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How can I become a lawyer? I already took the LSAT and got a 164 and submitted an application essay, but I applied for the CAS which did not send my transcripts to the appropriate schools I applied to, so I did not get in. Is there an easier way to become a lawyer? I have ADHD, depression, and anxiety and I really need some help because I can't jump through all of the hoops required to become a lawyer. My dream is to work for civil rights and social justice.

#lawyers #justices #federalgovernemnt #criminal-justice #college #criminology #law #lawyer

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Kevin T.’s Answer

Hi Caitlin,

Like you, I grew up in Trenton, NJ and I have struggled with anxiety and depression on occasion during my life. And I'm a lawyer!

You obviously have the capacity to become a lawyer. Your LSAT score is competitive, and you either have your undergraduate degree or will be getting it soon. So don't let one mishap hold you back! Instead, learn from past mistakes and get it right next time. That is exactly what the practice of law is all about ... learning from past decisions and events, then getting it right the next time.

I agree with the prior answers ... there are other ways to contribute and work in the area of civil rights if that is your passion. Neither Martin Luther King Jr. nor Rosa Parks had legal degrees. They just stood up for what they believed in against tough odds and through great challenges. So, a legal degree is not necessary, but grit and determination are, particularly if you are going to be fighting for social justice!

My suggestion would be to find a charitable organization that operates in your area and focuses on some of the civil rights/justice issues that you want to tackle because you think they are important. For example, maybe voter suppression is one area that you think it interesting. If so, reach out to vote.org and see whether they need help with a drive to register young voters in your area. Maybe criminal justice reform is your area. If so, reach out to the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice and see how you can get involved. Find a cause and get involved and stay engaged.

Best of luck to you, and don't give up your dream!

Kevin T. recommends the following next steps:

Visit njisj.org
Visit vote.org
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Mallory’s Answer

You could try talking to local law offices in your area or the public defenders office and see if they need any interns. This would be a great experience to learn more about the system, the different jobs/roles involved in a case, and see what role you would be happiest in. If you are set on becoming a lawyer there is no shame in trying again. It can be scary and hard but the experience at the end will make everything worth it. Believe in yourself- you made it this far!

I wish you the best of luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you Mallory, I really appreciate the feedback! 😊 Caitlin
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David’s Answer

You don't really have to be an lawyer in order to work for the civil rights and justice system, as long as you have the degree in the field, experiences, and course related work then you should be fine getting a job or building your career with the civil rights and justice system. Like a degree in Criminal Justice, Legal Studies, Political Science, and/or Sociology will allow you to work in those areas. Being a lawyer is just one more level up and more works for yourself just because you want to be in a court room. There is career behind the scene and more suitable for you from the my understanding of your situation, why not give a try and ask around the profession and see if they can assist you in some ways.
Thank you comment icon Thanks a lot David 😊! I only have a BA degree in Political Science, do you think that I would need a master's degree as well? Or are my current credentials enough? Caitlin
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Yonggang’s Answer

You certainly have the ability to succeed in law school based on your LSAT score! The score is good for a few years so apply again in the fall and give yourself a break from school next year. As the other comments suggested, try get involved while waiting for the good news. Many people actually go to law school years after graduating from college, so it is not a disadvantage to take a "gap " year. I am certain you will be a good lawyer in the near future. Good luck!
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