Should I Go to Law School? 50 Questions to Ask Yourself
As you think about your next steps, one big question may be on your mind: should I go to law school? Deciding whether to pursue a JD is not just about the next three years of your life, but the future of your career. Law school is a major commitment, and you need to reflect on whether it is the right fit for your skills, interests, and goals.
There are many factors to weigh. Are you prepared academically? Do you have a compelling personal story for your application? Are you motivated by passion for the law or simply the idea of prestige and income? To guide your decision, we have outlined 50 questions to help you think through whether law school is the right path.
Academic Preparation for Law School
-
Is your GPA above 3.3?
-
If not, do you have full-time work experience to balance it out?
-
Have you taken the LSAT, and do you have a competitive score?
-
Are you prepared for intensive reading and writing assignments?
-
Are you ready to go back to school, or are you feeling burnt out?
Your Resume and Financial Readiness
-
Have you worked in a legal office, and did you enjoy it?
-
Do you have skills like analysis, judgment, research, and perseverance?
-
Do you have money saved for tuition, or a financial plan for law school costs?
-
Are you satisfied with your current income, or are you only interested in law for salary potential?
-
Have you held leadership positions or worked in teams that built collaboration skills?
Career Considerations
-
Have you carefully considered becoming a lawyer, or is it an impulsive choice?
-
Is this a childhood dream, or a well-thought-out career plan?
-
Is law school necessary for the career you want to pursue?
-
Do you know what area of law you would like to specialize in?
-
Is there another career path that might make you happier?
-
Do you want to spend your career solving problems, advocating, or shaping policy?
-
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Your Law School Essays
-
Do you have a strong reason for pursuing a JD that can carry your personal statement?
-
Would your essays stand out from other applicants?
-
Can you highlight how your background or experiences shaped your interest in law?
-
Do you have activities or experiences that show maturity and impact?
Reasons Behind Applying
-
Is going to law school your dream, or your parents’?
-
Are you inspired by TV portrayals of lawyers, or do you understand the reality of the profession?
-
Are you passionate about helping people or changing systems?
-
Have you spoken to practicing lawyers to understand their day-to-day work?
-
Are you pursuing law for prestige, or because it aligns with your values?
Extracurriculars and Interests
-
Have you joined law-related activities such as mock trial or law review?
-
Have you gone beyond common clubs like debate and Model UN to explore unique legal initiatives?
-
Have you conducted legal research, volunteered, or made an impact in your community?
-
Do you have unusual hobbies or interests that could strengthen your application narrative?
The Law School Application Timeline
If you decide “yes” to should I go to law school, knowing the application process is critical. Most law school applications open in the fall, and because admissions are rolling, earlier is better. Target having your materials ready by October or November.
Key steps include:
-
Take the LSAT and build a balanced school list of 10–12 programs.
-
Begin your personal statement and other essays in the summer.
-
Ask your recommenders early to give them time for strong letters.
-
Revise your essays and submit applications as early as possible.
If you are not ready for the next cycle, consider a gap year to gain work experience and strengthen your profile.
Preparing for Law School Applications
Strong grades and LSAT scores are critical, but so are compelling essays and meaningful experiences. Law schools want diverse cohorts where each student brings unique perspectives. Your personal statement is the best place to explain why law school is right for you and how you will contribute.
As you think about should I go to law school, take time to reflect on your academic strengths, your reasons for pursuing the degree, and your long-term career goals. Law school is a serious investment of time and money, and it requires passion, resilience, and clarity of purpose.
Choosing Whether You Should Go to Law School
Deciding whether to go to law school is not just about filling out applications — it is about committing to a path that will shape your career and future. If you are asking yourself “should I go to law school,” speaking with an admissions expert can give you clarity. Our team works with students to evaluate their academic preparation, career goals, and personal motivations, then builds a strategy that highlights their strengths. By connecting with one of our experts, you will gain personalized guidance, honest feedback, and a clear plan for moving forward with confidence.