I will be brief: I started in an evening program and then transferred full-time. I think law school was easier in the full-time program than the part-time program.
The full-time program places you into the entire envelope of education. I also worked (part-time) while going to law school (part-time). My schedule was intense.
Unfortunately, first year law school grades matter. I think it is ridiculous that so much weight be given, but they do matter. It behooves you to do as well as you can. I should also mention that those who received scholarships for the first semester typically lost them the second semester due to poor grades.
Law school is not school. It really is not. It is a full-time job (even going part-time). My OPINION is that law school is a BAD investment, both financially and economically. Plesae see my post here ("Do NOT Do It!")
I've done all of my upper level education at night. Being a family man and going to school at night is definitely challenging. I've seen my son grow up all while I attended night school for my undergrad and graduate education. I recently completed my Master's Degree in Sport Management and plan on attending law school part-time. I only pray I can do well enough on the LSAT so a school will give me an opportunity to fulfill my goal of becoming an attorney.
Juanof FL2:39PM May 21, 2009
As a current 1L about to finish my last final of my first year, I must agree with two points in the 'law' section on US News:
1. Part time programs are not a walk in the park. We have the same load as full time students, just spread out a little more so we can also work full time on top of school part time.
2. The 'new' lawyer is going to be someone with multiple degrees and talents. Employers want the mind of two professionals in one body, especially in this tough economy. This is only going to increase the opportunities for other law schools to consider part time programs, because nontraditional law students seek to enhance their first or second careers, and a law education is a great way to do it.
Erin Albertof IN2:25PM May 01, 2009
My night class started with 108 students first night, first semester. By final exam, third semester (last time we ALL had a class together, 58 of us were left. Night law school requires dedication.
And, if you have a family, your report card goes on the refrigerator too.
Q-"Dad, what's with this C+ in commercial paper -- are you doing your homework ?"
A- "This is what happens if you don't get good grades as a kid--you have to keep going when you are a grownup."
My 9 year old was terrified when He got a B in Penmanship- I told him, "I'm a lawyer now, I can fix it just this once."
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Melvin James 6:47PM May 01, 2012
sunrisedatacare 7:04AM March 15, 2010
Barrister of LA 5:17PM February 07, 2010
Juan of FL 2:39PM May 21, 2009
Erin Albert of IN 2:25PM May 01, 2009
Tom G. of IL 5:25PM April 28, 2009