FAQ
Lawyer FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a lawyer.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a lawyer: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about lawyers
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
About seven years after high school: four of college and three of law school.
Do lawyers need to pass the bar?
Yes, in the state where they practice.
Do all lawyers go to court?
No, many do transactional or advisory work.
How much does a lawyer make?
The median annual wage for lawyers was $159,670 ($76.76 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $78,360 and the highest 10% earned more than $351,600.
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
Most people need about 7 years after high school of training. A bachelor’s degree, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a state bar license are required.
Do you need a degree to be a lawyer?
Yes. Lawyers need a bachelor’s degree, a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) from law school and a passing score on a state bar exam.
Is lawyer a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.7% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 28,700 openings each year. Upsides include high pay potential; a common challenge is that long hours.
What skills does a lawyer need?
Key technical skills include legal research, legal writing, negotiation, and litigation. Employers also value persuasion, critical thinking, and communication.
What certifications are available for lawyers?
Common credentials include State bar admission, Board certification, MPRE, and LL.M.. Lawyers must pass a state bar exam and be admitted to the bar to practice law.
Still deciding?
Try the Lawyer fit quiz, compare with Paralegal, or explore Lawyer training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 23-1011 (Lawyers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Lawyers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.