How long does it take to get a law degree?

🇺🇸 United States

To become a lawyer in the U.S., you typically need 7 years total:

  1. Bachelor’s degree – 4 years

    • Any major is acceptable (political science, history, business, etc.)
  2. Law school (Juris Doctor / J.D.) – 3 years

    • Full-time program
    • Part-time programs can take 4–5 years

➡️ Total: ~7 years (full-time)


🇬🇧 United Kingdom

The UK path is usually 5–6 years, depending on the route:

  • LLB (law degree) – 3 years
    or
  • Non-law degree (3 years) + conversion course (1 year)
  • Professional training & apprenticeship – 1–2 years

➡️ Total: ~5–6 years


🇨🇦 Canada

  • Undergraduate degree – 3–4 years
  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) – 3 years
  • Articling – ~1 year

➡️ Total: ~7–8 years


🇦🇺 Australia

  • Combined undergraduate law degree – 5 years
    or
  • Non-law degree (3 years) + JD (3 years)
  • Practical legal training – ~1 year

➡️ Total: ~6–7 years


🌍 Other Factors That Can Change the Timeline

  • Part-time study
  • Accelerated programs
  • Gap years
  • Required licensing or bar training

Quick Summary

Country Typical Time
USA ~7 years
UK ~5–6 years
Canada ~7–8 years
Australia ~6–7 years

If you want, tell me which country you’re considering, and I can give you a more precise, step-by-step path—including costs and licensing exams.


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