As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, all lawyers in the US must graduate with a Juris Doctorate that has been accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). A lawyer cannot practice law without passing the State Bar Exam. The basic duty of a lawyer is to advise their clients and represent them in the court of law.
Should I Become a Lawyer in Tennessee?
If you are a resident of Tennessee or want to work in this state as a Lawyer, you must meet all the requirements set by the state. For example, pass the State Bar Exam that is conducted by the Tennessee Bar Association. If the lawyers do not obtain a state-issued license, they cannot practice law in the US. More details on this career are explained below.
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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 Tennessee 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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Analytical, Research, Interpersonal, Critical-thinking, Attention-to-detail, Communication, and Problem-solving Skills, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) -
Tennessee
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$124,370 (for all Lawyers)
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) -
National
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$145,300 (for all Lawyers)
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Job Outlook (2018-2028)
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6% (As fast as average)
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Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)
Career Outlook
A 6% rise in employment level for Lawyers has been predicted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics between 2018-2028. Moreover, 657,170 Lawyers were working in the US in 2019, and 7,590 of them were from the state of Tennessee.
Steps to Becoming a Lawyer in Tennessee
Do you want to help the residents of Tennessee resolve their legal issues as a lawyer? If so, then this step-by-step career guide can help you achieve your goal with ease.
Step-1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a lawyer in Tennessee, the first step is the completion of a bachelor's degree. A typical bachelor's degree can be completed in approximately 4 years. It is important that the degree must be accredited by the relevant authorities.
Step-2: Take and Clear the LSAT Exam
The LSAT or the Law School Admission Test must be cleared by all aspiring candidates who want to attend a law school. It is a highly competitive test and if you want to enroll in a well-reputed law school, then you must get an excellent score on this test.
Step-3: Complete a Juris Doctorate (J.D.)
All lawyers must graduate with a Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school. This degree makes lawyers eligible to take the Tennessee State Bar Exam. Many ABA-accredited law schools in Tennessee offer a J.D., such as the University of Tennessee.
Step-4: Clear the Tennessee State Bar Exam
The Tennessee State Bar Association is responsible for regulating the testing process of Bar Exams in this state. All lawyers are required to take permission from the State Board and take the Tennessee State Bar Exam because lawyers cannot get their licenses if they do not pass this exam.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Lawyer in Tennessee?
Becoming a lawyer in Tennessee may take about 7 to 8 years. It takes about 4 years to complete a bachelor’s degree. It is followed by 3 years of law school, and the time required for preparing and clearing the LSAT and the Bar Exam.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Lawyer in Tennessee?
To become a Lawyer in the state of Tennessee, all aspiring candidates must:
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Hold a Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school
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Get permission and pass the Tennessee State Bar Exam
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Have a good moral character
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Not be suspended, disbarred in another state
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Not be the subject of any pending disciplinary action in another state
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Become licensed to practice law in the state of Tennessee
How Much Can I Make as a Lawyer in Tennessee?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Lawyers employed in the state of Tennessee had an annual mean salary of $124,370 in 2019. While the District of Columbia was reported as the highest paying state for this occupation with an annual mean salary of $192,180.