Law Schools in Washington

University of Washington School of Law

The University of Washington School of Law, located in Seattle, Washington, was established in 1899. It is known for its strong academic programs, emphasis on interdisciplinary study, and commitment to public service. The Law School offers a comprehensive legal education, combining theoretical foundations with practical experience through its clinics, externships, and moot court competitions. The school’s location in Seattle provides students with access to a vibrant legal market and numerous professional opportunities in a city known for its tech industry and cultural scene. The University of Washington School of Law is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, attracting students from across the globe.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #49 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 (SJD)
• Master of Jurisprudence (MJ)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 33%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 163.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

1. William Gates Sr. – Attorney and philanthropist, father of Bill Gates.
2. Christine Gregoire – Former Governor of Washington.
3. Barbara Madsen – Former Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court.
4. Norm Dicks – Former U.S. Representative from Washington.
5. Gary Locke – Former Governor of Washington and U.S. Ambassador to China.

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

1. Perkins Coie LLP
2. Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
3. Stoel Rives LLP
4. Washington Supreme Court
5. U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington

Seattle University School of Law

Seattle University School of Law, located in Seattle, Washington, was established in 1972. It is known for its strong emphasis on social justice, public service, and practical training. The School of Law offers a comprehensive legal education with numerous opportunities for hands-on learning through its clinics, externships, and moot court competitions. The school’s location in Seattle provides students with access to a major legal market and numerous professional opportunities. Seattle University School of Law is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

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

Number of Students

Approximately 700 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

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

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 56%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 155.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

1. Jenny Durkan – Former Mayor of Seattle.
2. Richard A. Jones – Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.
3. Steven González – Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court.
4. Robert S. Lasnik – Senior Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.
5. Tina Podlodowski – Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party.

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

1. Perkins Coie LLP
2. Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
3. Stoel Rives LLP
4. Washington Supreme Court
5. U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington

Gonzaga University School of Law

Gonzaga University School of Law, located in Spokane, Washington, was established in 1912. It is part of Gonzaga University, a private Jesuit institution. The School of Law is known for its strong emphasis on ethics, public service, and practical training. Gonzaga Law offers a comprehensive legal education with numerous opportunities for hands-on learning through its clinics, externships, and moot court competitions. The school’s location in Spokane provides students with a supportive community environment and access to various professional opportunities. Gonzaga Law is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds.

U.S. News Ranking of the University

Ranked #116 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2023).

Number of Students

Approximately 350 students are enrolled in the JD program.

Degrees Offered

• Juris Doctor (JD)
• Accelerated Two-Year JD
• Master of Laws (LLM)

Acceptance Rate

Approximately 62%.

Average LSAT Score

Median LSAT score is 153.

5 Famous Alumni and Who They Are

1. Christine Gregoire – Former Governor of Washington.
2. Frank Burgess – U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Washington.
3. Elizabeth L. Perris – Former Chief Judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Oregon.
4. James E. Rogers – Former Attorney General of Washington.
5. Thomas S. Foley – Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

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

1. Perkins Coie LLP
2. Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
3. Stoel Rives LLP
4. Washington Supreme Court
5. U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington