Law Schools in USA

Law Schools in California

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Stanford Law School

Stanford Law School, located in Stanford, California, was established in 1893. It is one of the most prestigious law schools in the world, renowned for its academic rigor, interdisciplinary approach, and strong focus on public service. Stanford Law School offers a dynamic and innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in law, business, and public service. The school’s proximity to Silicon Valley provides unique opportunities for students interested in technology law and entrepreneurship. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Stanford Law School attracts a diverse student body from across the globe.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #2 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 570 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Doctor of the Science of Law (JSD)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 9%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 172.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Sandra Day O’Connor – First female Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
  2. William Rehnquist – Former Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
  3. Anthony Kennedy – Former Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
  4. Sally Yates – Former U.S. Deputy Attorney General.
  5. John Roberts – Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
  2. Kirkland & Ellis LLP
  3. Google
  4. Facebook
  5. U.S. Department of Justice

University of California, Berkeley, School of Law

The University of California, Berkeley, School of Law, commonly known as Berkeley Law, is located in Berkeley, California. Established in 1894, it is one of the top public law schools in the United States. Berkeley Law is renowned for its commitment to social justice, public interest law, and interdisciplinary study. The school offers a diverse and inclusive environment, attracting students from various backgrounds and cultures. Berkeley Law’s strong emphasis on experiential learning, coupled with its location in the San Francisco Bay Area, provides students with ample opportunities for internships and practical training.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #9 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 900 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 20%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 169.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Chief Justice Earl Warren – Former Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
  2. Dean Rusk – Former U.S. Secretary of State.
  3. William H. Orrick III – U.S. District Judge.
  4. Kevin Johnson – Former Mayor of Sacramento.
  5. Barbara Lee – U.S. Representative from California.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Morrison & Foerster LLP
  2. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
  3. Google
  4. Facebook
  5. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law

The University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law (UCLA Law) is located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1949, it is one of the top law schools in the country and is known for its diverse and innovative academic programs. UCLA Law offers a wide range of specializations, including entertainment law, environmental law, and human rights law. The school’s location in Los Angeles provides students with unique opportunities to engage with the entertainment industry and other major sectors. UCLA Law is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, attracting a diverse student body from around the world.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #15 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 1,000 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 22%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 169.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Scott Turow – Best-selling author and attorney.
  2. Kirsten Gillibrand – U.S. Senator from New York.
  3. Janice Rogers Brown – Former U.S. Court of Appeals Judge.
  4. George Takei – Actor and activist.
  5. Sheila Kuehl – Los Angeles County Supervisor.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. Latham & Watkins LLP
  3. Netflix
  4. Warner Bros.
  5. Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office

University of Southern California Gould School of Law

The University of Southern California Gould School of Law, located in Los Angeles, California, was established in 1900. USC Gould is known for its interdisciplinary approach to legal education, combining rigorous academics with practical training. The school offers a variety of specialized programs, including entertainment law, business law, and international law. USC Gould’s location in the heart of Los Angeles provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities. The school is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive and collaborative community.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #19 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 600 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Comparative Law (MCL)
  • Master of Studies in Law (MSL)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 17%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 166.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Warren Christopher – Former U.S. Secretary of State.
  2. John J. Studebaker – Former U.S. Commissioner of Education.
  3. Alan Rothenberg – Prominent sports executive and attorney.
  4. Robert Shapiro – Notable defense attorney.
  5. Hilda Solis – Former U.S. Secretary of Labor.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. O’Melveny & Myers LLP
  3. Walt Disney Company
  4. NBCUniversal
  5. Los Angeles Superior Court

University of California, Irvine School of Law

The University of California, Irvine School of Law (UCI Law) is located in Irvine, California. Established in 2009, UCI Law is one of the newest law schools in the United States but has quickly gained a reputation for academic excellence and innovation. The school emphasizes experiential learning, public service, and interdisciplinary study. UCI Law offers a supportive and collaborative environment, attracting a diverse student body. The school’s commitment to social justice and public interest law is reflected in its curriculum and numerous clinical programs.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #35 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 400 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 25%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 165.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Not applicable due to the school’s recent establishment; notable alumni are still emerging.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. O’Melveny & Myers LLP
  3. Jones Day
  4. U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
  5. Orange County District Attorney’s Office

Loyola Law School, Los Angeles

Loyola Law School, located in downtown Los Angeles, California, was established in 1920 as part of Loyola Marymount University. The school is known for its strong commitment to social justice, diversity, and practical training. Loyola Law School offers a variety of specialized programs, including entertainment law, trial advocacy, and public interest law. The school’s location in the heart of Los Angeles provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities. Loyola Law School is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive community, attracting a diverse student body.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #72 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 1,200 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Science in Legal Studies (MSLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 38%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 160.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Gloria Allred – Prominent civil rights attorney.
  2. Johnnie Cochran – Notable defense attorney.
  3. Vincent Bugliosi – Prosecutor in the Charles Manson trial.
  4. Gloria Romero – Former California State Senator.
  5. Wendy Greuel – Former Los Angeles City Controller.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. Latham & Watkins LLP
  3. Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office
  4. Public Counsel
  5. O’Melveny & Myers LLP

University of San Diego School of Law

The University of San Diego School of Law, located in San Diego, California, was established in 1954. It is part of the University of San Diego, a private Roman Catholic institution. The school is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to public service, and beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. USD School of Law offers a variety of specialized programs, including business law, international law, and public interest law. The school’s location in San Diego provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #86 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 600 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 40%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 158.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Pete Wilson – Former Governor of California.
  2. Lynn Schenk – Former U.S. Representative from California.
  3. David S. Casey Jr. – Prominent trial attorney.
  4. Judith Keep – Former Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.
  5. Peter Navarro – Economist and former Director of Trade and Manufacturing Policy.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Latham & Watkins LLP
  2. DLA Piper
  3. Qualcomm
  4. U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California
  5. San Diego County District Attorney’s Office

University of San Francisco School of Law

The University of San Francisco School of Law, located in San Francisco, California, was established in 1912. It is part of the University of San Francisco, a private Jesuit institution. The school is known for its commitment to social justice, public interest law, and practical training. USF School of Law offers a variety of specialized programs, including intellectual property law, international law, and public interest law. The school’s location in San Francisco provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #147 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 500 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 60%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 154.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Leon Panetta – Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and CIA Director.
  2. John Burton – Former U.S. Representative and California State Senator.
  3. Mary Murphy Schroeder – Senior Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
  4. John L. Burton – Former Chairman of the California Democratic Party.
  5. Jeff Adachi – Former Public Defender of San Francisco.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Morrison & Foerster LLP
  2. Littler Mendelson P.C.
  3. U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California
  4. San Francisco City Attorney’s Office
  5. Public Defender’s Office of San Francisco

Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law

Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law, located in Malibu, California, was established in 1971. It is part of Pepperdine University, a private Christian institution. The school is known for its strong emphasis on ethical and moral values, commitment to public service, and beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Pepperdine Caruso School of Law offers a variety of specialized programs, including dispute resolution, entertainment law, and international law. The school’s location in Malibu provides students with a serene and inspiring environment for their legal studies.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #46 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 600 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 36%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 160.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Ken Starr – Former Independent Counsel.
  2. James A. Baker III – Former U.S. Secretary of State.
  3. Bruce Herschensohn – Political commentator and former U.S. Senate candidate.
  4. Tom Mechler – Former Chairman of the Texas Republican Party.
  5. Jay Sekulow – Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law & Justice.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. Latham & Watkins LLP
  3. Netflix
  4. Warner Bros.
  5. Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office

Santa Clara University School of Law

Santa Clara University School of Law, located in Santa Clara, California, was established in 1911. It is part of Santa Clara University, a private Jesuit institution. The school is known for its strong emphasis on technology law, intellectual property law, and public interest law. Santa Clara Law offers a variety of specialized programs, including high tech law, international law, and social justice law. The school’s location in Silicon Valley provides students with unique opportunities to engage with the tech industry and gain practical experience in a dynamic legal market.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #126 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 600 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 48%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 158.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Leon Panetta – Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and CIA Director.
  2. John Vasconcellos – Former California State Senator.
  3. Zoe Lofgren – U.S. Representative from California.
  4. Edward Davila – U.S. District Judge.
  5. Patricia Guerrero – Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
  2. Cooley LLP
  3. Google
  4. Apple
  5. U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California

Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law

Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law, located in Orange, California, was established in 1995. It is part of Chapman University, a private institution. The school is known for its strong emphasis on practical training, commitment to public service, and supportive community. Chapman Law offers a variety of specialized programs, including entertainment law, environmental law, and business law. The school’s location in Orange County provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #118 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 400 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 46%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 158.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

  1. Ed Royce – Former U.S. Representative from California.
  2. Loretta Sanchez – Former U.S. Representative from California.
  3. Mario Mainero – Chief of Staff to Orange County Supervisor.
  4. Kevin Stidham – Author and professor.
  5. Jennifer Keller – Renowned trial attorney.

Names of Top 5 Companies or Organizations That Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years

  1. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  2. Latham & Watkins LLP
  3. Orange County District Attorney’s Office
  4. Jones Day
  5. U.S. District Court for the Central District of California

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