To the contrary, those about to embark upon that journey confront: (1) the daunting cost of law school; (2) an average of $ 120K debt
for attending; (3) a
job market where, nationally, close to half of all graduates do not have Bar -
required employment nine months after graduation; (4) a widespread market perception that law school graduates — even those from elite schools — lack «practice
ready»
skills; (5) cut - backs in hiring newly minted lawyers — even among many stalwart law firms; (6) an erosion of mentorship due in part to pressure on senior lawyers to «produce» more (7) the unlikelihood of making (equity) partner; (8) instability of law firms; (9) global competition; (10) technology companies creating products that replace services; and (11) a blizzard of negative press trumpeting the glum prospects
for the profession; and (12) alternative career choices — finance, accounting, technology, etc. — that portend greener pastures and do not
require the same time and financial commitment to prepare
for entry.
Once you get
ready to apply, you will have to read the
job description carefully and research your prospective employer thoroughly so you can fine - tune your application materials
for that specific
job -
required skills vary, even between very similar positions.