In recent years, the field of law has undergone a significant transformation, resulting in a surge of interest in legal education. Many students are now pursuing a career in law and enrolling in various law institutes across the country. In response to this growing demand, law schools are introducing new programs that can accommodate the interests and requirements of all law aspirants.

The list of law specialisations offered in India is not only long but also available in almost every academic session. Many students are now keen on pursuing law courses at the undergraduate level, with many candidates taking admission in integrated law courses such as BA LLB, B.Com LLB, and BBA LLB right after completing their higher secondary education. The increasing demand for law courses has made it a popular higher-education option.

This article explores all the essential features law aspirants should consider when applying to a law school in India.

1. Accreditation: One of the most crucial factors to consider is the law school's accreditation. Ensure that the Bar Council of India accredits the institute you are applying to.
2. Faculty: The law school faculty members should be experienced and knowledgeable in their respective fields. It is essential to check their qualifications and expertise before applying.
3. Infrastructure: The infrastructure of the law school should be top-notch, with modern amenities such as a well-stocked library, computer lab, and moot court for practical training.
4. Curriculum: The law school's curriculum should be comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest legal developments. Look for a law school that offers a well-rounded education that combines theoretical and practical training.
5. Placement Opportunities: Law aspirants should also consider the placement opportunities offered by the law school. Look for a school with a good track record of placing its graduates in top law firms and organisations.
6. Fees: The fees charged by the law school should be reasonable and affordable. Law aspirants should not be burdened with excessive fees and debt after graduation.
7. Location: The law school's location is also an essential factor to consider. Look for a law school in a safe and accessible area with good connectivity to major cities.
8. Extra-curricular activities: Law schools that offer extra-curricular activities such as moot court competitions, legal aid clinics, and internships with law firms and NGOs are highly beneficial. These activities help students gain practical experience and develop essential skills required in the legal profession.
9. Alumni network: Consider the strength of the law school's alumni network. A strong alumni network can provide valuable connections, internship opportunities, and job placements.
10. Specialisations: Look for a law school that offers specialisations in your interest. Specialised courses can provide in-depth knowledge and expertise in a particular area of law, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
11. Reputation: The law school's reputation is an essential factor to consider. Look for a school with a good reputation for producing successful lawyers and legal professionals.
12. Student-faculty ratio: The student-faculty ratio is essential in determining the law school's quality of education. Look for a school with low student-faculty ratios to ensure personalised student attention and guidance.
13. Student support services: Law schools should offer adequate student support services such as career counselling, mental health counselling, and academic support. These services can help students navigate the challenges of law school and achieve their academic and career goals.

    

Eligibility Required for Law School

The eligibility requirements for law schools in India may vary depending on the course and institution. However, there are some standard eligibility criteria that candidates need to fulfil to be eligible for admission to a law school:

• For undergraduate courses (BA LLB, BBA LLB, B.Com LLB), candidates should have completed their higher secondary education (10+2) or equivalent from a recognised board or university.
• For postgraduate courses (LLM), candidates should have completed their graduation in law (3 or 5-year course) from a recognised university.
• Candidates must have scored a minimum percentage of marks in their qualifying examination (higher secondary for undergraduate and graduation for postgraduate courses). The minimum percentage varies from institution to institution and course to course.
• Candidates may also have to appear for an entrance exam, such as CLAT, AILET, LSAT, etc., for admission to the law school. The eligibility for these exams may vary, but generally, candidates should have completed their higher secondary education or graduation, depending on the course they are applying for.
• Candidates should also fulfil the age criteria set by the law school and the entrance exam conducting authority.

Fees for Law School in India

The fees for law school in India vary depending on the institute and the program. Here are some estimates for different types of law programs:

1. Three-year LLB program: The fees for a three-year LLB program can range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 per year, depending on the institute.
2. Five-year integrated BA LLB/BBA LLB/BCom LLB program: The fees for a five-year integrated program can range from Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 3,00,000 per year, depending on the institute.
3. LLM program: The fees for an LLM program can range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 per year, depending on the institute.

Career Options after Finishing Law School

Finishing law school opens up various career options in different sectors for a law graduate. Some of the most popular career options are:

• Legal Practice: After law school, one can start practising law as an advocate in a court of law. One can work as a litigator, corporate lawyer, or legal consultant for various organisations.
• Judiciary Services: A law graduate can also apply for judicial services exams conducted by the state or central government to become a judge in the court of law.
• Civil Services: A law degree is considered one of the best degrees for the civil services exams. Many law graduates opt for civil services and serve in various administrative positions in the government.
• Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO): Legal process outsourcing is a growing industry that provides legal services to foreign law firms and corporations. A law graduate can work as a legal analyst, legal advisor, or legal associate in an LPO firm.
• Corporate Sector: Many companies and corporations require in-house lawyers to deal with legal matters. A law graduate can work as a corporate lawyer, legal advisor, or legal consultant in various companies.
• Academia: Law graduates can also choose to pursue an academic career and become professors or lecturers in various law schools and universities.
• Legal Journalism: Law graduates can also opt for a career in legal journalism and work as legal reporters, editors, or anchors for various newspapers, magazines, and news channels.
• Social Work: A law degree equips one with the knowledge of legal procedures and policies, which can be used for social work. Many law graduates work with NGOs and social organisations to provide legal assistance to underprivileged sections of society.
• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): With the rise in technology and innovation, the field of intellectual property rights has gained immense importance. Law graduates can work as IPR, patent, or trademark attorneys.

FAQs

Why is accreditation important when considering a law school?

Accreditation is essential as it ensures that the law school meets the minimum standards set by the Bar Council of India. This means that the quality of education and training the law school provides is up to par with industry standards, and the degree obtained is recognised and valued by potential employers.

What should I look for in the faculty of a law school?

It is essential to look for faculty members who are experienced and knowledgeable in their respective fields. Look for faculty members with advanced degrees and publications in their areas of expertise. Also, find out if the faculty members have practical experience in law, as this can be valuable in teaching and mentoring students.