Becoming a Lawyer: The Time It Takes and What It Takes to Get There

If you have a fiery zeal for justice, empathy towards victims, and a determined work ethic, then the thought of pursuing a career in law must have crossed your mind.

The burning question is, how long does it take to become a lawyer? Well, there is no one definitive answer since it can vary from person to person. Typically, completing the educational requirements to become a lawyer takes about six to seven years. However, for individuals who wish to gain some experience in the legal field before attending law school, it may take longer.

Here is an in-depth breakdown of everything you need to know about the study plan for becoming a lawyer.

What Educational Degree is Necessary to Become a Lawyer in Canada?

Before delving into a career in law in Canada, you must first satisfy certain educational requirements. The time it takes to become a lawyer depends on which degree you choose to pursue.

The mandatory educational requirements to become a lawyer in Canada are as follows:

• 1. Undergraduate degree from a recognized university after completing high school studies; or,
• 2. A bachelor's degree from a reputed law school combined with a college program,
• 3. Successful completion of the Bar Exam,

4. A dedicated period of articling as a student (when you will join a legal service team to learn the ropes of legal research, and drafting memoranda or letters).

On the other hand, if your interest lies in becoming a Notary, you will need the following Degrees:

• 1. A Bachelor's Degree and a Diploma Degree in Notarial Law (DDN), or

2. A Master's degree in Law (specialized in Notarial Law) and a certificate from a vocational training program of thirty-two weeks.

What Steps are Required to Become a Lawyer in Canada?

It generally takes about three years to complete the Juris Doctor undergraduate degree in law. Here are the steps you need to follow to become a lawyer in Canada:

• Step 01: Graduate with a diploma from your high school,
• Step 02: Obtain an undergraduate/bachelor's degree,
• Step 03: Prepare for and take the LSAT exam,
• Step 04: Get admitted to a law school,
• Step 05: Earn the law/JD Degree,
• Step 06: Pass the bar exam to become licensed,
• Step 07: Work as a lawyer.

• How Much Time Does It Take to Become a Lawyer in Canada?

• If you are still struggling to determine how long it will take you to become a lawyer in Canada, let us break it down for you.

• Stage 01: Completion of Undergraduate Degree:

  Estimated Time: Three to four years:

The fascinating fact about becoming a lawyer is that you don't need an undergraduate degree specifically in Law. Most bachelor's degrees take approximately four years to complete. As a first step, you must complete your bachelor's degree with flying colors.

Although there is no specific major requirement, it is better to choose a related major to the sector of law you want to practice. Choose a major that you enjoy researching, exploring, having critical discussions, preparing speeches, or writing papers about.

Here are some of the majors you could choose from:

• - History,
• - English,
• - Economics,
• - Sociology,
• - Philosophy,
• - Journalism,
• - Criminal justice,
• - Political Science,
• - Business Administration.

Studying these majors will prepare you to face the difficulties of law school. If you wish to pursue corporate law, you should select Business studies or Management.