Law Schools: Tips and Stats

Here are some pointers and suggestions to consider while you are looking at law schools.

Smart Choices

Though the economic crisis took its toll on the entire legal industry, certain practice areas may promise more opportunity in the recovery. Bankruptcy and foreclosure, intellectual property, regulatory and compliance, and litigation are all specialties expected to see a lot of action over the next few years, according to Robert Half Legal.

Insider Tip

If you are set on a career in public-interest law, don't let finances stop you. Students with good credit can now fund their entire law education with a mixture of Stafford loans and Grad PLUS loans—both of which are government-run borrowing programs. Better yet, to keep your repayment plan affordable, the government will now tailor it according to your income, if it's low enough. If you're still working in the public or nonprofit sector after 10 years and you've stayed on top of your payments, the rest of your debt can be wiped clean. Find out more about income-based repayment at ibrinfo.org.

Getting In

Study Hard. High LSAT scores and GPAs continue to set top students apart in the admissions process.

Apply Early. Most law schools practice rolling admissions, which means that the earlier you apply, the more openings there are likely to be. Also, try to apply well before scholarship deadlines, even if you don't think you have a shot. Many schools don't ask for any supplemental materials when awarding scholarships, so as long as you apply on time, you'll be considered.

Blog Watch. Many law school admissions offices have blogs where they offer up-to-date information about the school and pointers for applicants. Scout the blogs for insights when crafting your personal statement.

Reality Check

Projections for starting salaries are nearly all reduced for 2010, according to Robert Half Legal. First-year associates at large private law firms can expect to make $106,500 to $131,250, down 5.1 percent from last year's salary estimates • Their counterparts at midsize law firms will bring in between $71,500 and $100,750 annually, while those at the smallest firms will make $49,750 to $73,000 • For sen­ior-level attorneys—those with 10-plus years of experience—incomes will range from $156,250 to $237,000 at large firms, $127,750 to $210,000 at midsize firms, and $88,250 to $145,000 at smaller firms • Salaries for all positions will be highest around the New York, San Francisco, and Washington metropolitan areas.