You must receive an undergraduate degree from a college or university (approximately 4 years), take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT), apply and get accepted to law school and attend an accredited law school (approximately 3 years). Once you have completed the education, you must pass the BAR exam (which is a licensing exam), usually undergo an extensive background check, and acheive a minimum score on the MPRE (Multi-state Professional Responsibility Exam) in order to receive a law license.

If you are interested in a legal career, don’t let the time it takes discourage you – it will go by very quickly! Talk to your school counselor about a career plan and what to take for your undergraduate degree. It’s never too early to start thinking about it. See also Question #422.