Law can be a very demanding profession. The practitioners of law are expected to enter the field with a broad knowledge base of statutes and their varied interpretations. And, it doesn’t end there. Lawyers have to invest considerable effort to remain up to date as new legislations are passed and tested in the courts. As it is in most places around the world, lawyers in Canada are required to complete several years of education in order to obtain a law degree.
Bachelor degree
To become a lawyer in Canada, you first need to complete at least three years of a bachelor’s degree in any course of your choice. Note that you do not have to pursue an LLB; you can choose any bachelor’s degree of your choice. Students in LLB courses, however, are introduced to major disciplines within the field like criminal, constitutional, property and contract law during the first year. Students in their second year of enrolment can focus on course selection of areas of law that particularly interest them. During their final year, students are required to complete advanced coursework in their area of specialty. They are also required to submit research projects and internships. During their summers, law students typically seek out volunteer opportunities or work in law offices.
Law school
Law schools are known to give preference to students who have completed their entire bachelor’s degree (which is usually for four years). However, the eligibility to any law school for a JD degree is a minimum of three years. Students pursuing law are not required to go for any specific courses though some times, classes focusing on critical thought and analysis are considered helpful. It is necessary for Canadian students to go for the take the Law School Admissions Test. LSAT scores, grade point average and overall merit play a critical role to get admissions. Aboriginal children are given special consideration as a matter of policy.
Articling & Bar Exams
Earning yourself a degree in law will not turn you into a lawyer. Graduates who have recently acquired their law degree must “article” with a licensed lawyer for a minimum duration of 10 to 12 months before they can apply to the bar. Articling is a great opportunity for graduates to practice law under the supervision of an experienced professional. After they have fulfilled the articling requirement, graduates can go ahead and apply to the bar in their particular province. This includes several weeks’ additional training and testing which culminates in two bar examinations. Individuals who clear their exams are admitted to the bar, and licensed to practice in that province.
Law schools provide an individual with an unparalleled education. The degree equips you with the skills, knowledge and intellectual strength that will help you succeed in virtually any profession or job.
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