The training needed to become a lawyer after obtaining a law degree varies by jurisdiction and the specific area of law one wishes to pursue. Here are some common pathways and institutions where further training may occur:
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Bar Exam Preparation:
- After completing a Juris Doctor (JD) program, aspiring lawyers in the United States must pass the bar exam in the state where they wish to practice. Various institutions and online platforms offer bar review courses, such as:
- Kaplan Bar Review
- Barbri
- Themis Bar Review
- After completing a Juris Doctor (JD) program, aspiring lawyers in the United States must pass the bar exam in the state where they wish to practice. Various institutions and online platforms offer bar review courses, such as:
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Continuing Legal Education (CLE):
- Once licensed, lawyers often need to complete continuing education to stay current with legal developments. Many state bar associations require CLE credits. Institutions that provide CLE programs include:
- Local and state bar associations
- Legal education providers like Practising Law Institute (PLI) or National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA)
- Once licensed, lawyers often need to complete continuing education to stay current with legal developments. Many state bar associations require CLE credits. Institutions that provide CLE programs include:
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Specialized Training or Certifications:
- Lawyers may seek specialized training or certification in specific areas of law, such as family law, criminal law, or intellectual property. Institutions offering such programs include:
- American Bar Association (ABA) accredited programs
- Specialty certification programs through organizations like the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) or the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)
- Lawyers may seek specialized training or certification in specific areas of law, such as family law, criminal law, or intellectual property. Institutions offering such programs include:
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Internships and Clerkships:
- Practical experience through internships or clerkships during or after law school is invaluable. These are typically arranged through individual law schools or organizations seeking law clerks.
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LL.M. Programs:
- For those who already have a JD, pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in a specialized area can enhance expertise. Many law schools offer LL.M. programs, such as:
- Harvard Law School
- New York University School of Law
- Georgetown University Law Center
- For those who already have a JD, pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in a specialized area can enhance expertise. Many law schools offer LL.M. programs, such as:
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Judicial Clerkships:
- A judicial clerkship can provide hands-on experience in understanding judicial processes and case law. These positions are typically gained through law schools' career services.
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Mentorship Programs:
- Many legal associations offer mentorship programs that can provide guidance and networking opportunities.
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Workshops and Seminars:
- Attending workshops and seminars on trending legal topics can be beneficial for ongoing education.
If you're considering a specific area of specialization or jurisdiction, it's advisable to check the requirements of the relevant bar association or legal authority in your area.