Resources

Maine Law’s 3+3 Program

Legal Studies Minor

Pre-Law Society

Pre-Law Advisor

Suggested Academic Courses

FAQ’s

Helpful websites

Congratulations on your interest in applying to law school! This site is designed to help you learn more about the field of law and to provide the resources you need to prepare a strong application. A career in law can offer significant intellectual challenges and emotional and financial rewards. However, it can also be very demanding, so it is important to make an informed decision before attending law school. Take the time to explore the field, familiarize yourself with the requirements to become a competitive applicant from the University of Maine, and develop a clear plan to achieve your goals.

What does “Pre-Law” mean at UMaine

At the University of Maine, “pre-law” is not a specific major or program. Rather, it indicates your intention to attend law school after earning your undergraduate degree. The University of Maine offers nearly 90 baccalaureate degree programs, and you can select any major that interests you while still preparing for law school.

Although there is no formal pre-law curriculum, certain courses and minor, like the Legal Studies Minor, can strengthen the critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills needed for success in law school. The Legal Studies Minor consists of six courses (18 credits), and the Political Science Department (Boudreau Hall) can assist students in declaring it.

Meet Lisa, Pre-Law Advisor

Lisa Carter serves as the dedicated pre-law advisor at the University of Maine, providing expert guidance and support to students exploring legal careers. She assists students in discovering their academic and professional options, developing application strategies, selecting potential law schools, and reviewing application materials. With a passion for helping future legal professionals succeed, Lisa is committed to ensuring that each UMaine student has the resources needed to thrive on the path to law school. While Lisa offers valuable guidance on preparing for a future in law, she is not an academic advisor and cannot assist with course registration. Contact Lisa at lisa.m.carter@maine.edu with inquiries or to schedule and appointment.

Resources for Future Law Students

All of the websites offer essential information, tools, and community support for navigating the law school application process. Additionally, review the the official law school websites for the schools you are interested in. Many offer online meetings for prospective students and admissions staff are excited to share school specific information with you. Dive deep into each law school’s site for course offerings, clinical programs, faculty bios, and student life details.

  • Law School Admission Council (LSAC) is the official site for registering and preparing for the LSAT, using the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), and accessing applications for most U.S. law schools. This is a prospective law student’s home base and great starting point.
  • AccessLex Institute provides free resources for LSAT preparation, financial planning, and managing student loans. They also offer financial education tools specifically for law students.
  • Law School Transparency provides detailed information about law school employment outcomes, costs, and debt statistics to help students make informed decisions. There is a great tool to compare law schools based on your specific interests.
  • LawHub is an online platform developed by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), the organization that administers the LSAT. It’s designed to provide prospective law students with a suite of official LSAT practice tests and tools that closely replicate the actual LSAT testing environment.
  • ABA for Law Students (American Bar Association)
  • The ABA site features resources on financing law school, career paths, and professional development. Membership for students includes access to webinars, networking events, and many other benefits as you progress through your legal education.
  • Above the Law: A popular legal news and commentary blog, Above the Law (ATL) covers legal education, law firms, and hot-button issues in the legal world. Their content often includes law school rankings, job market outlooks, salary insights, and occasionally humorous takes on the profession.
  • NALP (National Association for Law Placement) offers information on job placement rates, employment statistics for recent graduates, and data on law firm recruiting practices.
  • LSAT Specific Resources: LSAT Demon, Princeton Review, 7Sage, Kaplan, Powerscore, TestMasters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Ideally, you should start preparing 3-6 months before you plan to take the test. Many students take the LSAT in preparation for their senior year, either in the summer or early in the fall to allow time for retakes if needed.

Most applications open in September, and deadlines are typically between February and April. Applying earlier in the cycle can increase your chances at schools with rolling admissions.

Admission requirements vary by school, but most law schools publish the median GPA and LSAT scores of their admitted students on their website or their 509 report. Aim to research schools you’re interested in to set realistic goals.

Common materials include your LSAT score, undergraduate transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and any additional essays or addenda required by specific schools. Each school may have slightly different application stipulations, so read the directions carefully.

Focus on experiences and values that have shaped your desire to pursue law, showing your personality and strengths. Law schools are interested in who you are beyond academics. Most personal statements are two pages, double spaced.

Ideally, ask professors or employers who can speak to your abilities, work ethic, and character. Academic recommendations are especially valued for recent graduates.

Activities that showcase leadership, communication, advocacy, or analytical skills, such as student government, debate club, or internships with law-related organizations, can be beneficial. Working in a law-related field during undergrad can be challenging due to competition from law school students. Remember to take advantage of any career-related experience and potentially inquire about job shadowing which can be less time intensive.

While not required, relevant experiences can strengthen your application by demonstrating skills and commitment to a career in law. Internships, volunteering, and leadership roles are especially valued.