another person's shoes. When you eventually represent someone, take a moment to step into their place so you can better understand their situation. Lawyers often have a reputation for being cold, superficial, and so on, but the human element is absolutely essential in this profession.
7. Listen—and I don't just mean hearing someone out simply to formulate a response. Listen with the intent to truly understand the other person or your counterpart. In this profession, a single word or expression can completely alter the meaning of everything; therefore, paying close attention to those details is incredibly important. It gives me great pleasure to know that, at your age, you already have such clear and decisive ideas about what you want to dedicate yourself to. I know you will do very well; enjoy your youth to the fullest, learn as much as you can, and I know you will make an excellent lawyer.
I wish you all the best—today and always—future colleague!
I’m Cecilia from Mexico. I hold a Law degree, and based on my experience, here are some tips I can offer you if you want to dedicate yourself to this beautiful profession:
1. Read everything you can—novels, poetry, short stories, whatever you enjoy—but make reading a habit. If you already do read, try to increase your speed in reading, understanding, and analyzing the material.
2. Also, try your hand at writing; express your ideas and thoughts. Keep a journal or something similar. Try not to stop writing by hand; it’s good for your brain and will be essential for taking notes when necessary throughout your studies.
3. Practice typing so you can become fast on a keyboard. Sometimes we have to conduct extensive research, draft documents, or take down testimonies and statements as people narrate facts or details regarding a case. Therefore, I recommend working on your typing skills and building up your speed.
4. If your school has a debate club or something similar, join it. It will help you develop your argumentation and public speaking skills. Aside from reading and writing, knowing how to express yourself verbally—and understanding the opposing party's arguments—is absolutely fundamental.
5. I also recommend watching TV series, movies, or documentaries that focus on investigations. Aside from being really cool, they will encourage you to think about—and spot—details based on the facts or evidence presented, which helps sharpen your analytical skills.
6. Empathy: Please do not lose the ability to put yourself in another person's shoes. When you eventually represent someone, take a moment to step into their place so you can better understand their situation. Lawyers often have a reputation for being cold, superficial, and so on, but the human element is absolutely essential in this profession.
7. Listen—and I don't just mean hearing someone out simply to formulate a response. Listen with the intent to truly understand the other person or your counterpart. In this profession, a single word or expression can completely alter the meaning of everything; therefore, paying close attention to those details is incredibly important. It gives me great pleasure to know that, at your age, you already have such clear and decisive ideas about what you want to dedicate yourself to. I know you will do very well; enjoy your youth to the fullest, learn as much as you can, and I know you will make an excellent lawyer.
I wish you all the best—today and always—future colleague!
Gina LeDonne
Independence Compliance Manager
7
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Gina’s Answer
Lawyers have all kinds of backgrounds--
as a middle schooler- play logic games! join youth and government or debate! and honestly, theatre. Theatre will give you so many soft skills-- public speaking, improvisation etc.
as a middle schooler- play logic games! join youth and government or debate! and honestly, theatre. Theatre will give you so many soft skills-- public speaking, improvisation etc.
Susie Ahn
Consultant
4
Answers
Morristown, New Jersey
Updated
Susie’s Answer
Osiris - It's great you're already exploring to become a lawyer. It is a very rewarding career. As a middle school student, I encourage building strong fundamentals in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Good communication skills are critical in the practice of law. Read and write as much as you can on as many topics as possible. The best lawyers I know are always curious. Spend time speaking with and listening to others in person or virtually and share your day, week or any meaningful event. Play sports! It is the best way to learn how to cooperate, be competitive and respectful and, most importantly, learn from mistakes and overcome adversity.
Yelena Mirochnik
Tax
1
Answer
Middleton, Massachusetts
Updated
Yelena’s Answer
Osiris - it’s great that you have your career goals in mind already, it puts you at the clear advantage when it’s time to choose a path for the future.
For now, focus on thinking what you would like to major in for your undergraduate studies as it might help determine the branch of the law you will later study and practice - government, corporate, international, tax, criminal, etc. Dedicate your time to reading a lot of complex books and articles that provoke thoughts and analysis. Being bilingual is tremendously helpful as you will be able to offer services to Spanish-speaking clients. Read a lot in Spanish as well and practice public speaking in both languages. You can start by talking in front of the mirror and in front of your family, and later sign up for a Debate Club in high school.
Look for volunteer opportunities in local smaller law offices and internships when you get older. Best of luck!
For now, focus on thinking what you would like to major in for your undergraduate studies as it might help determine the branch of the law you will later study and practice - government, corporate, international, tax, criminal, etc. Dedicate your time to reading a lot of complex books and articles that provoke thoughts and analysis. Being bilingual is tremendously helpful as you will be able to offer services to Spanish-speaking clients. Read a lot in Spanish as well and practice public speaking in both languages. You can start by talking in front of the mirror and in front of your family, and later sign up for a Debate Club in high school.
Look for volunteer opportunities in local smaller law offices and internships when you get older. Best of luck!
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
296
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
You're off to a fantastic start, especially since speaking both Spanish and English is a huge plus in law. You can start developing important skills like careful reading, clear writing, and making arguments without getting too emotional. Joining a debate club, participating in mock trials, or writing opinion pieces for school are all excellent ways to practice.
In high school, try to do well in subjects like English, history, government, and any classes that involve a lot of writing. Colleges like UCLA look for good grades and students who are consistent and curious. Outside of school, consider joining teen court programs, volunteering with community legal aid groups, or getting internships as you get older. Your Spanish skills can also help you assist underserved communities, which is a big advantage in law.
In high school, try to do well in subjects like English, history, government, and any classes that involve a lot of writing. Colleges like UCLA look for good grades and students who are consistent and curious. Outside of school, consider joining teen court programs, volunteering with community legal aid groups, or getting internships as you get older. Your Spanish skills can also help you assist underserved communities, which is a big advantage in law.
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
52
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Osiris -- the best preparation for a law career is to become a well rounded person. That means attacking each of your school subjects with enthusiasm. There are so many branches of law. Should you become a lawyer, you will have to decide which one you favor. Contract law requires a different set of skills then does criminal law. So as you prepare for being a lawyer, you must become a rounded personality.
So much of law practice has to do with reading legal cases and documents. English classes, literature classes, history classes will force you to read and understand what you are reading. In addition, you should read books on your own to expand the practice of reading.
Again, there are so many branches of law that almost any job or internship that creates good work habits is a good job. If you can, pick something that interests you. You never know, you may end up in a law practice related to that interest.
I wish you every success in your journey to becomming a lawyer. In my experience, a good lawyer is a good person. Strive to develop the qualities of being a good person and you will be a good lawyer.
So much of law practice has to do with reading legal cases and documents. English classes, literature classes, history classes will force you to read and understand what you are reading. In addition, you should read books on your own to expand the practice of reading.
Again, there are so many branches of law that almost any job or internship that creates good work habits is a good job. If you can, pick something that interests you. You never know, you may end up in a law practice related to that interest.
I wish you every success in your journey to becomming a lawyer. In my experience, a good lawyer is a good person. Strive to develop the qualities of being a good person and you will be a good lawyer.