How to Choose Law School
I’m a licensed lawyer and practicing in-house counsel in Texas. My goal in writing these posts is simply to help prospective law students make a better, more informed decision about law school than I did. So if you’re unsure about whether the legal profession is the right path for you, you’ve come to the right place!
My Law Posts
*As of March 2011, the number of law school applicants has gone down by approximately 11.5% according to the ABA, which represents a 10 year low. For more info, click here.
Choosing Law School 101
Learn About Being a Lawyer BEFORE Taking the LSAT!
How Much I Pay Every Month In Law School Student Loans
Thinking Like a Lawyer
Certainty Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
A Lawyer’s Book Review of One L
Would Lawyers Do Law School Again?
20 Common Reasons Why People Go to Law School
My Real Life Law School Decision
Top 10 Ways to Test Drive the Law
My Favorite Non-Traditional Lawyers
Should You Go to Law School?
Note: If law school has been your dream since you were a kid, and you’re certain beyond a reasonable doubt that the legal profession is right for you, then I wish you all possible success! This isn’t intended for you.
I wrote these posts after having a conversation with a friend who was preparing for the LSAT and applying to law school. We talked about all the things I wish I’d known, but somehow didn’t ask…
We talked about the types of jobs within the legal profession, working at a law firm, living under the billable hour, salaries, and student loans. I even pulled out my monthly student loan invoice to show her what I pay for the privilege of being a lawyer and having gone to law school. She practically choked, and I became convinced that I need to start CLS. Too many people jump into law school without having the right information. I know, I was one of them.
When I stop to think about how I decided to go to law school, I’m sincerely thankfully that I enjoy being a lawyer as much as I do. I’m proof that a poor decision making process doesn’t necessarily result in a bad decision. But seriously, why take that risk!
What’s Motivating This?
I believe that going to law school and being a lawyer is NOT right for everyone, but I have no vested interest in whether you decide to go to law school or whether you decide to do something completely different with your life! The only goal is to help you think about the important questions surrounding this big decision, especially the ones you may not know to ask, so that you can be sure of your choice.
- I’m not trying to persuade you to go to law school. Being a lawyer is tough and unrelenting. There are easier ways to make money and gain social standing or prestige.
- I’m not trying to dissuade you from going to law school either. Lawyers do important, meaningful work, and without lawyers the rule of law and our freedoms would evaporate.
In the end, I believe that the best kind of lawyers are the ones who are passionate about their work and suited to the practice of law. It’s as simple as that.
