Virginia Law Schools Key Terms

Get a jump on your legal career with Virginia law schools key terms

By Apryl Beverly

There is a range of law schools in Virginia designed to fit the financial, locality and academic needs of prospective students. Choosing a law school is one of the most important decisions a student can make. Choosing which type of law degree to pursue can also be a difficult decision.

If you are looking to attend a Virginia school, familiarize yourself with a few Virginia law schools key terms to make your decision a more educated one.

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

J.D. is the degree earned by most students before they go one to become lawyers. To earn this degree, most law students will be in school for approximately three years full-time. Each school's credit requirements may vary which could extend or decrease the time it will take to graduate.
Try: Read more about the J.D. degree offered by Virginia law schools at Regent Law.

Master of Laws (LL.M.)

An LL.M. degree is typically pursued by students abroad looking to gain a broad education on the American legal system. Students can typically gain approval to pursue a Doctor of Judicial Science (S.J.D) degree after earning an LL.M.
Try: Read more about LL.M. degrees offered by Virginia law schools at the University of Virginia School of Law.

Joint/dual degrees

A joint/dual degree program allows students to earn two degrees in four years. Students have the option of taking courses to earn a law degree along with other postgraduate degrees.
Try: Read more about joint/dual degrees at Richmond School of Law.

Judicial clerkship

Judicial clerkships give law students the ability to experience first hand how the legal system works. Some students may be asked to read formal court filings, hear arguments or research legal issues and decisions
Try: Find out more about judicial clerkship opportunities at Virginia law schools at George Mason Law School.

Moot court

Participating in moot court helps law students obtain invaluable trial practice and strengthen advocacy skills. Some Virginia law schools allow first-year students to participate in moot courts, while other law schools restrict moot court participation to second- and third-year students.
Try: Learn more about moot court in Virginia law schools at Liberty University School of Law.

Electives

Electives are optional courses that students choose on their own. The first year of law school is structured with specific courses that each student must take. However in the second and third years, students have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of courses that more so reflect their particular law interests
Try: Read more about electives at William & Mary Law School.