There are several ways to choose what kind of law to study. The type of law degree you want to pursue will depend on your interests and your professional goals. You may also want to consider what kind of coursework you enjoy. There are certain specializations that pique your interest more than others. For example, you might be more interested in tax law than you are in civil litigation. And you may want to consider your strengths. Some lawyers have strong analytical skills and others have strong interpersonal skills. If you feel that these are important qualities, you may want to choose a degree that emphasizes those attributes.

To choose a school, check its reputation for quality. For example, LSAC’s official guide to ABA-approved law schools contains admissions grids that indicate the number of applicants who had similar qualifications in the most recent admissions year. Those with better credentials can choose a school that offers a higher acceptance rate. This will give you a better idea of how competitive a law school is.

The first year of law school will typically be very structured. Topics covered in the first year include civil procedure, jurisdiction, standing to sue, motions, pretrial procedure, and lawsuit structure. Other topics you may explore include constitutional history, civil liberties, the Bill of Rights, and the Bill of Rights. During this time, you will also study contracts, the nature of enforceable promises, and rules regarding non-performance.