Should I Go to Law School? Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Law Degree
Thinking about pursuing a law degree? Before you make a decision, it’s important to consider both sides of the coin. We’ll explore some great reasons why pursuing a law degree can be the right choice for you, from pursuing a specific field to making a difference in the world. However, we’ll also discuss some reasons why law school may not be the best fit for everyone, from disliking studying to being overly opinionated. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of whether pursuing a law degree is the right choice for you. Let’s get started!
4 Reasons to Go to Law School
If you’re considering pursuing a law degree, you might be wondering why you should take the leap. Well, let’s talk about some great reasons that could motivate you to enroll in law school.
- Pursuing a Particular Field of Law
Some people already have a particular interest in a specific field of law, such as international law or family law. Maybe they’ve done some research, volunteered in a free clinic, or had personal experiences that have ignited their passion for that field. Pursuing a law degree is an excellent way to gain knowledge and expertise in that area.
- Making a Difference
If you want to make a difference in the world, pursuing a law degree can provide you with the tools to do so. With a law degree, you can take a stance on issues related to human rights, political fields, or any other area that you feel passionate about. You can fight for your rights, your family’s rights, and the rights of those around you.
- Understanding the Law
Another great reason to go to law school is simply to understand the law. Knowing what’s allowed and what’s not allowed can be valuable in many aspects of life. Understanding how to fight for your rights and the rights of others is crucial, and a law degree can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Pursuing Different Concentrations
If you’ve been watching legal dramas on TV, you might have developed an interest in prosecuting the bad guys or defending those who can’t afford a lawyer. These are great reasons to pursue a law degree. Even if you don’t have a specific concentration in mind, that’s okay. You can study different areas of law, such as civil law, litigation, intellectual property, and international law, and then decide which area you want to focus on later.
4 Reasons to NOT Go to Law School
We’ve talked about some great reasons to pursue a law degree. But let’s talk about the other side of the coin: the reasons why pursuing a law degree may not be a good fit for you.
- Just Wanting to Make Money
Some people pursue a law degree simply because they think lawyers are rich, and they want to be rich too. While it’s true that some lawyers make a lot of money, it’s not a good reason to go to law school. Law school requires a lot of hard work and dedication, and it takes time to actually start earning a substantial income from it.
- Disliking Studying
Law school involves a lot of reading, memorizing, and studying. If you don’t enjoy these activities or find them challenging, law school may not be the best fit for you. It’s important to be honest with yourself and assess whether you’re willing to put in the necessary work to succeed in law school.
- Disliking Debating
Lawyers need to be good at debating and understanding both sides of an argument. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy engaging in debates or discussing opposing viewpoints, pursuing a law degree may not be the best fit for you. Having strong reasoning and logical skills is crucial for success in law school.
- Being Overly Opinionated
While having strong opinions can be a positive trait, being overly opinionated may not always be beneficial in law school. Lawyers need to understand the facts and be able to articulate both sides of an argument effectively. Being able to defend someone you don’t necessarily agree with is an essential part of being a lawyer.
Final Questions to Ask Yourself
If you’re still unsure, there are some important questions you can ask yourself to help make that determination.
- Why Do You Want to Be a Lawyer?
- What Will You Change After Graduating?
- Are You Passionate About Law?
- What Will You Do with a Law Degree After Graduating?
- Do You Admire Any Lawyers?
By asking yourself these questions and taking the time to reflect on your answers, you can gain a better understanding of whether pursuing a law degree is the right choice for you. Remember, law school is a significant investment of time, money, and effort. Make sure you’re pursuing it for the right reasons and with a clear understanding of your goals and ambitions.
In conclusion, pursuing a law degree may not be the best fit for everyone. It’s important to assess your strengths, weaknesses, and personal preferences before deciding whether law school is the right choice for you. Don’t pursue a law degree simply for the potential income or prestige associated with it. Only pursue a law degree if you have a genuine passion for the law and the dedication to succeed in it.
If you do decide to pursue a law degree, review the top questions asked by students considering law school.