how to become an evironmental lawyer

by Prof. Mya Labadie DDS 9 min read

  1. Pursue an undergraduate degree. The first step to becoming an environmental lawyer is to earn an undergraduate degree. ...
  2. Prepare, study for and pass the LSAT. Using the knowledge you've gathered, you can prepare to take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test), which students typically take while they're ...
  3. Research schools and apply to programs. After completing your undergraduate degree, you likely have a better understanding of what specifically interests you about environmental law.
  4. Graduate with your Juris Doctor. The Juris Doctor, or JD, is a professional degree you can earn following graduation with your bachelor's degree.
  5. Take the bar exam. In order to become a lawyer, you must take the bar exam in the state where you intend on practicing.
  6. Apply for positions. One of the final steps to becoming an environmental lawyer is simply to apply for positions. ...

Full Answer

What is the salary for an environmental attorney?

Jun 10, 2021 · Pursue an undergraduate degree The first step to becoming an environmental lawyer is to earn an undergraduate degree. While there is not a specific major that's required to become an environmental lawyer, pursuing majors such as political science, public policy or environmental studies are all excellent options.

How much money do environmental lawyers make?

As licensed attorneys, all environmental lawyers need to have completed a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. After receiving your bachelor's degree in any discipline (there are no major requirements for law school applicants), you must pass the LSAT exam in order to apply to law school.

Can environmental lawyers save the Earth?

Jan 31, 2022 · An environmental lawyer is a lawyer who specializes in environmental law. They may be employed by governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, or a private law firm. A suggested step-by-step process to start a career as an environmental lawyer: Earn an Undergraduate Degree ; Take the LSAT ; Graduate from Law School ; Take the Bar Exam ; Find …

What are the best environmental law schools?

Education Required to Become an Environmental Lawyer. Pre-law undergraduate education is your first step towards becoming an environmental lawyer. Contrary to popular belief, an undergraduate degree in science is not necessary in order to become an environmental lawyer. Related fields such as government relations, public policy and real estate law are all beneficial …

Why do people become environmental lawyers?

As sustainability becomes a global priority, lawyers who can advise clients on green standards and sustainability issues are in demand. It is predicted that climate change, global warming and other environmental legislation will increase the legal work for environmental lawyers in coming years.

What undergraduate degree is best for environmental law?

Students typically need at least a bachelor's degree to qualify for law school. However, colleges rarely offer undergraduate environmental law degrees. Instead, students should consider a bachelor's degree in political science or economics with a minor in a science-related field.Nov 9, 2021

Is environmental law in demand?

The demand for environmental lawyers is growing about as fast as average with a 9% growth expected over the next 10 years. Approximately 71,500 lawyer jobs will be added by 2028.

What do you study in environmental law?

While there is not a specific major that's required to become an environmental lawyer, pursuing majors such as political science, public policy or environmental studies are all excellent options. It's common for undergraduate programs to have pre-determined class requirements.Jun 10, 2021

Is environmental law a good career?

They might also counsel municipalities, manufacturers or developers on how to minimize their environmental impact. Environmental law can be an excellent career, especially for those who have prior experience in a regulated industry, regulatory body or advocacy group.Jul 29, 2021

Where can I study environmental law?

LLM Programs in Environmental Law / Energy Law / Resources Law - South AfricaUniversity of Cape Town (UCT) - The School for Advanced Legal Studies. ... University of Pretoria. ... University of KwaZulu-Natal - Howard College Campus. ... University of Western Cape. ... University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) - Pietermaritzburg Campus.More items...

Where do environmental lawyers make the most money?

San FranciscoEnvironmental Lawyers make the most in San Francisco, CA at $270,894, averaging total compensation 49% greater than the US average.

What is the highest paying environmental science job?

5 High Paying Environmental Science Careers#1 Biochemist. Median Salary: $94,270. Education: Doctorate. Experience: None. ... #2 Environmental Engineer. Median Salary: $92,120. Education: Bachelor's. ... #3 Hydrologist. Median Salary: $84,040. Education: Bachelor's. ... #4 Environmental Scientist. Median Salary: $73,230. Education: Bachelor's.

What does a career in environmental law look like?

Attorneys practicing in this field may work for state and local governments enforcing local land use laws and defending permitting decisions; in nonprofit organizations representing environmental interests in all stages of land use planning; and in private firms challenging permitting decisions or advising nonprofit ...

Is it hard to get into law school?

Getting into law school is tough, but not insurmountable. As long as you have the minimum requirements to get in, your dream of getting your Juris Doctor degree and becoming a lawyer is achievable. Law schools generally require that you have specified minimum collegiate GPA and LSAT scores to qualify for admission.

How much does an environmental lawyer make UK?

How much does a Environmental lawyer make in United Kingdom? The average environmental lawyer salary in the United Kingdom is £61,425 per year or £31.50 per hour. Entry level positions start at £50,000 per year while most experienced workers make up to £75,000 per year.

Is environmental law a thing?

Description: There are numerous environmental laws in the United States (US) which provide the common purpose to protect human health and the environment. Most current major environmental statutes were passed in a timeframe from the late 1960s through the early 1980s.Jun 15, 2016

What Does An Environmental Lawyer do?

An environmental lawyer works to represent clients in legal issues such as in clean technology, water law, climate change law and the management of...

Where Does An Environmental Lawyer Work?

Depending on where an Environmental Lawyer works, the day to day duties of an Environmental Lawyer include meeting with clients, researching enviro...

What Is The Average Environmental Lawyer Salary?

The median salary range for an Environmental Lawyer is $113,530 per year or $54.58 per hour. Employment for Environmental Lawyers is growing at a r...

Environmental Lawyer Jobs & Job Description

1. Analyze and interpret data obtained from literature reviews, case law, criminal, civil and regulatory research, and sample findings 2. Interview...

What Degree Do I Need to Apply to Environmental Law Schools?

To practice as an Environmental Lawyer you will need to obtain a law degree commonly known as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD). The...

What Kind of Societies and Professional Organizations Do Environmental Lawyers have?

1. The Environmental Law Institute (ELI) is the professional organization for environmental lawyers globally. ELI's visions is for a “healthy envir...

What is an environmental lawyer?

An environmental lawyer is a professional who provides legal guidance to their clients about various environmental topics and issues, such as climate change, poor air and water quality, sustainability and waste management. Environmental lawyers provide counsel to their clients in court by compiling evidence and suggesting strategies to save energy.

Work environment for an environmental lawyer

Environmental lawyers typically work within law firms, private practices or government agencies. They may work in office environments to collaborate with other environmental lawyers and work alongside legal assistants and paralegals to prepare for cases. Environmental lawyers also spend much of their time in court when representing their clients.

Salary and job outlook for environmental lawyers

While there isn't a salary available specifically for an environmental lawyer, attorneys in the United States report making an average of $95,196 per year, although this can vary depending on your experience and the state where you practice.

What degree do I need to become an environmental lawyer?

What Should I Study to Become an Environmental Lawyer? As licensed attorneys, all environmental lawyers need to have completed a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

What is environmental law?

Environmental lawyers interpret environmental laws on behalf of government agencies, public interest nonprofits, and private businesses. With myriad local, state, and federal environmental regulations in place today, environmental law has become a vast and complex specialization of legal practice. Environmental lawyers are tasked with helping clients navigate those regulations. They might be hired to help clients comply with existing regulations, fight regulations that may be harming clients, or advocate for new regulations that are desperately needed. Read the table below for a quick overview of this career.

What is an environmental lawyer?

An environmental lawyer is responsible for understanding the many, varied, and ever-changing laws and regulations pertaining to our environment. They represent a wide range of clients in environmental case law and legislation.

How much do environmental lawyers make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) quotes the average annual salary for lawyers as of May 2019 at $122,960. This is the average salary for all categories of lawyers, including environmental lawyers. As more and more focus is placed on sustainability and protecting our environment, the need for environmental lawyers is expected to increase. The BLS notes a projected growth of four percent for job opportunities nationwide for lawyers of all types from 2019 through 2029. According to Unity College, the demand for environmental lawyers is expected to at least maintain that pace, perhaps outpacing the expected growth of lawyers, at six percent over the next decade. They project that 50,100 new environmental lawyer jobs will be added by 2028.

What are the best law schools?

Pick from the links below, depending on your education level that best describes your situation: 1 Pre-law Undergraduate Programs 2 Online and Campus Law and Legal Studies Programs 3 ABA-Accredited Law Schools – Juris Doctor (JD) Degree

What is the job description of an environmental lawyer?

Job duties and skills required for environmental lawyers are broad and may include: Drafting legislation for environmental law. Lobbying elected officials. Advising policymakers at all levels of government.

What is the ABA certification?

The American Bar Association (ABA) provides a listing of certificate programs if you are interested in choosing a school that offers certification in environmental law. Pick from the links below, depending on your education level that best describes your situation: Pre-law Undergraduate Programs.

How long does it take to become an environmental lawyer?

It typically takes about 7 years to become an environmental lawyer. Educational environmental lawyer requirements include a bachelor’s degree and a law degree, typically a Juris Doctor (JD). Upon graduating, the bar exam must be completed successfully.

How many years of experience do environmental lawyers need?

Many companies hire environmental lawyers with at least 5 years of work experience. Experience working in a government agency is preferred by many organizations. Environmental lawyers starting out can gain experience from internships or by joining a private practice.

What is an environmental lawyer?

Environmental lawyers are important advocates to individuals, corporations, and government agencies, often acting as a mediator and providing counsel. When thinking about pursuing a career as an environmental lawyer, there are many things to consider. What are the educational requirements?

How much does an environmental lawyer make?

How much does an environmental lawyer make a year? An environmental lawyer’s average salary is about $120,910 per year. The salary can vary based on location, experience, and level of education.

What is the job description of an environmental lawyer?

An environmental lawyer job description typically includes the following responsibilities. Analyze data from findings, cases, trials, and other sources. Advocate for environmental regulations and protections. Create legal correspondence and other documentation. Recommend corrective action and fines for offenders.

How many environmental lawyers will be added in 2028?

The demand for environmental lawyers is growing about as fast as average with a 6% growth expected over the next 10 years. Approximately 50,100 environmental lawyer jobs will be added by 2028.

What is the role of a mediator in a legal case?

Provide legal and policy counsel to corporations, agencies, and other entities. Act as a mediator between landowners and businesses or government agencies. Draft environmental policies and business practices. Validate written legal documentation. Organize and participate in educational campaigns and lobbying efforts.

What is an environmental lawyer?

An environmental lawyer represents clients dealing with legal issues pertaining to the environment. These laws affect businesses of all sizes as they face the challenge of complying with hundreds of regulations while carrying out day-to-day operations.

What is MPRE in law school?

After finishing law school, one must take the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) (this does not apply to residents of Maryland, Wisconsin, and Puerto Rico). This exam ensures the aspiring lawyer’s conduct and professionalism meet the standards set by the American Bar Association (ABA) standards.

Is there a charge for a lawyer consultation?

These consultations are often done at no charge. During the meeting, you can ask questions about the attorney’s experience, track record, special skills, and fees. The lawyer’s experience should be compatible with your legal needs and they should have the skills needed to properly handle your case.

Do lawyers charge retainers?

It is also common for lawyers to require a retainer fee. This fee is a portion of the total costs, paid upfront, and placed into a special account for the lawyer to use and he works on the case. The amount charged varies based on what the case involves, the lawyer’s experience, and geographical location.