Ohio Law Schools Key Terms

Ohio law schools provide the resources necessary for one to become a successful lawyer

By Renee Baumgardner

Gaining acceptance into law school can be overwhelming. There is the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), applications and financial aid forms and transcripts and letters of recommendation to obtain. When choosing a law school, you must inquire as to whether their program has American Bar Association accreditation.

Law students may choose from a variety of areas to concentrate their studies ranging from criminal law to labor and employment law as well as develop skills in Alternative Dispute Resolution. Law schools may offer Moot Court and Pro Bono programs to students that provide professional growth.

American Bar Association

The American Bar Association (ABA) works to establish academic standards for law schools and develop ethical standards that its members must adhere to. When selecting a law school, verify that it has accreditation from the ABA, for graduation from an ABA accredited law school is a requirement for sitting for the state bar exam.
Try: For a list of ABA-accredited schools in Ohio, refer to the American Bar Association website.

Merit and need-based scholarships

Scholarships are an excellent source of funding for one's law school education because the student does not have to repay the money. Students that have high academic achievements may receive a merit-based scholarship. Other scholarships are based on financial need and are awarded to students based on their demonstrated financial need.
Try: Refer to the University of Akron School of Law for information on scholarships for students.

Labor and employment law

Labor and employment law involves cases pertaining to affirmative action and sexual harassment in the workplace. Law students interested in this area of law take classes related to Labor Law, Employment Law, Civil Rights, Sex-based Discrimination and Workers' and Unemployment Compensation.
Try: For more information on labor and employment law, refer to the Capital University Law School website.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative Dispute Resolution involves measures such as mediation and negotiation between parties to reach a resolution to their situation and avoid going to trial.
Try: Refer to The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law for more information on Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Moot Court programs and competitions

Moot Court programs and competitions present law students with a fictitious case in which they have the opportunity to research, prepare briefs and argue their case before members in the legal community. Benefits of participating in Moot Court programs and competitions include developing experience in researching and preparing briefs, pleading cases before judges and networking with others in the legal profession.
Try: For information on Moot Court programs and competitions, refer to the University of Cincinnati College of Law.

Pro Bono Programs

Pro Bono is the act of donating their time and legal expertise to others. Pro Bono work can involve assisting Legal Aid and Public Defender programs.
Try: For more information on Pro Bono Programs, refer to the Ohio Northern University Claude W. Pettit College of Law website.