The Comprehensive Guide: What Schooling Do You Need to Be a Lawyer?
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The Comprehensive Guide: What Schooling Do You Need to Be a Lawyer?
Alright, let's cut through the noise and get real about what it truly takes to become a lawyer. You're here because you're probably wrestling with a question that feels both monumental and a little bit vague: "What schooling do I actually need?" And honestly, it’s a brilliant question, because the path to donning that robe or arguing in court isn't a straight, simple line. It's more like a winding, rigorous, and incredibly rewarding journey, paved with specific educational milestones. Forget what you think you know from TV shows; the reality is far more structured, demanding, and ultimately, more fulfilling.
I've seen countless bright-eyed aspiring lawyers, just like you, standing at the precipice of this decision, sometimes overwhelmed, sometimes misinformed, but always full of a burning desire to make a difference, to advocate, to understand the intricate dance of justice. And that's fantastic. That passion is your fuel. But passion alone won't get you through the doors of law school or past the bar exam. For that, you need a clear roadmap, a deep understanding of each educational rung on the ladder, and a healthy dose of grit. This isn't just a guide; think of it as your seasoned mentor walking you through every single step, from your early days in high school right up to the moment you earn that coveted Juris Doctor. We'll talk about the subjects you need to master, the tests you have to conquer, the experiences that will shape you, and the mindset you absolutely must cultivate. So, buckle up. This is the real talk about becoming a lawyer, from someone who's seen it all.
1. Laying the Groundwork: High School & Early Preparation
You might be thinking, "High school? Really? I thought we were talking about law school." And yes, absolutely, we are. But trust me on this: the seeds of a successful legal career are often sown long before you ever step foot on a university campus, let alone a law school quad. High school isn't just about getting good grades; it's about building foundational skills, developing intellectual curiosity, and beginning to understand the world in a way that will serve you profoundly later on. This is where you start to hone the raw talents that distinguish a good lawyer from a truly exceptional one. It’s about cultivating habits of mind that will be invaluable.
Think of your high school years as the ultimate training ground for your brain. It's not just about memorizing facts; it's about learning how to learn, how to think critically, and how to articulate those thoughts with precision and persuasion. This early preparation isn't just some optional extra; it's a strategic investment in your future. It's about setting yourself up for success, making the subsequent stages of your academic journey smoother and more impactful. Don't underestimate the power of these formative years to shape your intellectual muscles and give you a head start in a highly competitive field.
1.1. High School Curriculum Recommendations
When I advise young, aspiring lawyers, one of the first things I emphasize is the strategic selection of high school courses. This isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about actively seeking out subjects that will forge the core competencies you'll need as a legal professional. You're aiming to develop a mind that can dissect complex problems, construct airtight arguments, and communicate with crystal clarity. So, what exactly does that look like in a high school schedule?
First and foremost, advanced English courses are non-negotiable. I'm talking about literature classes that push you to analyze texts deeply, to understand authorial intent, to deconstruct narratives, and to appreciate the nuances of language. Even more crucial are composition and rhetoric classes that demand rigorous essay writing, research paper construction, and the art of persuasive prose. This isn't just about grammar; it's about learning to organize your thoughts logically, to support claims with evidence, and to write in a way that is both compelling and unambiguous – skills you will use literally every single day as a lawyer. Many students dread these classes, but I promise you, they are gold.
Next up, a robust diet of history and civics is absolutely essential. Understanding the historical context of laws, the evolution of governmental structures, and the philosophical underpinnings of justice systems provides a critical framework for legal thinking. Courses like AP U.S. History, AP European History, World History, and particularly AP Government and Politics will expose you to the development of legal principles, constitutional frameworks, and the very mechanisms of governance. You'll learn about precedents, social movements that influenced legislation, and the foundational documents that shape our legal landscape. This isn't just rote memorization of dates; it's about understanding cause and effect, power dynamics, and societal impact, which are all vital lenses through which lawyers view the world.
And let’s not forget about debate and public speaking. If your high school offers a debate club or speech class, jump on it. Seriously, run, don't walk. These activities are incredibly effective at developing your ability to think on your feet, articulate complex ideas under pressure, construct logical arguments, anticipate counter-arguments, and project confidence. The ability to present an argument coherently and persuasively, whether in a courtroom or a boardroom, is a cornerstone of legal practice. It helps you conquer that fear of public speaking, which, believe me, is a common hurdle, and transforms it into a powerful asset.
Pro-Tip: Embrace the "Hard" Subjects
Don't shy away from subjects like advanced mathematics or even philosophy, if available. While they might not seem directly related to law, they are phenomenal for developing abstract reasoning, logical problem-solving, and the ability to follow complex chains of thought. A lawyer's mind is a logical mind, and these courses are excellent training.
1.2. Extracurricular Activities for Aspiring Lawyers
Beyond the classroom, your extracurricular choices in high school can be incredibly powerful in shaping your pre-legal skills and demonstrating your commitment. This isn't about padding a resume for the sake of it; it's about genuine engagement that builds character, leadership, and a practical understanding of the skills lawyers use daily. Admissions committees look for well-rounded individuals who have actively sought out opportunities to grow and contribute.
The absolute gold standard for aspiring lawyers in high school is the debate club or mock trial team. These activities are not just fun; they are immersive simulations of legal practice. In debate, you learn to research, construct arguments, anticipate rebuttals, and articulate your position under timed pressure – skills that are directly transferable to legal brief writing and oral arguments. Mock trial takes it a step further, placing you in the shoes of attorneys, witnesses, and even judges, forcing you to understand courtroom procedures, rules of evidence, and the art of direct and cross-examination. I remember coaching a mock trial team once, and the transformation in those students, from shy freshmen to confident advocates, was truly remarkable. They learned more about the practical application of law in one season than some learn in a semester of college.
Student government is another fantastic avenue. Serving in student government teaches you about policy-making, consensus-building, negotiation, and representing the interests of a diverse group of constituents. These are all fundamental aspects of legal work, whether you're drafting legislation, mediating disputes, or advocating for a client's best interests. It also demonstrates leadership, a quality highly valued in the legal profession, and shows a commitment to community and problem-solving within a structured framework.
Finally, don't overlook the power of volunteering or community engagement, especially in roles that involve advocacy or service to others. Whether it's working with a local non-profit, helping at a legal aid clinic (even in an administrative capacity), or participating in social justice initiatives, these experiences demonstrate empathy, a commitment to justice, and an understanding of societal issues that often form the basis of legal cases. It shows you're not just intellectually curious, but also socially conscious – a crucial trait for any lawyer who wants to make a real impact.
2. The Undergraduate Journey: Your Bachelor's Degree
Alright, you've navigated high school, hopefully with a solid academic foundation and some meaningful extracurriculars under your belt. Now we're moving into the realm of higher education, and this is where the path to law school truly begins to solidify. Your undergraduate degree isn't just a stepping stone; it's a crucible where your intellectual abilities are refined, your worldview is broadened, and your critical thinking skills are honed to a razor's edge. This stage is absolutely paramount, and how you approach it will significantly impact your chances of getting into the law school of your dreams.
Many students approach college with the singular goal of "getting into law school," and while that's an admirable target, it can sometimes lead to narrow choices. My advice? Embrace the undergraduate experience for what it is: a period of intense intellectual growth and personal discovery. The skills you develop here – deep analytical reasoning, sophisticated research methodologies, compelling written and oral communication, and a broad understanding of human society – are not just prerequisites for law school; they are the bedrock upon which your entire legal career will be built. This is where you learn to think like a scholar, which is the necessary precursor to thinking like a lawyer.
2.1. Bachelor's Degree Requirement: The Non-Negotiable First Step
Let's get this crystal clear right from the start: a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is a mandatory prerequisite for law school admission in almost every jurisdiction in the United States. Period. Full stop. There are virtually no shortcuts here. You cannot jump directly from high school to law school, and a two-year associate's degree, while valuable in its own right, will not suffice. This isn't just a bureaucratic hurdle; it's a foundational requirement rooted in the belief that a comprehensive undergraduate education provides the intellectual maturity and broad knowledge base necessary for the rigors of legal study.
The accreditation aspect is crucial. When we talk about an "accredited institution," we mean a college or university that has been certified by a recognized accrediting agency. This ensures that the educational programs meet certain quality standards. Law school admissions committees will scrutinize this, so make sure your chosen undergraduate institution holds proper regional or national accreditation. Attending a non-accredited school, no matter how good you perceive it to be, can severely jeopardize your law school application, often rendering you ineligible. It’s a detail that can easily be overlooked but has massive implications.
Why this unwavering insistence on a bachelor's degree? Well, law school isn't just about memorizing statutes; it's about applying complex reasoning to ambiguous situations, understanding intricate social and economic forces, and engaging in sophisticated ethical analysis. These are skills that are developed over years of rigorous academic inquiry, not just a few introductory courses. An undergraduate degree provides that extensive exposure to diverse subjects, critical thinking methodologies, and advanced research techniques, creating a well-rounded individual capable of grappling with the multifaceted challenges of legal practice.
Beyond the academic preparation, the bachelor's degree also signifies a level of commitment and perseverance. It demonstrates your ability to complete a long-term academic program, manage demanding coursework, and navigate the challenges of university life. These are all proxies for the kind of discipline and resilience that will be absolutely essential when you're facing the intense demands of law school and, eventually, a legal career. It’s a signal to admissions committees that you’ve got what it takes to stick with it, even when the going gets tough.
2.2. Best Undergraduate Majors for Law School: Debunking Myths
Now, this is where a lot of aspiring lawyers get hung up, and it’s a myth I love to debunk: there is no single "pre-law" major that guarantees you a spot in law school. Seriously, if anyone tells you otherwise, they're misinformed. While many universities offer a "pre-law track" or advising, it's typically a set of recommended courses and resources, not a specific major you must declare. The truth is, law schools don't care as much about what you major in as they do about the skills you develop and the grades you earn within that major.
What are those crucial skills? We're talking strong analytical reasoning, sophisticated research capabilities, impeccable writing, and effective oral communication. So, when choosing a major, think about which fields genuinely excite you and, more importantly, which ones will force you to sharpen these intellectual tools. Many traditional liberal arts majors are fantastic for this: history, political science, economics, philosophy, and English are perennial favorites, and for good reason. They demand extensive reading, critical analysis of complex texts, argumentative essay writing, and often, public presentation of ideas.
For instance, a history major teaches you to analyze primary sources, understand context, and construct narratives based on evidence – all vital for legal arguments. A philosophy major will push you to grapple with abstract concepts, logical fallacies, and ethical dilemmas, which are the very heart of jurisprudence. An economics major hones your quantitative reasoning, understanding of incentives, and the ability to model complex systems, skills invaluable in corporate law or regulatory work. English majors become masters of language, capable of crafting precise and persuasive arguments. These aren't just "good" majors; they are excellent training grounds.
But here's the kicker: don't pigeonhole yourself. I've seen incredibly successful law students and lawyers who majored in everything from engineering and computer science to music and fine arts. A STEM background, for example, can be a massive asset, especially if you're interested in patent law or intellectual property. It demonstrates a different kind of rigorous analytical thinking and problem-solving. What truly matters is that you choose a major you are passionate about, because that passion will fuel your engagement, leading to better grades and a deeper understanding of your subject matter, which in turn develops those critical transferable skills. Don't pick a major you hate just because you think it's "pre-law" – you'll likely struggle and perform poorly, which is far more detrimental than the major itself.
Insider Note: The "Pre-Law" Trap
Some universities offer a "Pre-Law" major. While it might sound appealing, be cautious. Often, these majors are less rigorous than traditional liberal arts disciplines and might not provide the depth of skill development that law schools truly value. It's usually better to choose a strong, traditional major and use "pre-law" advising as a resource, rather than as your primary academic path.
2.3. The Importance of GPA in Undergraduate Studies
If the LSAT is one leg of the admissions stool, your undergraduate GPA is the other equally sturdy leg. Let's be brutally honest: a strong undergraduate GPA is not just "important"; it is an absolutely critical factor for law school admissions, especially for competitive programs and coveted scholarship opportunities. It serves as a primary indicator of your academic rigor, your discipline, and your ability to consistently perform at a high level. Law schools want to see that you can handle a demanding academic workload and excel in it, and your GPA is the most straightforward evidence of that.
Think about it from the admissions committee's perspective. They're trying to predict who will succeed in the incredibly challenging environment of law school. A high GPA, particularly in a rigorous major, signals that you are intelligent, diligent, organized, and capable of mastering complex material. It suggests you possess the work ethic needed to keep up with the intense reading assignments, the intricate legal concepts, and the demanding exam schedule that characterize legal education. A consistently strong academic record throughout your four years of college tells a powerful story about your potential for success.
Furthermore, your GPA directly impacts your chances of receiving scholarship money. Law school is expensive, and every point on your GPA can translate into thousands of dollars in financial aid, making a significant difference in your post-graduation debt load. Top-tier law schools, in particular, use GPA (along with LSAT scores) as a primary metric for awarding merit scholarships, so performing well academically in college can literally pay dividends down the line. It's not just about getting in; it's about getting in affordably.
Maintaining a high GPA isn't just about being smart; it's about strategic planning, effective time management, and seeking help when you need it. Choose courses where you can excel, manage your workload to avoid burnout, and engage actively with your professors. Don't be afraid to utilize academic support services, study groups, or tutoring if you're struggling. Every grade matters, and a dip in your GPA, especially in your later years, can be difficult to explain away. Consistency and excellence are the watchwords here.
2.4. Gaining Pre-Law Experience During Undergrad
While academic performance is paramount, law school admissions committees also appreciate applicants who have demonstrated a genuine interest in the legal field and gained some practical exposure. This isn't about becoming an expert; it's about showing initiative, confirming your career interest, and developing a more nuanced understanding of what legal work actually entails. Gaining pre-law experience during your undergraduate years can significantly strengthen your application and provide invaluable insights.
Internships are arguably the most impactful way to achieve this. Seek out opportunities to intern at law firms (small or large, corporate or public interest), government agencies, courts (with a judge or court clerk), or legal departments within corporations. Even if your role is primarily administrative – answering phones, filing, organizing documents – you'll be immersed in a legal environment. You'll observe attorneys in action, gain a sense of office culture, and begin to understand the daily rhythm of legal practice. These experiences not only look great on a resume but also provide tangible talking points for your personal statement and interviews, showcasing your commitment and understanding.
Beyond formal internships, consider part-time jobs or volunteer work that involves research, advocacy, or working with vulnerable populations. For example, volunteering at a non-profit that provides legal aid, working for a political campaign, or even a customer service role that hones your problem-solving and communication skills can be beneficial. The key is to seek out experiences where you are actively engaging with real-world problems, developing transferable skills, and interacting with professionals in a meaningful way. This isn't about shadowing for a day; it's about sustained engagement.
These experiences serve multiple purposes. First, they provide concrete examples for your resume and letters of recommendation. A supervising attorney or judge can write a powerful letter attesting to your work ethic and intellectual curiosity. Second, they help you confirm (or sometimes, delightfully, redirect) your interest in law. It's far better to discover early on that a legal career isn't for you than to spend three years and six figures on law school only to realize it's not a fit. Finally, these experiences build your professional network, connecting you with lawyers and judges who can offer mentorship, advice, and potentially future opportunities. Don't underestimate the power of these connections.
3. The LSAT: Your Gateway to Law School
Alright, let's talk about the beast. The dragon guarding the gates of law school: the Law School Admission Test, or LSAT. This exam is, for better or worse, an absolutely pivotal component of your law school application. It’s a standardized test designed to assess certain skills deemed essential for success in law school, and its score will carry significant weight in the admissions process, often more so than your GPA, especially at highly competitive institutions. Many students find it daunting, and for good reason – it’s a unique and challenging test.
But here’s the thing: it’s also a test you can absolutely conquer with the right strategy and dedication. Don’t let the mystique or the horror stories intimidate you. Understanding what the LSAT is, why it matters, and how to effectively prepare for it will demystify the process and empower you to achieve your best possible score. Think of it not as an insurmountable obstacle, but as a puzzle that, once you understand its rules and patterns, becomes solvable. It’s a test of skill, not just raw intelligence, and skills can be honed.
3.1. What is the LSAT? Structure and Scoring
The LSAT is a standardized examination administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), designed to measure skills considered essential for success in law school. It is not an intelligence test, nor does it test legal knowledge. Instead, it focuses on your ability to read critically, reason logically, and analyze arguments – precisely the intellectual heavy lifting you'll be doing daily as a law student and lawyer. The test consists of several multiple-choice sections, plus an unscored writing sample.
Historically, the LSAT was composed of five multiple-choice sections: two Logical Reasoning sections, one Analytical Reasoning section (often called "Logic Games"), one Reading Comprehension section, and one unscored experimental section. The experimental section could be any of the three types and was used by LSAC to test new questions for future exams, but you wouldn't know which section it was while taking the test. However, as of August 2024, the Analytical Reasoning ("Logic Games") section is being removed, and it will be replaced by a second Logical Reasoning section. So, moving forward, you'll face three scored sections: two Logical Reasoning and one Reading Comprehension, plus the unscored writing sample.
- Logical Reasoning (LR): These sections present short arguments or scenarios, and you're asked to identify assumptions, strengthen or weaken arguments, draw conclusions, or find parallels in reasoning. This tests your ability to analyze, evaluate, and complete arguments. It's all about understanding the structure of an argument, identifying its flaws, and seeing how different pieces of information relate.
- Reading Comprehension (RC): This section consists of several lengthy passages, usually drawn from various academic disciplines (law, science, humanities), followed by questions that test your ability to understand main ideas, identify specific details, infer meaning, and analyze the author's purpose or tone. It's about deep, analytical reading, not just skimming.
3.2. Why the LSAT Matters: Its Weight in Admissions
"Why does this one test matter so much?" It's a question I hear constantly, and it's a fair one. The simple, albeit sometimes frustrating, answer is that the LSAT score is an incredibly powerful, often primary, predictor of law school success. Law schools, particularly the highly ranked ones, rely heavily on the LSAT because it provides a standardized metric to compare applicants from wildly diverse undergraduate institutions, majors, and grading cultures. It levels the playing field, in theory, allowing them to assess raw aptitude for legal study.
For top-tier law schools, your LSAT score is often the most significant factor in your application, sometimes even more so than your undergraduate GPA. These schools receive thousands of applications from incredibly bright students with high GPAs, and the LSAT helps them differentiate among an already stellar pool. A strong LSAT score can open doors to schools you might not otherwise have considered, and it can be a significant boost for scholarship opportunities, as we discussed earlier. It's a numbers game, and your LSAT score is a big number.
Furthermore, LSAC and law schools have conducted extensive research demonstrating a strong correlation between LSAT scores and first-year law school grades (1L GPA). While no single test is perfect, the LSAT has proven to be a remarkably effective tool for predicting who will thrive in the challenging academic environment of law school. It assesses the kind of analytical and critical thinking skills that are directly tested in law school exams, which are often essay-based and require complex legal reasoning.
Pro-Tip: Don't Underestimate the LSAT
Never approach the LSAT lightly. It's not a test you can cram for in a week. It requires dedicated, strategic preparation over several months. Treat it with the respect it demands, and your efforts will be rewarded. Your score can literally define your options.
3.3. Effective LSAT Preparation Strategies
Given the immense weight of the LSAT, effective preparation is not just advisable; it's absolutely essential. This isn't a test you can wing or simply "study for" in the traditional sense of memorizing facts. It's a skills-based exam, and like any skill, it improves with consistent practice, strategic analysis, and targeted effort. Think of it as training for a mental marathon.
My number one piece of advice for LSAT prep is to start early. Seriously, give yourself ample time – ideally 3 to 6 months – to thoroughly prepare. This allows you to gradually build your skills, identify your weaknesses, and avoid burnout. Begin with a diagnostic test to establish a baseline score. This will show you which sections you're strong in and which need the most work. Don't be discouraged by your initial score; it's just a starting point.
Next, invest in quality study materials. LSAC's official practice tests (known as "PrepTests") are the gold standard. These are actual past LSAT exams, and there's no better way to familiarize yourself with the test's format, question types, and pacing. Work through these tests under timed conditions, simulating the actual exam environment as closely as possible. Beyond official materials, many reputable commercial LSAT prep courses (like Khan Academy's free resources, Kaplan, Princeton Review, 7Sage, LSAT Lab, etc.) offer structured curricula, practice questions, and analytical tools that can be incredibly helpful. Choose one that aligns with your learning style and budget.
The most crucial part of preparation, beyond simply doing practice questions, is the review process. For every question you get wrong (and even those you get right but weren't 100% confident on), meticulously analyze why. Was it a misunderstanding of the question? A logical flaw you missed? A timing issue? Did you fall for a common trap? Keep a detailed error log to track your mistakes and identify patterns. This reflective practice is where the real learning happens. It's not just about getting the right answer; it's about understanding the reasoning behind the right answer and why the wrong answers are incorrect.
Finally, don't neglect your mental and physical well-being. LSAT prep can be grueling. Schedule regular breaks, get enough sleep, eat well, and incorporate stress-reducing activities. Test-day anxiety is real, and managing it effectively can significantly impact your performance. Practice mindfulness or visualization techniques. Remember, your best performance comes from a well-rested, focused mind.
4. The Law School Experience: Earning Your Juris Doctor (JD)
You’ve conquered high school, earned your bachelor’s degree, and slain the LSAT dragon. Congratulations! You’re now standing at the threshold of law school, ready to embark on the most intellectually demanding and transformative educational journey of your life. Earning a Juris Doctor (JD) degree is not merely about accumulating credits; it's about fundamentally reshaping the way you think, speak, and approach problems. It's a three-year crucible that will test your limits, challenge your assumptions, and ultimately forge you into a legal professional.
This stage is where the rubber truly meets the road. You'll move from theoretical understanding to practical application, from abstract concepts to concrete case analysis. It’s a period of intense academic rigor, but also one of incredible personal and professional growth. You’ll learn a new language – "legalese" – and a new way of reasoning, often referred to as "thinking like a lawyer." This isn't just another degree; it’s a professional credential that signifies you have met the highest standards of legal education and are prepared to enter the legal profession.
4.1. Law School Admissions Process: Beyond LSAT & GPA
While your LSAT score and undergraduate GPA are undeniably crucial, the law school admissions process is far more holistic than just those two numbers. Think of them as the foundational elements, the necessary but not always sufficient ingredients. Admissions committees are looking for well-rounded individuals who bring unique perspectives, compelling narratives, and a demonstrated commitment to the legal field. Your application is a story, and the numbers are just one chapter.
Your personal statement is arguably the most important qualitative component of your application. This is your chance to tell your story, to articulate why you want to be a lawyer, and to showcase your personality, values, and writing ability. It's not a resume in essay form; it's a narrative that reveals your motivations, significant life experiences, and how they connect to your legal aspirations. A compelling personal statement can humanize your application, differentiate you from other candidates with similar numbers, and leave a lasting impression. I've read thousands of these, and the ones that stand out are authentic, well-written, and deeply personal.
Letters of recommendation (LORs) provide an external validation of your abilities and character. Ideally, these come from professors who know you well and can speak to your academic prowess, critical thinking skills, and work ethic. If you've been out of school for a while, professional references who can attest to your relevant skills are also valuable. Choose recommenders who can offer specific anecdotes and insights, rather than generic praise. A strong LOR can highlight qualities not evident from your transcripts alone.
Your resume should be tailored to highlight experiences that demonstrate transferable skills relevant to law school and the legal profession. This includes academic achievements, leadership roles, work experience (legal or otherwise), volunteer activities, and any significant accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of "organized events," say "organized 10 events for 200+ attendees." It shows initiative, responsibility, and a track record of achievement.
Finally, many applicants choose to submit a diversity statement or addenda. A diversity statement allows you to explain how your unique background, experiences, or perspectives would contribute to the diversity of the law school class and the legal profession. This isn't just about race or ethnicity; it can encompass socioeconomic background, unique life challenges, unusual career paths, or overcoming adversity. Addenda are used to explain any inconsistencies or unusual circumstances in your application, such as a dip in GPA during a particular semester due to a family emergency. These provide crucial context and demonstrate your transparency.
4.2. The Structure of Law School: First Year (1L) to Third Year (3L)
The structure of law school, particularly in the United States, is fairly standardized, typically following a three-year progression that is famously rigorous and intentionally designed to transform your thinking. Each year builds upon the last, progressively moving you from foundational principles to specialized knowledge and practical application.
Your first year, known colloquially as 1L, is legendary for its intensity. It's a baptism by fire. You'll take a prescribed set of core courses, generally including Contracts, Torts, Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure, Property, and Legal Writing. The teaching method heavily relies on the "Socratic Method," where professors engage students in direct questioning about assigned cases, forcing them to articulate legal principles, defend their reasoning, and think on their feet. The sheer volume of reading (cases, statutes, scholarly articles) is immense,
