The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Lawyers are highly trained people with a doctoral degree in law. All lawyers must pass the Wisconsin Bar Exam to obtain a license and practice in this state. Their typical duties include providing legal advice to their clients and representing them in a court of law.
Should I Become a Lawyer in Wisconsin?
If you are a resident of Wisconsin or want to work in this state as a Lawyer, you must meet all the requirements set by the state. For example, you must graduate with an ABA-accredited Juris Doctorate and pass the Wisconsin State Bar Exam. Lawyers in the US cannot practice law if they do not possess a state-issued license. More details on this career are explained below.
Education Required
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A doctoral or professional degree (J.D.)
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Major Requirement
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Law
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License/Certification
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Pass the Wisconsin State Bar Exam and get licensed
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Experience/Training
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An internship or volunteer work is recommended
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Key Skills
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Critical-thinking, Attention-to-detail, Communication, Analytical, Research, Interpersonal, and Problem-solving Skills, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) -
Wisconsin
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$129,440
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) -
National
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$145,300
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Job Outlook (2018-2028)
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6%
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Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)
Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics assessed a 6% increase in employment for Lawyers in the US between 2018-2028. While 657,170 lawyers were working in the US in 2019, and 7,970 of them were from the state of Wisconsin.
Steps to Becoming a Lawyer in Wisconsin
Do you want to become a licensed lawyer in the state of Wisconsin? If the answer is yes, then this detailed career guide can help you achieve your goal!
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Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step towards this career is the completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree. This degree can be earned be in any subject. However, completing courses in law is better as they help create a foundation for the advanced curriculum of law school.
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Pass the LSAT Exam
The LSAT is an extremely competitive exam that must be passed by all aspiring candidates who aim to attend law school. If you want to complete your J.D. from a well-renowned law school, then you must get an excellent score in the LSAT exam.
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Get a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) Degree
The doctoral degree in Law is otherwise called the Juris Doctorate (J. D.) which can be completed in about 3 years. It must be accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). Many law schools in Wisconsin offer an ABA-accredited J.D., such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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Become Licensed by Passing the Wisconsin State Bar Exam
The State Bar of Wisconsin is responsible for regulating the legal profession in this state and conducts all Bar Exams. All lawyers must clear the Wisconsin State Bar Exam to get a license to practice law.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Lawyer in Wisconsin?
Becoming a lawyer in Wisconsin may take about 7 to 8 years overall. This duration includes 4 years of a bachelor’s degree, 3 years of J.D. from a law school, and the time involved in preparing and clearing the LSAT and the Bar Exam.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Lawyer in Wisconsin?
To become a Lawyer in the state of Wisconsin, all aspiring candidates must:
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Hold a bachelor’s degree
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Pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
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Graduate from an ABA-accredited Juris Doctorate (J.D.)
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Show fitness and character to practice law in this state
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Clear the Wisconsin State Bar Exam
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Apply, and obtain the Wisconsin lawyer’s license
How Much Can I Make as a Lawyer in Wisconsin?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Lawyers employed in the state of Wisconsin had an annual mean salary of $129,440 in 2019.