Law School, no undergrad

Parent Cafe
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<p>I think Razorsharp was referring to the practice allowed in some states to prepare for the bar exam under the mentorship of a practicing attorney, without going to law school.</p>

<p>In California, it is possible to bypass undergraduate work and attend a 4-year, night-school type law school program; students must take a first year state-administered exam referred to as “the baby bar” as well as the regular bar exam on completion. I did not notice any particular difference in competency level among students who graduated from these schools – in fact, some seemed more capable in terms of day-to-day practice simply because the classes at those schools are generally taught by practicing lawyers and there is a greater emphasis on practical issues rather than theory. Probably not a good path for someone hoping to become a Supreme Court Judge… but if you want a lawyer who knows how to process a bankruptcy petition or divorce, then these night school lawyers generally know where the courthouse is. </p>

<p>When I was practicing law, I found I had to do a lot of extra teaching for interns who went to the fancier law schools… the stuff they teach at accredited law schools often has very little relationship to the stuff that goes on in real life.</p>

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<p>Interesting…</p>

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<p>If you qualify to attend a UK university, law is an undergraduate study. Depending on your state, the UK degree (especially one from University College, London, Cambridge or Oxford) may be deemed by the state bar assoc. as the equivalent of a US JD degree. (See, e.g., New York State Bar admission requirements).</p>

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<p>In Australia, law can be studied as a 4 year undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Laws or LLB) or post grad (JD).</p>