The American Bar Association does not recommend any particular undergraduate majors or courses; however, statistics show that prelaw and criminal justice majors are less likely to be accepted to law schools than students who major in fields that require intensive reading and writing. [2] X Research source Prestigious universities have a reputation for being competitive. Not attending a prestigious or expensive university is certainly not a bar to being accepted to law school or even becoming a district attorney, but a degree from a competitive university will impress admissions boards and future employers. Get real-world experience by completing an internship at a law firm or government office (especially the district attorney’s office) during your undergraduate years. This experience will teach you how to think like a lawyer and give you a preview of what to expect after law school.
Some law schools are accredited by the American Bar Association, and others are not. Some states do not permit graduates of non-accredited law schools to sit for the bar exam. [3] X Research source Verify your state’s policy if you are considering attending a non-accredited law school. Statistics on individual schools are readily available from resources such as U. S. News and World Report. When applying to law schools, consider and compare: Tuition and fees Available scholarships Average LSAT scores of admitted students Percentage of students employed in legal careers after graduation
Most schools grade on a strict curve, requiring you outperform your peers, rather than merely keep up with them, to get a top grade. Study hard and focus on putting forth your best effort. Despite the competitive atmosphere, do not be tempted to cheat or sabotage others. Law schools take academic unprofessionalism very seriously. [4] X Research source Don’t neglect the social aspects of law school. Your friends will help you learn, help you manage your stress, and be valuable contacts in your professional future.
Internships and externships. Work for a government office (such as the district attorney) or a private firm in exchange for money (internship) or course credit (externship). [5] X Research source Clinics. School-sponsored clinics provide free or low-cost legal aid to the community. Work is performed by law students, under the supervision of law professors. Clinics may be repeatable for course credit. Judicial clerkships. Work for a judge doing research and writing. [6] X Research source Practical courses. Some courses, such as mock trial, mediation, and motion practice, have a large practical participation component. Competitions. Represent your school in mock trial, moot court, or other competitions. Clubs and associations. Campus groups are usually organized around a specific community or academic area of interest. Participation in such organizations shows leadership and a strong commitment to a subject or topic. Law review. An invitation to write for your school’s law review journal reflects strong writing skills, and gives you the opportunity to publish original work.
Take the bar exam. The exam tests whether a candidate is qualified to practice law in the state. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source It is administered in February and July, and lasts for two or three days, depending on your state. [8] X Research source [9] X Research source Commercial bar preparation courses are available, and are strongly recommended. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source Many bar takers don’t pass on the first try. Don’t be discouraged; you can try again. [11] X Research source Satisfy moral character and fitness requirements. Each jurisdiction investigates the moral character and fitness of bar applicants, and will inquire into relevant criminal issues, untreated substance abuse or mental illness, untruthfulness, and financial irresponsibility. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source Take the Multi-State Professional Responsibility Exam, which is required in most jurisdictions. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Conference of Bar Examiners Nonprofit organization responsible for the development of national and state bar examinations. Go to source
If you are unable to secure a position as an assistant district attorney upon graduation, build your legal experience elsewhere, preferably in a related field, such as criminal defense. You can continue to apply for openings in the district attorney’s office as they become available.
To become an assistant district attorney, you will need to apply for work in the district attorney’s office. Most offices collect applications year-round and contact applicants when an assistant district attorney position becomes available. Monitor your local office’s human resources page for job openings for instructions on how to apply. You can expect to accrue ten or more years of experience as an assistant district attorney before becoming a district attorney. However, viable candidates can emerge sooner.
The process. The courtroom has its own rules, procedures, and customs. Different judges may have additional rules for attorneys to keep the process flowing smoothly. You will need to learn the ins and outs of courtroom advocacy through practice and by observing others. The craft. The practice of presenting your case and advocating your client’s position clearly and persuasively has been likened to an art. Practice and observation will make you a more effective advocate. The people. You will be seeing the same judges, clerks, staff, and opposing attorneys over and over again. Treat others respectfully and do your job well, and your reputation will spread.
Give money to local political campaigns. Even small donations will be appreciated and remembered.
You might also consider becoming a confidential source from inside the DA’s office, sharing inside information about organization politics with local reporters. These reporters may support you when you run for office.
Does the office need to be harder on crime, or reduce overzealous prosecution of minor offenses? Does the office have a good relationship with the police department? Does the office have community outreach programs?[16] X Research source Is the office facing public controversy that warrants internal reform or a response that renews public confidence?
Elections are typically held every four years, but the length of a district attorney’s term of office varies by jurisdiction. [18] X Research source District_Attorney_Career_Info_and_Education_Requirements
While you should definitely consider bringing people on board who have former experience with campaigning, also focus on selecting people who share the same vision as you and who can bring fresh insight to the challenges you will face. [20] X Research source Recruit on college campuses. Check with the heads of academic departments to see if they can recommend any students who may be in need of work experience. Contact the local offices of political parties. Local branches of political parties may have an established list of volunteers who are willing to help on campaigns.
Your website can be a helpful tool, but it should not be your sole source of advertising. Think of your website as being a place for people to go for further information about you and your plans, and as an avenue to keep you connected with your supporters.
If the public is tired of hearing about you, then they know who you are.
Although you won’t be trying to win votes from the general public, you can use many of the same methods a campaigning politician would use. Building your political profile can impress an appointing body just as it would impress the voting public.
