Law Degree Overview

The legal system in the United States comprises of a number of legal institutions that work together to enforce law and resolve judicial disputes. These regulatory bodies are found at local, state, and federal level. The legal system is broad and addresses all kinds of legal issues that may arise. These legal issues can range anywhere from individuals committing crimes to organizations violating environmental laws. As technology and other factors have added to the complexity of such problems, the demand for more specialized legal professionals has increased. There are all kinds of law professionals you may find working in this field such as lawyers, barristers, attorneys, judges, paralegals, and court reporters.



Law Schools

There are many law schools in the nation that have earned a reputation for offering top quality educational programs. These schools are dedicated to providing higher education in the field of law. Individuals who want to pursue a career in law will first need to earn a law degree. To enroll in a law degree, it is first necessary to complete your high school diploma. On the other hand, it is also recommended that you take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) exam. This exam is administered by the Law School Admission Council. Many law schools base their admissions on the LSAT score. You may be required to submit these when applying for admission in a law degree.

Types of Law Degrees

There are three main types of degree programs you can enroll in after completing your college education. These include Juris Doctor Degree, Master of law Degree, and Doctor of Juridical Science degree. Students can also opt for online law degrees if attending a campus is not a possibility for them due to certain restraints.

A Juris Doctor Degree is the most basic level law degree that will prep a student for practicing law. The program can be completed in three years or more, depending upon which law institute you enroll in. The program covers all basic concepts in law and provides students with an in-depth understanding of the legal field. A master’s of law degree can be pursued after completing a JD program. This is a more advanced qualification and allows students to specialize in a certain area of law. Some of the most popular branches in law include corporate law, family law, intellectual property law, criminal law, class action lawsuit, cyber law, and real estate law.

A doctor of Judicial Science law is the highest form of qualification you can get in the United States. This is a post graduate program that comprises of a dissertation and other course requirements.  The duration of the program can range anywhere from 5 to 7 years, depending upon the institute offering the program.

Law Careers

With a law degree in hand, you can take the bar examination and acquire license for practicing law in your state. Many individuals start their career by working in a law firm and gaining experience. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median income of lawyers in 2010 was $112,760. This field is expected to grow at a fast rate and is opening up many job opportunities for qualified individuals.

Law Degree Options: