How to Become a Military Lawyer
As a military lawyer, also known as a Judge Advocate General (JAG), you have the unique opportunity to combine your passion for law and service to your country by representing the United States or your country’s military service. Becoming a military lawyer requires strong academic preparation, a passing score on the Armed Forces Commission Law School Entrance Exam (LSAT), and a commitment to defend the interests of the US military. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to pursue a career as a military lawyer.
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
To become a military lawyer, you will need to earn a four-year undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
| Degree Requirements: |
|---|
| Bachelor’s degree |
| • Minimum 3.0 GPA |
| • Coursework should include English, business, economics, political science, and history |
Step 2: Take the LSAT Exam
The LSAT exam is a standardized test administered by the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) that measures your reading comprehension, analytical, and writing skills.
| LSAT Eligibility: |
|---|
| Date of birth: You can take the LSAT within two years of finishing your undergraduate degree (for US military applicants); international students may take it at any time |
| GPA: Consider taking a prep course and focusing on your weaknesses during the test preparation period |
| Test score reporting: Your LSAT test score will be reported electronically to law schools |
Step 3: Attend Law School
Apply to law school and pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which typically takes three years to complete.
| Law School Requirements: |
|---|
| Law school accreditation: Ensure your chosen law school is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) |
| Admission requirements: Test scores, GPA, recommendations, and personal statements will be considered |
| Clinical courses: Most law schools offer clinical programs, which provide hands-on experience in areas like domestic violence, family law, and criminal law |
Step 4: Comply with Military Requirements
After graduating from law school, you will need to meet the military’s strict requirements, including:
Step 5: Meet the Physical and Medical Eligibility Requirements
You must meet the military’s strict physical and medical standards before commissioning.
| Physical and Medical Requirements: |
|---|
| Age: Minimum 18 years old** (for US military applications); international students may check their country’s military commissioning requirements |
| Physical fitness: ASVAB scores, Medical Examination, and Medical records will be reviewed |
Step 6: Attend Officer Training Schools
Upon meeting the qualifications, you will attend:
| Officer Training Schools: |
|---|
| Platoon Leaders Class (PLC): For underclassmen; a military training program that provides college credit |
| Cadet Officer Leadership Course: For law students; trains you to become a functional officer |
| OTS: Officer Training School; prepares you for assignment as a JAGC officer |
Additional Tips and Considerations:
- Join your law school’s Military Officer’s Association (MOVA) or Military Association of Attorneys (MAA) to connect with fellow aspiring military lawyers;
- Participate in moot court competitions to develop your trial skills, which are essential for any military lawyer;
- Gain practical experience with internships, clerkships, or pro bono work to build your networking and resume;
- Consider serving as a Law Student Representative for student organizations, such as Moot Court or Law Student Bar Association, to acquire leadership skills;
- Research military-specific areas like military justice procedures, military customs and traditions, and military law** issues to gain a deeper understanding of the field;
To become a military lawyer requires dedication, hard work, and a strong passion for serving your country. Remember to focus on your personal and professional development, connect with like-minded individuals, and continuously build your legal skills to succeed in your military law career. As a military lawyer, you will have the opportunity to represent the US military’s interests, uphold justice and fairness, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
