Becoming a Criminal Attorney: How to Get There from Here

If you are considering becoming a criminal attorney, you have a long and rewarding road ahead of you. Becoming a lawyer takes hard work and dedication, but if you put your mind to it you can realize your dreams and help citizens with their legal needs.

It is a good idea to sit down and map out your path to becoming a lawyer. You will want to draw up a timeline so that you can measure your progress and get a good grasp on what it is going to take to accomplish each step. By plotting a timeline you can hold yourself accountable and always keep your goal in sight.

The first step in becoming a criminal attorney begins in high school. You want to develop and maintain good study habits. Work hard to get the best grades you possibly can. While your career may seem a long way off, the grades and accolades you earn in high school will matter when it comes to getting into a good college or university and later, grad school. Also, you will want to carefully consider which extra-curricular activities you participate in, and work to develop leadership within these activities. High school is an excellent time to develop skills that you will use in other areas as an adult.

The next step along your journey is earning your Bachelor's degree. You can major in almost anything as an undergrad, but if you want to be a criminal attorney then you should choose a major that will build a good foundation for knowing and understanding the law. You will want to stay focused while you are working towards your degree. Some undergrads like to spread their wings and test the waters of their new-found freedom as a college student. Resist the urge to spend every weekend partying, as you are going to need the best grades possible to even be considered for grad school.

Academically, the last step you will need to take is attending law school. While you are in college, start considering which law schools you might like to attend. Pay attention to application deadlines and plan accordingly. You will want to go to law school right after college (without taking a semester off) as otherwise you might forfeit your spot in the class.

Once you have completed law school, the last step you will have to complete is taking (and passing) the Bar exam. Obviously you will need to find a firm to join as you begin practicing law, and you will still have a ladder of sorts to climb before you have your own firm or become a partner at an existing law firm.

Choosing to become a criminal attorney is a noble choice! Work hard, make wise choices and you will soon be a practicing lawyer.