ABA Accredited Law Schools in California
Stanford Law School
Stanford Law School, located in Palo Alto, California, is one of the most prestigious law schools in the United States. Known for its rigorous academic environment and distinguished faculty, Stanford Law offers students a wealth of opportunities in various legal fields, supported by extensive resources and a vibrant intellectual community.
School History
Stanford Law School was established in 1893, becoming a prominent institution in legal education. Over the years, the school has built a reputation for academic excellence and innovation, contributing significantly to legal scholarship and practice. The school emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and collaboration, integrating law with other fields such as business, technology, and public policy.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
Stanford Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degrees in collaboration with other Stanford departments. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), JD/MS (Master of Science in various disciplines), and JD/MD (Doctor of Medicine). Additionally, the school offers advanced degrees such as LL.M. (Master of Laws) and JSD (Doctor of Juridical Science).
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Stanford Law School is approximately $66,396 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total around $4,500 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
Stanford Law School offers a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing careers in public interest law. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.
Acceptance Rate
Stanford Law School has an acceptance rate of approximately 9%, making it one of the most selective law schools in the country. The school seeks to admit students who exhibit exceptional academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at Stanford Law School is around 171. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for Stanford Law School include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Sandra Day O’Connor – The first female Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
- William Rehnquist – Former Chief Justice of the United States.
- Anthony Kennedy – Retired Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
- Cory Booker – U.S. Senator from New Jersey and former Mayor of Newark.
- Reed Hastings – Co-founder and CEO of Netflix.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Google – A major employer of Stanford Law graduates in various legal roles.
- Facebook – Another leading tech company that hires many graduates for its legal department.
- Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP – A prestigious law firm with significant hiring from Stanford.
- Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP – A top law firm known for employing Stanford Law graduates.
- Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati – A leading law firm in Silicon Valley.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from Stanford Law School can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $70,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $160,000 annually.
University of California, Berkeley School of Law (Berkeley Law)
Berkeley Law, located at the University of California, Berkeley, is known for its cutting-edge research, commitment to public service, and diverse academic programs. The school provides a comprehensive legal education with numerous opportunities for interdisciplinary study and hands-on experience.
School History
Berkeley Law was established in 1894, originally known as Boalt Hall. It has since grown into one of the top law schools in the nation, recognized for its contributions to legal scholarship and education. The school has a long-standing tradition of public service and social justice, with many graduates going on to influential roles in various sectors.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
Berkeley Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPH (Master of Public Health), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), and JD/PhD programs in various disciplines. The school also offers LL.M. (Master of Laws), JSD (Doctor of Juridical Science), and Ph.D. in Jurisprudence and Social Policy degrees.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at Berkeley Law is approximately $52,500 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $58,000 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $3,500 annually. The school offers various financial aid options to help students manage these costs.
Scholarships
Berkeley Law provides a range of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.
Acceptance Rate
Berkeley Law has an acceptance rate of approximately 20%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at Berkeley Law is around 168. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for Berkeley Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Earl Warren – Former Chief Justice of the United States.
- Pete Wilson – Former Governor of California and U.S. Senator.
- Jennifer Granholm – U.S. Secretary of Energy and former Governor of Michigan.
- Goodwin Liu – Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court.
- Steven Donziger – Environmental attorney known for his legal battle against Chevron.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Morrison & Foerster LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many Berkeley Law graduates.
- Google – A leading tech company that employs numerous graduates in legal roles.
- Sidley Austin LLP – A prestigious law firm with significant hiring from Berkeley Law.
- UC Berkeley – The university itself hires many graduates for various legal and administrative positions.
- Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP – A top law firm known for employing Berkeley Law graduates.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from Berkeley Law can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $65,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $150,000 annually.
University of California, Los Angeles School of Law (UCLA Law)
UCLA Law, located in Los Angeles, California, is known for its innovative programs, commitment to public interest, and strong emphasis on experiential learning. The school offers a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities for students to engage in hands-on legal practice.
School History
UCLA Law was established in 1949 as the first public law school in Southern California. Over the years, it has grown into a leading institution recognized for its academic excellence, influential faculty, and commitment to diversity and public service. The school has a tradition of producing graduates who go on to make significant contributions in various legal fields.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
UCLA Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), JD/MA (Master of Arts in various disciplines), and JD/MSW (Master of Social Welfare). The school also offers LL.M. (Master of Laws) and SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degrees for advanced legal studies.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at UCLA Law is approximately $48,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $54,000 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $3,200 annually. The school offers various financial aid options to help students manage these costs.
Scholarships
UCLA Law provides a range of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.
Acceptance Rate
UCLA Law has an acceptance rate of approximately 22%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at UCLA Law is around 169. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for UCLA Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Tom Bradley – Former Mayor of Los Angeles.
- Laurence Tribe – Renowned constitutional law scholar and professor at Harvard Law School.
- Nancy D. Freudenthal – U.S. District Judge for the District of Wyoming.
- Kelly Perdew – Winner of The Apprentice 2 and business executive.
- Danette Meyers – High-profile prosecutor known for her work in the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many UCLA Law graduates.
- Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP – A prestigious law firm with significant hiring from UCLA Law.
- Latham & Watkins LLP – One of the largest law firms in the world, employing many graduates.
- O’Melveny & Myers LLP – A top law firm with a significant presence in Los Angeles.
- U.S. District Court, Central District of California – Many graduates find clerkships and employment within the federal court system.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from UCLA Law can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $150,000 annually.
University of Southern California Gould School of Law (USC Gould)
USC Gould School of Law, located in Los Angeles, California, is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education, innovative programs, and commitment to public service. The school offers a comprehensive legal education with numerous opportunities for hands-on experience.
School History
USC Gould School of Law was established in 1896, making it one of the oldest law schools in California. Over the years, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, influential faculty, and a strong network of alumni. The school has a tradition of producing graduates who go on to make significant contributions in various legal fields and public service.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
USC Gould offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration), and JD/PhD programs in various disciplines. The school also offers LL.M. (Master of Laws), MCL (Master of Comparative Law), and SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degrees for advanced legal studies.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at USC Gould School of Law is approximately $67,000 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $4,000 annually. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available to help students manage these expenses.
Scholarships
USC Gould provides a variety of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.
Acceptance Rate
USC Gould has an acceptance rate of approximately 19%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at USC Gould is around 168. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for USC Gould include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Warren Christopher – Former U.S. Secretary of State.
- John Van de Kamp – Former Attorney General of California and Los Angeles District Attorney.
- Linda Lingle – Former Governor of Hawaii.
- Yvonne Brathwaite Burke – Former U.S. Congresswoman and Los Angeles County Supervisor.
- Frank Rothman – Notable entertainment lawyer and former chairman of MGM.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- O’Melveny & Myers LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many USC Gould graduates.
- Latham & Watkins LLP – One of the largest law firms in the world, employing many graduates.
- Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP – A prestigious law firm with significant hiring from USC Gould.
- Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP – A leading law firm known for its recruitment of USC graduates.
- U.S. District Court, Central District of California – Many graduates find clerkships and employment within the federal court system.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from USC Gould can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $150,000 annually.
University of California, Irvine School of Law (UCI Law)
UCI Law, located in Irvine, California, is known for its innovative approach to legal education, commitment to public service, and emphasis on experiential learning. The school provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education with numerous opportunities for hands-on experience.
School History
UCI Law was established in 2007, making it one of the newer law schools in California. Despite its relatively recent founding, the school has quickly built a reputation for academic excellence and innovation in legal education. The school emphasizes a practical, hands-on approach to learning, preparing students for diverse legal careers.
Degrees Offered (including Joint Degrees)
UCI Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as several joint degree programs. These include JD/MBA (Master of Business Administration), JD/MPP (Master of Public Policy), and JD/MA (Master of Arts in various disciplines). The school also offers LL.M. (Master of Laws) and SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degrees for advanced legal studies.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for in-state JD students at UCI Law is approximately $48,500 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $56,000 per year. Additional fees, including health insurance, student activity fees, and technology fees, total about $3,500 annually. The school offers various financial aid options to help students manage these costs.
Scholarships
UCI Law provides a range of scholarships to assist students financially. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specialized scholarships for students pursuing public interest law careers. Additionally, the school participates in federal and state financial aid programs, providing comprehensive support for students with demonstrated financial need.
Acceptance Rate
UCI Law has an acceptance rate of approximately 24%, reflecting its selective admissions process. The school seeks to admit students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to contributing positively to the legal profession and society.
Average LSAT Score
The average LSAT score for admitted students at UCI Law is around 166. This high score reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process and the school’s rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for UCI Law include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a competitive LSAT score, a strong GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The school values diversity and seeks applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences who have demonstrated a commitment to public service.
Famous Alumni
- Katie Porter – U.S. Congresswoman representing California’s 45th congressional district.
- Arianna Huffington – Co-founder of The Huffington Post and a prominent author and entrepreneur.
- Michele Goodwin – Renowned legal scholar and professor at UCI Law.
- Erwin Chemerinsky – Founding Dean of UCI Law and a prominent constitutional law scholar.
- Lizzy Stephan – Executive Director of New Era Colorado, known for her work in civic engagement and advocacy.
Top Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Kirkland & Ellis LLP – A major law firm known for hiring many UCI Law graduates.
- Jones Day – A leading law firm with significant hiring from UCI Law.
- U.S. District Court, Central District of California – Many graduates find clerkships and employment within the federal court system.
- Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP – A prestigious law firm with significant hiring from UCI Law.
- O’Melveny & Myers LLP – A top law firm known for its recruitment of UCI graduates.
Averaged Starting Salaries
Graduates from UCI Law can expect high starting salaries. Those entering private practice often start with salaries around $190,000 per year. Public service and government roles typically offer starting salaries of approximately $60,000 per year, while corporate positions can provide starting salaries averaging around $140,000 annually.