Law is one of the most respected and well-paid professions in the world. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that Lawyers working in North Dakota made a lucrative annual mean income of $113,280 in 2019.
If you would like to practice law in the ‘Peace Garden State,’ then this comprehensive guide will be of great use to you. It will help you figure out how to become a Lawyer in North Dakota.
Lawyers have to play many demanding roles and are expected to show a strong commitment to high professional standards. If you think that you are honest, fair, and have high integrity, then a career in law would be ideal for you.
Aspiring Lawyers have to undergo years of training before they can start practicing law. The academic and licensing requirements for these professionals are stated below. These guidelines have been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career Outlook
According to BLS, job prospects for Lawyers are forecasted to increase by 6% from 2018 to 2028.
Steps to Become a Lawyer in North Dakota
The steps highlighted below will help you understand how to become a Lawyer in North Dakota.
Step 1: Prepare for Law School
You should pursue a Bachelor's degree with a broad liberal arts background to prepare yourself for the Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. The estimated time to complete the undergraduate degree is four years. Some of the majors that you can choose at the undergrad level include Business, Criminal Justice, Communication, Economics, English, and History.
Step 2: Enroll in a Law School
You will have to ace your Law School Admission Test (LSAT) in order to get into a 3-year long Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. Once you get into this program, you will be required to study several modules, such as International Human Rights Advocacy, Criminal Law, Legal Analysis, and Legal Writing.
Step 3: Take Part in Moot Courts
Apart from focusing on the coursework and theory, you should also try to participate in external and internal moot courts in order to get practical experience. While studying at law school, you might get a chance to interact with practicing judges and attorneys. Networking with them will help you learn more about your chosen profession.
Step 4: Clear the Bar Exam
After passing out from law school, you should start preparing for the bar exam. Good preparation can help you get a good score on this tough exam. If you can clear the bar exam, you will be allowed to practice law in North Dakota.
*For additional information, you should visit the North Dakota Supreme Court's website.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Lawyer in North Dakota?
Becoming a Lawyer in North Dakota takes a lot of effort and time. Individuals have to initially complete a 4-year long undergrad degree, before enrolling in a law school. Then, they have to spend a couple of months preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). After passing this test, the candidate has to apply to law school. It typically takes 3 long years to earn the J.D. degree. After getting the required credentials, candidates have to clear the bar exam and a background check. Those who clear these stages become eligible to practice law in North Dakota.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Lawyer in North Dakota?
'The Peace Garden State' requires aspiring Lawyers to meet a long list of requirements. These are highlighted below.
The individual must:
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Obtain a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or an equivalent degree from an approved law school;
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Be able to pass the bar examination;
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Bear a good moral character;
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Be fit to practice law.
How Much Does a Lawyer Earn in North Dakota?
According to the income figures published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Lawyers working in North Dakota earned an annual mean wage of $113,280 in 2019.