Should You Go to Law School

Wondering if you should go to law school? Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of going to law school, along with some advice before you make your decision.
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Today I want to discuss whether you should go to law school.
Critical Thinking Skills. Law schools do a superb job at teaching critical thinking skills, and is one of the few disciplines that does this well.
Prestige. Lawyers are viewed as leaders in the community.
Wealth. A very small percentage of lawyers get wealthy, either through owning a large firm or becoming the CEO of a corporation.
Cost. Law school costs lots of money, with most students financing their education through loans.
Salaries. Most law students don’t make a lot of money right out of law school.
Work-Life Balance. There is very little work-life balance for most lawyers. .
Personal Problems. Lawyers suffer from high levels of depression and substance abuse.
Talk to Lawyers. Go and find out what lawyers actually do.
Career Path. If you are going into law because you want to do something specific, like fighting human trafficking, working for the Department of Justice, or becoming a judge, find out how realistic this is.
Uncertainty. Many people go to law school because they don’t know what they want to do after college
Learn Law Better is helping law students get better grades and prepare for the bar exam.

[@londonwatson7342]

"Depression and heightened suicidal behavior" already half way there 😂

[@klaynneconstantino1444]

L.B. Watson Haha this needs more likes!!

[@islip376]

😂😂😂

[@frederickwalzer5555]

Not only depression but pelvic dysfunction too which is a rare syndrome. I have been having this pain for years and there is no conventional doctor that can help me with a solution. I concluded that it is an existential disease. In the clinic I go to for therapy, I saw many lawyers suffering from this terrible pain caused by stress.

[@victorbaizan9855]

😆lol

[@slime5121]

Facts; I’ve got that disadvantage figured out. What’s next?

[@randallmcgrath9345]

I ended up liking this guy's personality in literally like 10 seconds how is that even possible?

[@ryanordmandy]

it was the pillows

[@tfhaya]

ikr

[@dianalinares9037]

I liked him in the first second i heard him lol \\

[@joenawar9363]

Same

[@randallmcgrath9345]

@@ryanordmandy you're onto something there for sure.

[@carlericvonkleistiii2188]

Law school was probably the most fun 3 years of my life. Other lawyers look at me like I'm crazy when I tell them that.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Same here--loved my time in law school. Spent one additional year getting an LLM.

[@aalegalfocus]

Sure, I had fun too (Georgetown law, DC!). But then after graduation, life began to go downhill for quite a while. Actual practice is nothing like being a student. Please see my videos for more information about my travails as a lawyer.

[@carlericvonkleistiii2188]

@Ankan.B Law school takes 3 years. You have to have a 4 year college degree first, though.

[@jess_bounce]

I loved it too. Studying for finals was stressful, but I loved nearly all my courses. I also really enjoyed being around so many intelligent people, both students and professors. And I met some of my closest friends.

[@carlericvonkleistiii2188]

@@jess_bounce We partied like 1999. I didn't party so much in undergrad.

[@vincentvangoghaway7778]

Pros: Learn Critical Thinking Prestige Wealth Cons: Expensive Don't make much money out of law school, hard to find work, can live comfortably middle-class Work-Life Balance Personal problems such as depression Tips: Talk to lawyers to see if law is right for you If you are going into law to fight for something specific, think about how realistic that actually is Find out what lawyers in your desired career path actually do Do not go to law school because you don't know what you want to do after undergraduate school

[@kianman5004]

is the money really true, I've heard lawyers make a very good income

[@Learnlawbetter]

It depends on the lawyer. Most lawyers make more than the national median salary. But few lawyers make lots of money. And those that do tend to work incredibly long hours.

[@ngocbuithao7481]

I like

[@dathunderman4]

You may not be making that much money if you can’t get into a good law school. That’s not to say that it’s impossible because people have made lots of money despite coming from an unknown school, but the law profession generally puts a lot of emphasis onto the name brand of your school. This is important to know, don’t think that you’re destined for a 6 figure career just got because you got into any law school. Pretty much any college grad can get into some law school somewhere granted he/she takes the LSAT and gets at least a few questions correct.

[@lisizchen1029]

@@Learnlawbetter just like the writer who wrote "Jurassic Park".He graduated from medical school.However,he didn't practice as a doctor.He earned big killing! Not bad to major in law! You can change the world effectively and wisely, or at least you can secure your own rights. Law only helps those who master it.

[@coddoctor9374]

Could you do a video on different types of law? I want to go to law school but I’m not sure what kind of law to look into. Love the videos!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Let me put this on my list of future topics and think about it. The reality is that there are lawyers that do all types off work, in just about every field. I was taking the train into DC some years ago, and I started talking to the person next to me. She was an attorney who did work for the NItrous Oxide (i.e., "laughing gas") association. That's when it dawned on me how varied the legal profession is.

[@coddoctor9374]

Learn Law Better Thanks so much!

[@danielglatz1643]

Don’t go. Unless you are very passionate about a specific area of the law. Do. Not. Go.

[@rogervonstruve6065]

Hey CodDoctor, why doncha become a Medical Doctor, then at least you won't starve. Three kinds of law: criminal (protecting liberty interests), civil (all about the moolah), and poverty law (your own).

[@Sky_TEC_Illustraition_Systems]

Live in a homeless shelter for a year. You'll find out right lickity split which law school you should go to.

[@nanabekoe-sakyijr.6855]

I do not usually comment on videos, but this was truly the BEST video I have seen about law school thus far. Objective information that points to the realities of the course of study, without outright crushing dreams. I appreciate that balance greatly.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thanks for commenting! Glad that my approach is useful.

[@delightedbyu1]

I agree with you Nana, so much negativity out there regarding this profession.

[@anitaknight3915]

@@Learnlawbetter if teaching law ever gets stale for you, I think making videos with valuable content is your next calling ; )

[@isatakargbo6766]

True

[@blakeb4583]

my dad graduated top of his class from the University of Texas School of Law and did very well for himself. He went to work as a tax attorney for Western Petroleum (now World Fuel Services) and was making $250k a year in the 90s which is unreal

[@Learnlawbetter]

He went to a great law school. Interestingly, those who work for large corporations can make lots more than those who work for Big Law.

[@omarmadhloom2602]

Studying law isn't just about monetary gain. Lawyers uphold social and economic justice and the rule of law. It's unfortunate society views success in terms of financial success.

[@yoonminislifeu1093]

What does a tax attorney do?

[@Learnlawbetter]

It’s a broad field. First, there are different taxes that one can specialize in: federal, state, local, or international. Then there are tax types: income, sales, property, etc... Most tax attorneys do planning, but some do litigation.

[@natnit608]

Ok boomer

[@damianmurgatroyd5130]

This was a brilliant video. The best on KZbin and it’s not even a competition. Keep up the great work, you earned a new subscriber.

[@dblessed8783]

Love your short and very informative videos; straight to the point. Thank you

[@OiVinn-eq1ml]

One of the best videos out there. Can you make another video doing even more deeper on each topic? Mostly pros

[@dealstogo2649]

Great video! Spend time walking around with a lawyer---litigator, criminal lawyer and an estate or tax lawyer.

[@BrunoCosta-pw5hj]

That's been very helpful. Thanks a lot for the video.

[@1983erickjz]

Outstanding insights and very down to earth recommendations and pros and cons for any prospective law school student

[@stuckupcurlyguy]

I honestly don't know if law school taught me more critical thinking than my BA. I felt swamped in the reading most of the time, to the point that I did not feel I had time to reflect on it much. I usually felt guilty about not reading everything and this hampered my class participation, and I was scared of being wrong. The essays in exams helped but were no different to BA essays, and the time pressure made them feel rushed and sub standard. I know if I had given myself over completely to study I would have enjoyed law school more, but I couldn't stand spending so many hours in the dry, dry material. Law school taught me resilience more than anything else.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Interesting. What was your BA major? Most undergraduate exams are different from law school exams.

[@stuckupcurlyguy]

@@Learnlawbetter I was a history major, so I suppose I wrote a lot of essays. The exams I had in law school were a mixture of essays, which did not feel new, and case problems, which were genuinely different and made me think. I suppose the "step-by-step" process I had to use in those problems, of checking the legal boxes until reaching a grey area, helped to develop my critical thinking, but I don't think I lacked that ability to think things through before law school. Maybe to other people those thought processes do not come so naturally. My main problems came from studying consistently and staying motivated, something I never really nailed.

[@stuckupcurlyguy]

@@Learnlawbetter thank you for the reply by the way

[@profoundbathroomgraffiti]

@@Learnlawbetter I don't know why but I can help thinking a lawyer who says that he has much better critical thinking skills than a cohort of PhDs is a tad self aggrandizing. I would love to see this guy walk into a room of science and engineering graduates and see if this shit flies...

[@vanessagarcia1784]

Hey LBL, I appreciate your honesty and your organized though process. This type of material is hard to find and it most certainly is needed. Thank you !!!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad I can help. And if you have ideas for new videos, send me a shout out.

[@animal5602]

thank you for your insight. it was very helpful, and answered many questions i had.

[@Hunter-ef4ch]

It took me earning my MBA to realize I was running from my passion for law bc I was scared of failing at many steps along the journey of law school. This week I made the decision to just jump into it with no hesitation😄

[@Learnlawbetter]

That’s great! Hope you do well. The MBA will provide some context for you in some courses.

[@vladislavrabski9156]

Thank you very much for your objective video, really helped me to understand better the subject.

[@arasisa2908]

I want to pursue my studies in law school because I want to deeply understand the law. I know it's not that easy but what really motivates me is that what can I do to help not only myself but for others also as they're being neglected in the due of process of the law while others abused it.

[@franceclan5598]

Hey you are one of the first few lawyers that spoke and made sense👍Look forward from r your next video

[@Learnlawbetter]

That's awesome. And thanks for watching.

[@nat13314]

Thank you for these awesome videos!

[@giorgimindeli8373]

I found it really helpfull thank u,im 11 th grader i was thinking ab architecture since i was kid but few months ago doubt kicked in and i thought about law school.thanks for ur advice

[@ElTanques]

I used to take law classes I failed the class,but I learned alot!

[@ANON-G]

Very insightful. Thank you.

[@aalegalfocus]

Thanks for sharing some candid remarks about the legal profession. It's nothing like how TV shows and movies present life as a lawyer. We aren't always handling big, interesting cases and having trials all the time (unless you do criminal law). Glad you touched on the stress and depression rampant in our profession, as well as the bad job market.

[@jimmie-satx]

This is a brilliant video. Thank you for keeping this posted.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@christinethompson4587]

This helped me a lot! Thank you for doing these videos

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad I could help. And if you have any ideas for new videos please send them along.

[@juliadomna2400]

Professor Baez, thank you so much for the amazing content found on your channel. I’ve been binge watching your videos ever since I applied to the University at Buffalo School of Law for the fall semester last month. I know it’s not the greatest law school or carry any weight to many, however, it’s close to home and it’s low tuition (25,000) was incredibly attractive. Today, I received an email informing me of my acceptance! So overjoyed to start this new chapter in my life. Reading many of the books you have recommended in other videos! I look forward to future videos :) Have a blessed day.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Congratulations on the acceptance. Being price conscious and close to home are two good things. Thanks for watching. Been swamped, but just finished editing a new video which comes out on Wednesday.

[@tstaps4032]

You're super helpful thank you for making these videos!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thanks! If you have any ideas for new content feel free to let me know.

[@tstaps4032]

Learn Law Better I just finished reading the book One L, and I was wondering how you would avoid, cope, or overcome “burning out” in law school? Possibly as a video idea!

[@shellyinthestudy]

This is super helpful. I want to go to law school, already completed my LSAT but I’m taking a year off to work and save money. I got my undergrad in political science but couldn’t find any work in that field other than research assistant. I think it’s best to take time off to save up, or maybe retake your LSAT to get a better scholarship so it helps with cost. Also get an idea of what law you want to go into. I’d like to be an entertainment attorney because There are so many rappers who need legal representation when it comes to brand deals and contracts. You have no idea how many people I know who are in talks with record labels and have no idea what even a contract entails. I took 2 contract courses in my undergrad and kind of fell in love with the idea of drafting contracts. Find what you like about law there are so many different avenues

[@Learnlawbetter]

Sounds like you have a good plan. To improve your LSAT score, keep doing practice exams-you can improve by figuring out how to answer the questions.

[@jamieg6978]

Wow. When he said he only had 7 payments left after 20 plus year . It really dawned on me where I’m at .

[@mtmanagement3868]

That’s it. I’m doing it . I’m becoming a lawyer

[@MissFlurryWong]

After working in law firm for almost 4 years, I think this is the most sincere video that everyone must watch before decide to go to law school!! People want to enter to this career because of high return but they don't know how suffer they will get from working. Thank you for making this video.

[@yadiraesquivel3041]

this really helped me choose what i want as a career, as a senior in high school, it’s tough to figure out what i want to do in life. but now i know law school would not be a good fit for me, thank you for the video! (:

[@BigYinthestu]

What did you decide on ?

[@yadiraesquivel3041]

Yaseen I chose to go into the field of psychology and eventually become a psychiatrist (:

[@mariyam3613]

Phycology and law these are my two choices as well, hows your phycology major going so far and what do you plan to do, are you planning to get a PhD in the future?

[@zahriahkaharah2034]

Yeah it’s a no for me...I’ll be better off helping my community through the nonprofits I have planned. Good luck to everyone who goes to law school. A close relative recently got their law degree. That ish takes hard work! Best wishes! This video was VERY helpful. Thank you.

[@katherinnekovach8098]

I loved this video! Very objective. Also, the pillows were a great touch!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad you like the pillows!

[@roselina708]

Thanks for all of your videos!!! I learned a lot

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thanks for letting me know.

[@horiahouria9748]

Thank you for your help 👏

[@stanmanduna6355]

Thank you so much for the clarity

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad I can help.

[@DavidAdarmases12]

I didn't go to law school because of a video I saw on YT: "If you're not 100% you want to go to law school, don't go." I took that to heart, and I'm glad I did in retrospect.

[@hyojinlee]

This is great. Thank you so much!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad it was helpful!

[@NoeliaNava]

This was a great video! Thank you so much!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@mr.goodwinmbamacc4494]

Good video. Especially about working in a law firm first in some capacity.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Yes, you should have an idea of what you are getting into before you spend lots of time and money pursuing this path.

[@cammysmith7562]

Life lesson for anyone who wants to do law and not become a lawyer, a degree in law takes you anywhere, it takes you far in business, HR, leadership and management roles, and it makes you sick out from the crowd. I did a UK law degree so it only cost me about 30 grand nowhere near the US amount, and if I did it in Scotland it would have cost me 10 grand.

[@rogervonstruve6065]

Don't agree. The Ivy League MBA is the key to all that in the 🇺🇸

[@cronicjointpain1]

Thanks for the tip. I'll have to look into that. I'm passionate about the law, but not sure I would want to be a lawyer.

[@maryjean-vb8bm]

So I'm going to go to SCOTLAND or UK.

[@justheretowatch1666]

Wished I came across your videos before law school. Nothing really prepared me for the rampant depression and anxiety caused by a legal recession in the market, and I finished my degree feeling extremely disillusioned with a legal career. Decided to work in an international law firm, and the problems were amplified, especially since you’re expected to be on call 24/7. It’s a great area to get into if you really love the grind and the challenge, but sadly not many people last too long or get out healthy. Really concise and comprehensive video, thank you.

[@Learnlawbetter]

The practice of law is full of dysfunction😥

[@wenxinding1634]

Love this video. Thanks a lot!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad it could help.

[@kwesibrown3176]

Very informative, I appreciate this video.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad it helped, and thanks for watching.

[@sofiesrensen4868]

I'm honestly so grateful that law school in my country is free. I've never really thought of it even being an obstacle, but you talking about student loans and such really puts it in perspective

[@Learnlawbetter]

The education is free to you, but it’s not free. Your neighbours are paying for the education. The problem in the US is that the government subsidizes an unlimited amount of student loans. Over the last few years, a few people are graduating from medical school with over $1 million in student loans.

[@hornetguy9063]

Learn Law Better yeah this is a great post. People need to quit this “free” talk. It’s subsidized. Also, I 100% agree that we’d see a huge drop in schooling costs if the federal government quit subsidizing the schools and their prices. But financing is psychological. If the price of Law school was $20k a year and you had no one to finance it, you’d likely be a lot less likely to dive in. But instead we tell kids that it’s only a loan payment of $860 a month a few years in the future, and they sign the dotted line. I really liked this video for younger people than I, who may be interested in law school. You come off as extremely friendly, but honest

[@Edmund._.Dantes]

4:42 exactly what I want to do lol I'm a bit nervous now of the legal recession

[@Learnlawbetter]

There are many job openings, but there is a glut of lawyers. You need to figure out how to get top grades to position yourself for a good job.

[@albertbarese4170]

Chopper Morton Take off the tinfoil hat, and stop typing in all caps

[@Krakin3]

Thanks for the video! I am trying to figure it out if law school is the way. This helped me a lot. I live in Europe, we don't have to pay any students debts, which is nice. But I still have no idea about what proffesion will be the best for me. I love that law school is kinda universal in this. Anyway thanks again, I am closer to making my final decision.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Most lawyers love talking to students. Ask a few for some time to chat, then ask them what their typical day looks like. Too many people go into law for the wrong reasons. I wish you well on your journey.

[@MONSTERMATT-rw6lb]

Very informative video thanks

[@shreeyamsa488]

You said you would get back to the topic “wealth” and tell us more about it in a moment. This definitely helped me a lot. I am a sophomore in high school and I want to become a lawyer:))

[@Learnlawbetter]

Very few lawyers become wealthy, which unfortunately is why many go to law school. Most lawyers live comfortable lives in the middle class, unless they have to borrow all of the money for their education.

[@thiswasposted120]

i’ve always wanted to be a family lawyer and this is quite informative. money has never been much of a thought for me but as long as i’m getting a decent enough salary then i’m fine with that tbh

[@Learnlawbetter]

Law is a business. Either you work for someone else and make less money, or try to run your own business.

[@arbitrarylib]

Wonderful structured video

[@westlock]

You could also suggest that a youngster attend a real trial from beginning to end, just to see how tedious it is compared to a legal drama in a movie. Once at a social event, Samuel Johnson said "I would be loath to speak ill of any person who I do not know deserves it, but I am afraid he is an attorney."

[@dannyamando7375]

Court experience and reading more pleadings and law books could learn you more

[@micagonzales6959]

My favorite vedio on YT so far! Thanks for this!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad I could help.

[@BossChronicles]

Over saturated job market high tuition rates at least in California where I live

[@Learnlawbetter]

Let me know what other advantages and disadvantages there are to going to law school.

[@pramita1400]

Learn Law Better Respected sir , I need your help...I want to work for UN , therefore law seems to be the only option for me ...I scored 3.89 GPA in school , and will be persuing political science (as majors ) from Delhi . Is Studying law abroad a good idea ? I am not that rich but I am confident about my merit , I have sports certificates too (national level) ...please respond am in dilemma .

[@Learnlawbetter]

I don’t know what kind of credentials are needed to work for the UN. I suspect that lawyers make up a very small percentage of their staff. I recommend that you try to find someone that works for the UN and ask them how they got their job. Also, you probably need personal connections to get in. Sorry I don’t know more about their hiring practices.

[@pramita1400]

Learn Law Better thank you so much sir for responding. I have time so i'll make sure I take right decision. But really your videos are so helpful and fascinating ...god bless you

[@dena2342]

Learn Law Better hello... want to know if you having a criminal record can stop you from going to law school please and thank you.

[@Learnlawbetter]

It depends on the seriousness of the crime. Law schools don't want to admit students who will not be able to pass the character and fitness requirement to join the bar. So if someone committed murder or serious financial crimes, like embezzlement, then it will be hard to get into law school. The key is to fully disclose the crime in the application process. The law school can then make an informed decision, taking into account what they know of the state bar entrance requirements. Always fully disclose. Failing to disclose indicates a lack of honest, which will keep you from getting admitted.

[@badvideoeditor]

I'm 14 and being a lawyer is something I always kind of wanted to achieve when I would be done with high-school despite the disadvantages. Still sort of researching so this was useful.

[@kmay6605]

15 and same. I’m almost positive I want to become a lawyer but I have no idea what I would major in for my four year college degree and the entire process is a bit confusing…needless to say lawyer KZbin videos is becoming a new hobby of mine

[@raeban7295]

Highly recommend majoring in psychology

[@jazminreyes2107]

Could you do a video in which you talk about immigration law and the specifics of that career path. Great videos !

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thanks for the idea. Let me think about that one.

[@jackiepyzocha7380]

I like writing legal briefs. I took Business Law 1,2. I will look into volunteering with local lawyers before continuing my education.I have two Associate Degrees. I love to read, ask "Why" questions and think analytically. Would I be an asset to law school? A great lawyer?

[@obsidiansheep]

this helped a lot.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Excellent! I hope it helps you pick the right path for you.

[@andyhawkins7988]

My cousin went to Law School, but then went into Investment Banking right after graduation.

[@aaronmassey7464]

great video!

[@juancarlosaliba4866]

Better Call Saul illustrates EVERYTHING you said about what law practice is about! Thanks for this Prof. Baez! You should give your comment on this masterpiece by Vince Gilligan. It's all good man!

[@BrantK147]

Hi! First of all, thank you for taking the time to produce these videos, they're really helpful. I am 29 years old and work as an in-house translator for State Farm (a lot of grammatical analysis, research and editing in a cubicle). I'm thinking about applying to law school next year. Any advice for someone my age? Do you know people who started this late and who have successful careers? Is it a good idea in your opinion? To give a little bit more context, I have a B.A. in Applied Languages from the Université de Lyon in France (graduated in 2012) and I immigrated to the U.S. 3 years ago (from Bolivia which is where I'm from). I now live in Dallas, Texas. Moreover, I would have to get a loan to pay for it all.

[@Learnlawbetter]

You are still young enough to have a full and fruitful legal career. As you know, there is an oversupply of lawyers. There are still many jobs, but you would be much better off at a top law school. Make sure you spend lots of time preparing for the LSAT, and take a prep course.

[@talhahahmed7971]

Thanks for making the wonderful and realistic video. Can you please mention, which side of law one should pick, if one wants to travel more than sitting behind a desk?

[@Learnlawbetter]

Most lawyers sit behind a desk all day long. A friend of mine started with the Navy JAG corp, where the Navy moved him from base to base--he would spend a few weeks at one base, handle the legal issues, then on to the next base. Another possibility is working for a non-profit that does litigation. That might get you some travel for trial work. As you become more senior, there are non-profit positions that are primarily fund raising, so you go to different cities to speak to various groups.

[@michaelshaleen6565]

Thank you!

[@JudgeCommitee-ck5wq]

It is a good thing, and then April we will have the Interdiction Trust to distinguish us among our peers.

[@flowerduet8964]

This was GREAT. I start with law school this year and i don't know what to expect, because i don't know somebody who finished law school so do you have some advice for me about how to start and what to expect at the beginning. In addition to that i don't go to law school because i wanted that, but i don't hate it because i want go become diplomat so it is not bad for me to study law, and in my spare time i also study languages.

[@nidhianand6147]

Hey! I loved this video. Could you please make a video about US law schools for international students?

[@Learnlawbetter]

Sounds like a good idea. I’ll place it in my list of future topics.

[@kirahinchey2292]

Love your videos!

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thanks

[@joeblow9657]

The last part I disagree with somewhat. Anyone who has worked retail in college knows that it will break you down mentally and you won't get further ahead financially, especially if you have student loans from undergrad or live on your own. I think doing your research and sitting on your decision is a great idea but being stuck working a low paying, part time service and going nowhere in life isn't worth it from a strategic perspective. The longer you work a crappy job the more likely you're screwed for life.

[@seanm660]

I definitely want to get a J.D. however I’m not entirely sure I want to be a practicing attorney. Maybe public defender - I know it doesn’t pay well, but it’s needed I guess. Lots of options. Thanks for the video! It was very helpful.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Sean Milko I have lots of respect for those that become public defenders. I would have a problem defending the guilty, especially if they were not convicted. So my hat’s off to you for considering doing this important work. Make sure to keep costs down so you can afford to go into this line of work.

[@Cockeyed_Den8213]

I am subscribing because of my grand daughter she has started a job at a lawyers office and is going to school for a paralegal and hopes of making the money to go for a lawyer later she is 16 right now. So if you see comment from this name it may be her so please be kind.

[@igcommenthub]

Very informative thanks very much

[@Learnlawbetter]

Glad I can help.

[@cristobalfernandeziv]

Hello fellow lawyer, nice to see your video about law school. I'm from the Philippines and I am a lawyer but I chose an off court path. I'm in the education and academe sector though I practiced in a short time here. My father was a trial lawyer and he wanted me to pursue the legal profession. However, teaching was my first love, so when he unfortunately passed away, I discontinued practice and began teaching in the college level. Law school is definitely tough but I got motivated by my father. God bless you sir.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Great to hear that you found your passion. Too many people go into law only to find it's not for them.

[@royalty9974]

finally ... I just want to be a lawyer. can you do more videos about how one can be trained into critical thinking or something like qualities of a law student

[@Learnlawbetter]

I'll have to think about this a bit more. Right off the bat, I recommend that you read the Socratic Dialogues by Plato. Read through them carefully, and follow Socrates arguments. He slowly builds up a case, until he traps his opponents. This will show you how to start thinking a few steps ahead of others, which is what you need to do in law school.

[@royalty9974]

+Learn Law Better ok thanks a lot

[@danielgregg2530]

I usually don't recommend that people become lawyers, EXCEPT: (1) if the individual is somebody who impresses me as especially competitive, the kind of person who would argue over the price of a loaf of bread at the supermarket if there was some real chance that maybe the bread actually might have been mis-priced for some reason; or (2) the person is a superior engineer / engineering student or comparable technical or scientific type who impresses me with such intellectualism that they might enjoy patent or intellectual property law. People who are too idealistic or even merely too judgmental and/or not competitive enough way too often eventually become very unhappy as lawyers (and typically sooner rather than later).

[@davidsoto4394]

Could you do a video where you interview different kinds of lawyers that are still in practice.

[@Learnlawbetter]

I was thinking about that earlier today. Thanks for the reminder to seek out a few lawyers.

[@davidsoto4394]

Professor, how did you have the patience to study for so many hours at a time as a law student?

[@adanne-vx2yn]

Hey there, I really appreciated this video :) It gave me a lot to think about. I will be starting medical school this fall. However, I have always been interested in studying law Do you think I could try to pursue a masters degree in law if/when I finish with my medical school residency and/or fellowship? I just think understanding law could help make me a better physician especially when it comes to business and contracts, etc Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks! :)

[@Learnlawbetter]

Unless you are going into academia, I would not do that. At some point you need to think about how many years till retirement. You can learn contacts and business by reading and going to conferences once you become a physician.

[@ChristophProbst]

I am so grateful that my state offers an apprentice program in lieu of law school.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Make sure you prepare the right way for the bar exam. When I practiced in Virginia, which has an apprentice program, the bar passage rate was around 50%

[@user-gr2oq7tu1d]

watching from korea such an informative video😀😀

[@Learnlawbetter]

Thank you! By the way, would subtitles in Korean help?

[@user-gr2oq7tu1d]

@@Learnlawbetter sure yeah!! quite a few students in korea are interested in us lawschools but for me i prefer just listening without subtitles to improve my english skills! p.s your explanation is so clean and beneficial!! Thanks

[@shariecebrewster5962]

Yeah I am working on It's here in be lawyer

[@schnioula]

These pillows sent me! 😂 Cute guy!

[@mikeylejan8849]

Engineering is already tuff and I will study law too!

[@Learnlawbetter]

It’s rare, but some do. Especially for those that want to get into patent law.

[@fidannamazova4538]

Oh my gosh,u look like Angel from La casa de papel so much :O ( I'm a simple law student who likes to watch dalis)

[@pkmntrainerred4247]

Wow, thanks for your useful information, explanations and advice. Right now I have decided to think of the job of a Prosecutor as my future career but have some little doubts, especially on whether I will do good enough, though I think I will do pretty good considering I have most qualities of the skill set required, and how the day-to-day professional and personal life of Prosecutors usually goes. I am really passionate but want to make sure I won't regret it later. Thank you for a objective advice and look into this topic.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Make sure you talk to a few prosecutors. Ask them what their typical day looks like.

[@pkmntrainerred4247]

@@Learnlawbetter Thanks! I was also thinking that this is the only best way to clear my doubt.

[@pkmntrainerred4247]

@@Learnlawbetter I have some more questions about prosecuting now, I`ll ask one: Can Prosecutors interview witnesses about the case before or outside the trial? I mean can prosecutor talk to & ask about the details of the case witnesses know BEFORE and OUTSIDE the trial? I know the US laws & my country's laws differ to some extent but I just want to knwo it since I am not getting proper answer to my law related questions from internet.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Prosecutors interview witnesses before they ever decide to try a case.

[@pkmntrainerred4247]

@@Learnlawbetter Hmmm... thanks for replying, I think I`ve found a answer! I`ve been searching on the internet for credible sources to answer my questions about what prosecutors can do & cannot do, but its hard to find them... but I think a very important question in my mind got answered, so thank you sir!

[@williamburton757]

In terms of ways to keep law school affordable, you didn't mention the option of taking a few years after undergrad to serve as an Officer in the Armed Forces. Beyond giving access to the GI Bill which is nice (but should never be a person's primary reason for joining the military. you should join the military because you want to be in the military), very few other options can provide a new college grad with as much leadership experience and responsibility out-the-gate like a commission in the Army or Marine Corps can.

[@OEB__94]

Very good info

[@johnjaychellah9443]

This is great

[@chriswood9754]

This is all explained in the context of caution which is helpful, but can also be discouraging.

[@Learnlawbetter]

It was a hard episode to make. At some level, I believe people should pursue their dreams and become what they want to become. But I've seen lawyers unable to practice law because of marketplace realities. One lawyer I ran into was working as an assistant manager at a self-storage place. Because there are more graduates than jobs, there will be those kinds of stories for some time. Even graduates from elite law schools are having problems finding employment right now.

[@anthonybanton9826]

I really appreciate you doing a video on the subject of, "Should I Go to Law School?" I recall in another video you mentioning that you went to law school at Georgetown? What are you thoughts on Georgetown's Law School? What was your experience like? Finally, as a working adult, I am curious to know your thoughts on Georgetown's Part-Time Evening Program? Any feedback provided would be greatly appreciated.

[@Learnlawbetter]

I believe that Georgetown is the only elite law school with a part time program. You will find that the education at the T14 are all about the same. What gives Georgetown an edge is location. It is blocks from the Capitol, Supreme Court, and numerous government agencies. This means that you get adjunct faculty who are agency leaders and great job opportunities.

[@zyrob3435]

Currently in my second semester of law school and I've yet to hit 20 years old. Here in my country, we can take law as an undergrad degree. I read books and even worked at a law firm before going into law school, but even then I was feeling unsure if this was for me. Right now though, I'm enjoying my studies so I don't regret my decision. I guess no amount of preparatory work beats actual studying in figuring out if law school suits you, but you'll never know if you never try. Good luck to those who are considering whether to enter law school!

[@Learnlawbetter]

A few of my JD students earned their first law degree in foreign countries as undergraduates.

[@ili1017]

​@@Learnlawbetter Could you share information on international JD programs?

[@Learnlawbetter]

Not sure what you mean. In the United States, all JD programs must be earned at American law schools. A few other countries, like Australia, are offering JDs, but I don’t know too much about those.

[@bensimmons6149]

Learn Law Better I’m Australian. Our JD is equal to a bachelor of laws.

[@jackpenner3334]

Could you give me any insight into the social communication aspect of law? I’m interested in talking to people and putting my extroverted personality to good use, but not all the time. What % of the time would you expect lawyers are talking to others?

[@johnlevine3210]

PhD graduates are critical thinkers, in order to complete their dissertation they have to create a new contribution to their field of study. You can't do that without a lot of critical thinking

[@midlander8186]

He said he met with thirty Ph.D.'s. Does anyone-- one of the commenters, possibly-- know the fields in which these people held doctorates? I'm a high school math teacher, and I must say, the quality of scholarship in the education field is embarrassingly bad.

[@thefingerofgod69]

His blanket statement that phds are not trained to think critically calls into question his own ability to think critically.

[@lostbeyondpluto]

Spot on with this video. Very honest and accurate. I'm a young lawyer myself and it's too late for me to reverse that, but at least anyone else who is considering pursuing this career path can benefit from these points. It wasn't worth it for me and I've joined the military and have had to go back to university to get qualified in a different profession. I have a video about my experiences too, which were (spoiler alert): just as dismal as this video puts it.

[@lawreadyforthis-syl-1130]

What job in the military have you switched to?

[@lostbeyondpluto]

​@@lawreadyforthis-syl-1130 I'm an Army officer (recently promoted to Captain) and while I'm infantry trained, I work for the Legal Corps, so the degree did come into some use, I suppose.

[@lawreadyforthis-syl-1130]

lostbeyondpluto that’s really cool congrats. I’m in the USMC!

[@lostbeyondpluto]

@@lawreadyforthis-syl-1130 that's awesome! and thanks :)

[@pianissimo34]

Can you still become a lawyer if you're shy or reserved? I'm interested in law but I'm worried that it may not fit my personality.

[@Learnlawbetter]

Very few lawyers interact with the public. There are many lawyers who work for corporations or the government, and tend to be shy. Might be harder to get that first job though.

[@pulp735]

1000000000% yes. Most lawyers and law students are NOT socially skilled. Most I have encountered and worked with are very introverted, anal, and socially awkward. If I had dispell the biggest myth about being a lawyer, it's that they are smoothe, outgoing, and fast talking. Most are decidedly not this way! Of course there are exceptions and they probably stand out because they fit the stereotype, but it is a grossly inaccurate stereotype in general.

[@fiddlesticksbessette398]

JUST DO WHAT THE HELL YOU WANT TO DO.BE CRITICAL,AND LEARN CRITICAL THINK'ING,THAT IS 86% OF BECOMEING A LAWYER☼

[@anitaknight3915]

@@pulp735 I think this stereotype was further exaggerated by the law shows lol especially law and order & suits series personalities!! Some lack common sense, emotional intelligence, and people skills that I've met.

[@LawyerYouKnow]

This is such a great question!