Choosing a law school track is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your legal education journey. While many law students enter school with a general interest in “law,” narrowing your focus early can shape your career path, help you build relevant skills, and make you stand out in a competitive field.
Here are key factors to consider when choosing your law school track or concentration:
1. Know Your Interests and Passions
Start by asking yourself: What kind of legal work excites you? Are you drawn to courtroom drama, policy work, corporate deals, or helping individuals directly?
Some popular law school tracks include:
- Criminal Law
- Corporate/Business Law
- Family Law
- Environmental Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- Human Rights and Public Interest Law
- Health Law
- Technology and Cybersecurity Law
Your passion can sustain you through the hard work of law school and beyond.
2. Consider Your Long-Term Career Goals
Think about where you see yourself practicing:
- Do you want to work at a large firm, a nonprofit, or in government?
- Are you aiming to litigate, negotiate, or work behind the scenes?
- Would you rather represent individuals, companies, or institutions?
Your answers can guide your track. For example, someone interested in advocacy and court appearances might choose Criminal or Family Law, while someone interested in high-level transactions might choose Corporate or Tax Law.
3. Explore the Job Market
It’s wise to balance passion with practicality. Some legal tracks offer more job opportunities or higher earning potential than others.
Do your research:
- What are the hiring trends in your area of interest?
- Which sectors are growing or shrinking?
- What types of firms or organizations are hiring in that track?
Law school advisors, alumni, and online job boards can help you gauge the market.
4. Take Advantage of Electives and Clinics
Your interests may shift once you take specific classes or join legal clinics. Use electives to “test drive” different areas of law and see what resonates with you in practice—not just theory.
Hands-on experience through:
- Legal clinics
- Moot court
- Internships
- Externships
…can give you a clearer sense of what daily work in that field looks like.
5. Assess the Strengths of Your Law School
Some schools are known for particular specialties. If your school has a strong program in a certain area, take advantage of the faculty, alumni connections, and course offerings in that field.
Example:
A school with a top-rated environmental law program may offer unique research opportunities, clinics, and networking events in that niche.
6. Think About Work-Life Balance and Lifestyle
Different legal tracks come with different lifestyle demands. BigLaw corporate attorneys may earn high salaries—but also face long hours. Public interest lawyers may have better work-life balance, but lower pay.
Ask yourself:
- What kind of lifestyle do I want?
- How important is salary versus job satisfaction?
- Am I willing to relocate or work long hours if needed?
7. Stay Open to Change
You don’t have to lock yourself into a single path forever. Many lawyers pivot during or after law school. Your chosen track can help you gain focused knowledge and experience—but it doesn’t define your entire career.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a law school track is about aligning your interests, strengths, and goals with the realities of the legal profession. Be honest with yourself, do your research, and take advantage of every opportunity to explore.
At Acacia Law Firm, we know firsthand how a well-chosen path can shape a meaningful legal career. If you’re a law student or new graduate exploring your options, we’re always happy to share insights from the field.
