How Technology and Accreditation Are Shaping the Next Generation of Lawyers
The United States justice system is one of the most valuable, essential institutions in the country. Over 1,000,000 lawyers work tirelessly to uphold the law and protect their clients’ liberties and interests. It’s such a deeply ingrained institution that it’s easy to overlook even the most world-renowned lawyer’s beginnings.
Everything starts in law school, where future lawyers learn the skills, rhetoric, procedures, and values needed to succeed in the field. However, some people understandably struggle to take this first step, as many believe that the law school they attend will color their future. This is true in some ways, but much less so than it used to be.
That’s because today, you can find accredited law schools that are just as credible as any iconic brick-and-mortar school. Naturally, online law schools rely on technology, which has never been so prominent in the legal field.
Follow along as we explore how technology and accreditation are shaping the next generation of lawyers.
Accredited Online Law Schools and Their Multi-Faceted Effects on Tomorrow’s Lawyers
Going to law school used to often involve uprooting and moving somewhere to enroll in classes. An expensive prospect, brick-and-mortar law school was largely reserved for people who could justify expensive tuition. Similarly, in-person law schools often held onto tried and true, traditional academic methods.
While online law schools teach the same information, the methods vary in many ways. Some may believe that online law schools are less prestigious, but that’s far from the case. That’s especially true for American Bar Association-accredited law schools.
ABA-accredited law schools must meet many strict criteria, much like their in-person counterparts. Not only do they meet the same standards as world-renowned ABA law schools, but accredited online schools also offer unique benefits. Accredited online law schools have positively affected the next generation of lawyers in many ways, such as:
1. Unparalleled Inclusivity
Previously, many aspiring lawyers had to weigh the pros and cons of relocating and spending a fortune to pursue their dreams. After all, many people don’t have access to great, accredited law schools in their area. Today, the promise of earning a law degree from a prestigious, accredited online law school has largely solved that problem.
Geographical and financial obstacles are much less of an issue for aspiring lawyers thanks to online education. Now, students don’t have to settle for a non-accredited online law program that isn’t as robust as accredited alternatives. Accredited law schools are typically more expensive, but earning an online degree still saves money compared to in-person classes.
This inclusivity largely helps students avoid incurring large debts and moving away from their families and obligations. Of course, there is always room for improvement when it comes to inclusivity. Even still, the fact that more people than ever can justify pursuing a law degree is something to celebrate.
2. Harness Digital Tools Early
It’s no secret that most industries and professions have incorporated technology more and more. As a result, digital literacy is more important than ever, even for lawyers. Online law school students learn this from the jump, as the bulk of their work is done digitally.
Today, even established lawyers who have worked for decades must learn to keep up with technology. That said, harnessing technology early in your education and career can set you up for success. Online law schools offer students a distinct advantage by highlighting the importance of digital tools from the outset.
New programs, data-entry platforms, and AI tools have changed education and legal work alike. It’s easier for lawyers to adapt to new technologies if they’ve embraced technology since their time as students. Strong digital literacy can prepare young lawyers for the ever-evolving nature of technology’s role in the legal world.
3. Credibility and Opportunities
While you can get many great opportunities with a degree from a non-accredited law school, accreditation can serve you well. ABA-accredited law schools hold a lot of weight in the legal field, and it’s with good reason. The ABA has a set of standards it looks for in law schools that are pending accreditation.
Because the ABA is so well-respected, law firms and other hiring authorities value students who graduated from accredited schools. The credibility that comes with an ABA-accredited law degree can help advance your career and land you your first job. Getting a job upon graduating from law school can be scary and stressful, so having this advantage is invaluable.
Some people worry that online law degrees may not look as good as a brick-and-mortar law degree. However, ABA-accredited law schools are all looked at fondly, whether the program is online or in person. The convenience, affordability, and credibility that ABA-accredited online law schools offer are invaluable.
Embracing Change in the Legal World
The legal field has always gone through changes, even if many of them aren’t perceivable outside of the profession. However, the increased emphasis on technology can be felt by those seeking lawyers or even online legal advice. Similarly, the improved inclusivity that online law schools offer can be felt each year as new lawyers graduate.
People aren’t held back as much by geographical and financial constraints that would otherwise make them consider another path. The improved accessibility helps ensure that passionate and driven aspiring lawyers have the same chances as others, despite constraints. Accredited online legal programs hold the same credibility and prestige as iconic law school campuses, and that shows progress.
In many ways, some brick-and-mortar law schools can take some cues from online legal programs. After all, the legal field adopts technology more and more, so students must be equipped to keep up with it. Don’t let past stigmas hold you back from pursuing an online accredited legal program.
This article has been published in accordance with Socialnomics‘ disclosure policy.
