Lawyers are trained professionals who advise and represent their clients on legal issues and disagreements. They perform a multitude of tasks such as conducting research on legal concerns, interpreting laws and rulings and preparing legal documents such as lawsuits and appeals.

If you want to learn about how to become a lawyer in Maryland, you have come to the right place. The following guide lists down everything you need to know about joining this profession in the Old Line State.

Should I Become a Lawyer in Maryland?

Lawyers have a variety of specialization options. They can choose to become tax lawyers, environmental lawyers, family lawyers, securities lawyers or intellectual property lawyers. Their work routine will depend on their expertise, level of experience and employer. Legal services were the biggest employer of lawyers, with 48% of the workforce employed in this sector as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The following table provides a quick look into the career of a lawyer.

  • Education Required
  • Training
  • Licenses/Certifications
  • Key Skills
  • Annual Mean Salary (2019)-US
  • Job Outlook (2018-28)
  • Annual Mean Salary (2019)-Maryland
  • Doctoral or Professional Degree
  • Required
  • Required
  • Analytical skills, interpersonal skills, research skills, speaking skills, writing skills, problem-solving skills
  • $145,300
  • 6%
  • $135,500

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook for a Lawyer in Maryland

Jobs for lawyers are expected to grow by 6% in the years from 2018 to 2028. This growth will be a result of businesses, individuals and government professionals needing legal services in many areas. Law firms will continue to be some of the largest employers of lawyers, while many large corporations will look towards creating their own in-house legal departments to curb costs. The job growth for lawyers in Maryland is expected to be 3% in the years from 2016 to 2026, according to O*Net Online.

Steps to Become a Lawyer in Maryland

In order to become a lawyer in Maryland, candidates will have to follow these steps:

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

There are numerous universities in the US that offer pre-law majors at the bachelor’s level. Even though is it not mandatory to get a pre-law degree, students are recommended to take up courses in English, public speaking, economics, mathematics and government history at the bachelors level.

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

There are numerous universities in the US that offer pre-law majors at the bachelor’s level. Even though is it not mandatory to get a pre-law degree, students are recommended to take up courses in English, public speaking, economics, mathematics and government history at the bachelors level.

Clear the LSAT

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized entry-exam meant for aspiring lawyers across the US. It takes around half a day to complete this test.

Get Admission in Law School

Students will have to submit their LSAT scores, along with college transcripts, personal background and work experience.

Complete Law School (Juris Doctor; J.D.)

Law school typically lasts three years and covers a variety of topics such as constitutional law, property rights, family law and business law etc. Students are taught fundamental courses such as civil procedures and legal writing at the beginning of their J.D. degree. Some programs also incorporate trainings in the form of moot courts or fieldwork internships. The law school you attend needs to accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

Pass the Bar Exam

Once you have completed all educational requirements, you can apply to take the Maryland General Bar Exam through the State Board of Law Examiners. This exam will take between 9 to 12 hours to complete. If you are successful, you will be ‘admitted to the bar.”

How Long Does It Take to Become a Lawyer in Maryland?

Collectively, it can take you around seven years to become a lawyer in Maryland. This timeline includes 4 years of a bachelor’s degree, followed by a 3-year long Juris Doctor (J.D.).

What Are the Requirements to Become a Lawyer in Maryland?

In order to become a lawyer in Maryland, candidates need to meet the following requirements:

  • Must have an undergraduate degree
  • Must clear the LSAT
  • Must complete Law School and get a Juris Doctor
  • Must be admitted to the bar in Maryland State

How Much Can I Earn as a Lawyer in Maryland?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, lawyers in Maryland made an annual mean income of $135,500 in 2019. The top paying industry for this occupation was Cable and Other Subscription Programming, paying an annual mean wage of $224,970. The top paying state for lawyers was District of Columbia, with an annual mean wage of $192,180 in 2019.