How to Become A Lawyer in The District of Columbia
Learn how to become a lawyer in the District of Columbia with this detailed guide. Here you will find information on the education and training requirements to become a practicing lawyer, along with salary potential.
Should I Become a Lawyer in the District of Columbia?
Lawyers provide legal advice to their clients, which typically includes businesses, individuals, and government agencies. If you want to find out more about this profession, the following table will provide a quick look. All the information presented below has been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2019.
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Education Required
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Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
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Training
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Not mandatory but recommended
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Licenses/Certifications
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Clear the Bar Exam to become a practicing lawyer
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Key Skills/Qualities
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Analytical Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Research Skills, Speaking Skills, Writing Skills, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) - National
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$145,300
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Job Outlook (2018-28)
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6%
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) - District of Columbia
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$192,180
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Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth of 6% for lawyers in the years from 2018 to 2028. This growth will be fueled by a consistent need for legal services by individuals and businesses. The job market for lawyers in the District of Columbia will be great as well, as the state is the highest paying state for this profession. It is also the state with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in this occupation.
Steps to Become a Lawyer in the District of Columbia
Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
This does not need to be in a law-related major. However, taking pre-law courses can certainly be helpful in the future.
Step 2: Pass the LSAT
This is the admission test required by all law schools.
Step 3: Enroll in a Law School
Once you get into a 3-year long law school program, you will study courses such as International Perspective, Legal System, Criminal Law, Contracts, etc. This 3-year long law degree is commonly referred to as a Juris Doctor (JD) and is offered by many colleges.
Step 4: Pass the Bar Exam
Once you clear law school, you will be eligible to appear for your state’s bar exam. Upon clearing this exam, students can begin practicing law at a commercial scale.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Lawyer in the District of Columbia?
It takes approximately 7-8 years to become a lawyer in the District of Columbia. This includes 4 years of an undergraduate degree, followed by 3 years of law school. You will also have to clear the relevant Bar exam.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Lawyer in the District of Columbia?
To become a lawyer, students will have the meet the following requirements:
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Have a law school degree
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Pass the bar exam
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Provide evidence of physical and mental fitness
How Much Does a Lawyer Earn in the District of Columbia?
According to data by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, lawyers in the District of Columbia earned an annual mean income of $192,180 in 2019. This makes the District of Columbia the highest paying state for this profession in the US.