Seattle’s gorgeous metropolis is home to some of the leading law schools in the country. With one of the strongest employment rates in the country and the top final bar pass percentage at 98.95 percent, it is no surprise that many law students want to attend some of the best law schools in Seattle.
The majority of colleges provide the six J.D. specialties, which include Asian law, environmental law, and comparative law. The best law schools in Seattle excel in a variety of areas, including Intellectual Property and International Law.
The law schools in Seattle focus on setting ideals that respect multidisciplinary understanding while embracing diversity and elevating public service.
Selecting your choice of law school is a big decision. The curriculum will give the basic foundation required to pass the bar and effectively practice law. It can also change the way you see and experience the field through clinics, externships, and other opportunities.
Seattle, surrounded by gorgeous beauty and pristine wildlife, is home to some of the world’s most renowned law schools. Studying in Seattle allows you to enjoy the outdoors while also focusing on your studies.
Are you interested in attending a law school in Seattle? Keep reading as we review some of the best law schools in Seattle in 2024.
Table of contents
- Are Law schools in Seattle worth it?
- How much does Law school cost in Seattle?
- Requirements for law school in Seattle
- How to apply for law schools in Seattle?
- Overview of the Best Law Schools in Seattle
- What are the Highest Paying Law School Jobs in Seattle?
- Benefits of working while in Law school
- FAQs Best Law Schools in Seattle in 2024
- Conclusions
- References
- Recommendations
Are Law schools in Seattle worth it?
Are you considering attending a law school in Seattle? When you consider the expense of attendance, you may wonder if it is worthwhile. While scholarships and financial aid are available, many people who attend law school in Seattle see it as a worthwhile long-term commitment.
Becoming a lawyer is a serious commitment, but it may provide you with the opportunity to earn a higher-than-average salary. It is crucial to note that there are various sorts of lawyers, and earnings may vary depending on the role. While a variety of other factors influence income, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual wage for lawyers is $122,960. In 2016, the top 10% of lawyers had a median yearly salary of more than $208,000.
Besides the top-paying possibilities for law students in Seattle, attending law schools in Seattle affords you the prestige of receiving an exceedingly high-quality education. Some of the best law schools in the country are in Seattle.
Student life in Seattle is fantastic because you can enjoy wonderful weather, and spend a lot of time at the beach. Law schools in Seattle also have an impressive number of student clubs where you can participate in a variety of exciting extracurricular activities.
Seattle is also a wonderful place to attend law school because of its networking opportunities. Since Seattle is a major economic center, you can meet many key individuals and establish a strong business network early in your career.
Also read: Easiest Law Schools to Get Into in 2024| Expert Guide
How much does Law school cost in Seattle?
Tuition has grown by an average of $5,326 per five years since 2005. According to historical data, tuition at all ABA-accredited law schools has risen since the 1970s.
Some experts attribute tuition increases to lower student-teacher ratios, higher faculty pay, legal clinics for practical education, the expansion of administrative staff rosters, and large school construction projects.
According to current trends, the average annual tuition for law schools in Seattle is $51,170. Law school tuition alone costs an average of $137,533, or $45,844 per year. The average annual living expense is $68,211, or $22,737 per year. Estimates for the cost of a part-time law school program are $34,329.
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Requirements for law school in Seattle
Getting into law school can be a time-consuming process. Some of the general prerequisites for some of the best law schools in Seattle include:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or University
While many graduate programs require specific courses, law school programs do not. People who apply to law school may hold a variety of degrees. What matters is that you finish your bachelor’s degree with a high GPA.
Your undergraduate GPA is more important than the courses you study in college. Pay special attention to achieving the GPA that your preferred school demands.
Undergraduate degrees typically take at least four years to complete. You should start preparing for the LSAT and gathering appropriate documents for your application before graduation.
According to admissions experts, law school applicants must understand that highly-rated law schools prefer to admit students with exceptional college grades.
Although some of the best law schools in Seattle occasionally admit students who do not have high GPAs, this is rare and happens only if they have other attributes that compensate for that loss, such as an amazing applications essay or LSAT score. The median GPA for the best law schools in Seattle was 3.42 or above.
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Law school Admission Test (LSAT)
As part of the application process, you must take the LSAT. The test costs an average of $215. The most crucial metric in determining your acceptance to law school is your score.
As a result, students frequently begin studying for the exam a year in advance. Do your best to stay within the average score of 150.
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Transcripts and documents
Before applying to law school, you must obtain official transcripts from all undergraduate, graduate, and certificate schools.
The process of requesting your transcript may take several days, so get started as soon as possible. You must pay any costs owed to your alma institution before they would grant your request.
The personal statement is another criterion for some of the best law schools in Seattle. Consider this phase an opportunity to demonstrate your personality to the admissions committee.
You can discuss your job objectives, academic achievements, and anything else that comes to mind. Some schools may provide particular suggestions; if not, you can conduct extra research.
Law schools typically want at least one letter of recommendation, but you could include more. These letters can be from the undergraduate instructors who worked with you the most.
You might even approach an employer who can attest to your ability to balance your job and school life. Consider meeting with them ahead of time to discuss the aspects of success you want to include in your letter.
The General Law LL.M. program requires 40 quarter credits completed over a minimum of three quarters (nine months) of full-time study and residency in Seattle. Students may choose to study for more than three-quarters of the time.
Although the curriculum is for full-time study, part-time study may be possible in some cases.
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How to apply for law schools in Seattle?
Applying to some of the best law schools in Seattle necessitates advance planning.
Regardless of the law school, you apply to, you must complete a few key qualifications and stages as part of the application process.
Obtain a bachelor’s degree
Before applying to law school, you must have completed or be on your way to completing your undergraduate education. The minimal educational qualification for applicants is often a bachelor’s degree from an authorized university or college.
Some schools may accept an associate degree in lieu of a bachelor’s degree. To apply, no specific undergraduate degree or discipline is required. You can apply to law school if you have a degree in political science, linguistics, music, or any other unrelated topic of study.
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Take the necessary pre-entrance exam.
Depending on your preferred law school, you may take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) before applying.
The LSAT evaluates a candidate’s skills and knowledge in reading, comprehension, critical thinking, reasoning, and other areas. While this test is a pre-requisite for admission to many law schools, it’s not mandatory for some.
Regular J.D. applicants to The Colleges of Law are not obliged to take the LSAT or any other standardized examination. However, special student applicants must submit the LSAT and the College Level Examination Program tests.
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Obtain endorsement letters
When applying to the best law schools in Seattle, letters of recommendation are frequently requested.
These recommendations from professors, counselors, or supervisors will assist the law school in better understanding your character and determining your admission status.
Most law schools demand letters of recommendation as part of the admission process. Make sure you receive these letters from people you trust and who will speak well of you.
Prepare a personal statement.
The personal statement is an important part of applying to law schools in Seattle. This is your chance to sell yourself to the law school and explain why they should admit you.
It is also your opportunity to demonstrate your writing abilities, so make sure it is error-free and well-written.
Also read: 10 TIPS TO STARTING YOUR LAW PRACTICE OUT OF LAW SCHOOL
Sign up for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
Some law schools require a report from the Credential Assembly Service or CAS. This is a service that compiles your transcript, letters of recommendation, and LSAT results for submission to law schools.
On request, the CAS will transmit your report to your preferred school.
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Apply!
You are now ready to apply after gathering all of the essential materials. You can start looking for law schools in Seattle with acceptance rates that correspond to your test results, preferred location, or program area.
It is also critical to consider each school’s tuition fees to ensure that you are applying to a school that you can afford. Some Seattle law schools also charge a fee for the application form.
It is best to apply to colleges that have ABA accreditation. It verifies that the school you’re applying to meets the educational standards indicated and allows you to take bar exams in any state. ABA-accredited institutions might be very beneficial to those who are considering relocating or extending their practice to another state.
Also read: LLM vs. JD | Striking Differences between Master of Law and Juris Doctor
Overview of the Best Law Schools in Seattle
Seattle is home to some of the best colleges and universities. The booming economy and beautiful city make it one of the best bets for students trying to apply to law schools.
The best law schools in Seattle have proved themselves in the legal field by producing top-notch legal practitioners. Below are some of the best law schools in Seattle.
- Seattle University
- University of Washington school of law.
- Gonzaga University School of Law
- George Washington University Law School
- Seattle pacific university (PRE-LAW PROGRAM)
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Seattle University
Seattle University School of Law is a professional graduate school affiliated with Seattle University, the most prominent independent university in the Pacific Northwest. The American Bar Association has granted accreditation to the School.
The law school provides Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and Master of Studies in Law degree programs (MLS). Seattle University Law School is ranked #126 in the United States among law schools.
With a 59 percent acceptance rate, admission to this law school is extremely competitive. The law school gives equal weight to three variables in admission decisions: LSAT scores, undergraduate academic records, and personal achievements.
The average LSAT score for admitted students is 154, with a GPA of 3.24. The entire cost of attendance (including full-time tuition, fees, and living expenses) at Seattle University School of Law is $70,564.
University of Washington school of law
The University of Washington School of Law is on the northwest corner of the main campus in Seattle, Washington. It is ranked #49 in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report law school rankings, making it the highest-ranking law school in the Pacific Northwest.
The American Bar Association has fully accredited the school, and it has been a member of the Association of American Law Schools since 1909.
Being one of the best law schools in Seattle, admission is usually very competitive. The school has a 26.1 percent acceptance rate.
The School of Law confers the Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, as well as the Master of Laws (LL.M.), Master of Jurisprudence (M.J.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Students pursuing a J.D. can also select one of nine specialties.
The total cost of attendance (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) at the University of Washington School of Law is $49,734 for Washington residents and $62,775 for non-residents.
Gonzaga University School of Law
Gonzaga University School of Law was founded in 1912. Since 1951, the Jesuit-affiliated law school has had full accreditation from the American Bar Association.
The university is also a member of the Association of American Law Schools. Gonzaga University School of Law graduates practice in all 50 states and several associated states and international nations. The law school has a 3.41 median GPA acceptance rate and a 154 median LSAT score.
The school offers both a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a two-year J.D. program. It also offers dual degrees in Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration (J.D./MBA), Juris Doctor and Master of Accountancy (J.D./M.Acc.), Juris Doctor and Master of Science in Taxation (J.D./M.S.Tax), and Juris Doctor and Master of Social Work (J.D./M.S.W.). Estimates for the cost of yearly attendance at Gonzaga Law are $53,287 (including tuition, fees, and living expenses).
George Washington University Law School
The George Washington University Law School is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious law school. The law school receives hundreds of applicants, therefore admittance is extremely competitive. The acceptance rate for 2020 was 21%.
U.S. News & World Report states GW Law is the 25th best law school in the US in 2024. Each year, George Washington School of Law offers over 275 elective courses.
Business and finance law, environmental law, government procurement law, intellectual property law, international comparative law, litigation and dispute resolution, and national security and U.S. foreign relations law are among the school’s most extensive programs.
Applicants must have taken the LSAT within the last five years to apply for the J.D. program. They must also submit a personal statement and at least one recommendation letter.
In addition to the LSAT, the GRE is also valid. Applicants who have taken both the GRE and the LSAT will have their LSAT score assessed.
The entire cost of full-time attendance at George Washington School of Law (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) is $88,340.
What are the Highest Paying Law School Jobs in Seattle?
The type of job you select while attending law school will determine the effect it’ll have on your studies. it’s important to carefully research before making your decision. Below are some of the highest-paying law school jobs to consider.
Summer Legal Internships
During the summer, many law firms offer legal internships. This is an excellent method to break into the professional world and begin your legal career.
Criminal, labor, and family law firms are the most popular places to apply for a legal internship position. Legal interns typically conduct legal research, analyze papers, and summarize regulatory filings. Interns can earn up to $34,857 per month.
Legal secretary
Being a legal secretary is one of the best part-time law school jobs.
Basically, legal secretaries are responsible for printing and scanning legal documents, scheduling hearings, meetings, and court depositions, attending meetings and taking notes, and organizing meetings between lawyers and clients. Legal secretaries earn a median salary of $42,833 per year.
Legal Research assistant
Most legal assistants conduct research and verify the information for court cases, hearings, depositions, and legal meetings. Law students pursuing a career as lawyers can benefit from a research assistant role.
You can obtain legal knowledge not taught in the classroom. Although most research assistants are hired by legal firms, professors and other faculty members occasionally open such positions to students. Legal assistants earn a median annual pay of $52,920.
Also read: GRE to LSAT Conversion in 2024: How it Works
Benefits of working while in Law school
You’ll find that a majority of law school students work while in school. You might be wondering why. Below are some of the benefits of working while in law school.
Income
Many students must balance multiple financial demands. Students require a lot of money for student loans, housing, and food.
Earning a wage while completing a three-year post-graduate degree may be useful or required for your lifestyle, especially when supporting yourself.
Time management skills
Lawyers are accountable for rigorous deadlines in dealing with documentation and evidence. They usually work with numerous clients simultaneously, and they communicate with a range of persons to gather evidence and get representation for each client.
Lawyers must have great time management abilities to negotiate these requirements. They must be able to organize their thoughts and materials quickly.
Students are responsible for attending classes and lectures, studying, mock trials, and internships in law school. Working part-time while attending school necessitates strong time management and planning skills. Practicing these activities in school may help you prepare for a future career.
Increased Experience level for your resumes
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of graduates may exceed the number of available positions for lawyers. They add that the job outlook for lawyers could grow by 6% through 2028. The decline in availability for entry-level roles may be due to increased job availability for paralegals and law clerks.
Part-time work for a law firm or private attorney will likely give you solid skills and a more outstanding resume, which can help you find work after law school.
FAQs Best Law Schools in Seattle in 2023
Estimates for the median LSAT score for some of the best law schools in Seattle is 154.
The University of Washington school of law and Seattle university school of law are some of the best law schools in Seattle.
Yes, law schools like Seattle university accept GRE.
What is a good GPA to graduate law school with?
Estimates for the median Grade point average for some of the best law schools in Seattle is 3.32.
Conclusions
One advantage of studying in Seattle is the high quality of the city’s schools; you’ll also discover good job prospects following graduation.
Being an economically significant region, you will find more than enough student jobs and opportunities to work as an intern.
This can significantly increase your chances of finding a good job later on because you can make many important contacts early in life, which can help you climb the corporate ladder rather quickly.
References
- forbes.com – Is Law School Worth It? 5 Factors To Consider
- wikipedia.org – List of law schools in the United States
- americanbar.org – ABA reports law school enrollment for 2020 remains stable
- lsac.org – Steps to Apply: JD Programs
- indeed.com – Law School Requirements: 7 Steps in the Pre-Law Process
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