How to Become A Lawyer in Alabama
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, highly skilled individuals who are licensed to give consultations and represent people in legal matters are called lawyers.
Should I Become a Lawyer in Alabama?
If you aim to work as a lawyer in Alabama, you must earn a doctoral degree in law (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited institution. A lawyer cannot practice law without a license which can be earned by passing the Bar Exam. Further details on becoming a lawyer are explained below. This information has been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education Required
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A professional degree or doctoral degree
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Major Requirement
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Law
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License/Certification
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Getting licensed is mandatory
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Experience/Training
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Internships or volunteer work
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Key Skills
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Analytical, Communication, Critical-thinking, Research, Interpersonal Problem-solving skills, and Attention-to-detail, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) - Alabama
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$114,240
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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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Career Outlook
A 6% employment growth was predicted for Lawyers in the US between 2018 and 2028 by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state of Alabama was home to 5,900 lawyers in 2019.
Steps to Become a Lawyer in Alabama
If your lifelong dream has been to fight for people who want justice, then this career guide is just for you! Check out this guide to understand how to become a lawyer in Alabama.
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Get a Bachelor’s Degree
After completing high school, you must enroll in a bachelor’s degree. A typical bachelor’s degree can take about 4 years to complete.
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Clear the LSAT
If you want to go to a law school and become a lawyer, you must clear the LSAT exam.
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Earn a Doctoral Degree from a Law School
Once you clear the LSAT, you become eligible to enroll in law school. It is important to remember that the law school must be accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). The doctoral degree is usually referred to as a Juris Doctor (JD) and takes about 3 years to complete.
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Take the Bar Exam and Become Licensed
After graduating from law school, all prospective candidates must take and pass the Alabama State Bar Exam to become licensed as lawyers.
Duration to Become a Lawyer in Alabama
To become a licensed lawyer, you must complete a bachelor’s degree which takes 4 years to complete. This is followed by 3 years to get a JD. Afterward, you must clear a Bar exam and be licensed to practice. So, overall, it may take about 7-8 years for anyone to become a lawyer.
Requirements to Become a Lawyer in Alabama
If you are interested in working as a Lawyer in Alabama, you must:
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Earn a bachelor’s degree that is accredited
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Pass the LSAT to enter law school
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Get a Juris Doctor
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Pass the Alabama State Bar Exam
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Pass a background check
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Become licensed in the state of Alabama
How Much Will I Earn as a Lawyer in Alabama?
In 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Lawyers in Alabama earned $114,240 (annual mean income) in 2019.