How to become an immigration lawyer

What does an immigration attorney do?

Immigration attorneys provide legal advice and representation to people who need help navigating the immigration process. This might include helping with complex paperwork and guiding people through applying for citizenship. Additionally, immigration lawyers help defend their clients in deportation proceedings and offer counsel to vulnerable people seeking asylum or refugee status.

Steps to become an immigration lawyer

Here are the steps to becoming an immigration lawyer.

Step 1: Earn your bachelor's degree

You'll need to earn a bachelor's before you can attend law school. Your degree can be in any field, but subjects like international relations, public policy, or sociology may help prepare you to specialize in immigration law. Bachelor's programs can also provide you with the research, written, and critical thinking skills that you'll need once you're a practicing lawyer.

Step 2: Pass the LSAT

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is an entrance exam required by most law schools in the United States. It tests your written, comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical skills. A high score can help you gain admission to more prestigious schools.

There are plenty of prep courses and materials that you can study yourself or with a tutor. The LSAT is offered multiple times a year, so you have some flexibility with when to take it.

Step 3: Attend law school

Enroll in a juris doctor (JD) program to earn your law degree.

During the first year of law school, you'll take foundational courses in areas like constitutional law and contracts. However, in the second and third years, you can take elective courses in immigration law if your school offers them.

Make sure you choose a school that's accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) so that you are able to practice law after graduation. Many states will not allow you to sit for the Bar exam if you did not attend an ABA-accredited school. Check your state and local jurisdiction for other requirements, as well.

Step 4: Pass the bar exam

Once you graduate, you must pass the bar exam to be eligible to practice law. The exam usually includes essay writing, multiple choice questions, and performance tests for your legal reasoning. You need to pass the exam in the state where you plan to practice.

Additionally, some states require the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) in addition to the bar. Check your state and local jurisdiction for specific requirements to practice law in your area.

Step 5: Gain experience in immigration law

Once you've earned your law degree and passed the bar, it's time to gain further experience in the field of immigration law. You could choose a law firm that specializes in immigration law or work for a nonprofit to gain experience.

You can also consider post graduate education and certification. For example, in some states like California, you can become board certified in immigration law.

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