Should i do environmental law

Check out our comprehensive subject guide here. Do you catch yourself paying extra attention during natural geography class? Are you passionate about protecting the environment? Want to stop global conglomerates from polluting the rivers with their toxic waste? A career as an environmental lawyer might just be for you.

Environmental law is the broad area of law that examines a range of issues related to the environment; this includes water, hazardous waste, air quality, species protection, wetlands, biodiversity, agriculture, green initiatives, waste managements, sustainability strategies and alternative energy sources. It also looks at the regulation and usage of our natural resources.

Did you know that there are laws in place worldwide and locally that regulate things such as noise levels to chemical discharges and remediation? Issues such as pollutants and their containment, transport, and clean-up make up a large number of cases that you will be dealing with. Depending on the country that you choose to study in, the programmes on offer will differ. In most countries, such as in Singapore, UK and many others, law degrees are given out in the form of an LLB Bachelor of Laws and students will go on to take the national Bar or Law Society qualifying examinations in order to be able to practice as a lawyer.

Bear in mind that some universities choose to differentiate between LLB and BA programmes, the former focuses exclusively on law while the latter allows students to take modules in other subjects.

A JD lasts three years. Students are also presented with the option of earning a Master of Laws LLM in a chosen area of specialisation after completing their JD. Like most academic degrees, law programs start with compulsory core courses, and more opportunities to choose law topics tailored to a particular career path later on. Some may also provide students with the chance to work pro bono voluntarily with real-life clients, as a way to gain invaluable experience and gaining legal skills that will help when applying for positions later on.

Environmental law is typically offered at the postgraduate level as a LLM. There will be written assignments, an independent research essay and presentations throughout your course. Some universities offer a LLM in environmental law alongside their JD programme as a dual-degree option. Those seeking a more senior or specialized role after graduating from law school may consider a post-graduate program.

High school students interested in pursuing a career in environmental law may consider taking an elective course in ecology or environmental science. Some programs may offer or even require an externship where students can gain hands-on experience in the field.

Programs pertaining to these subjects may help students as they apply to the best environmental law schools. Schools for environmental careers can be a great place to develop an understanding of topics like environmental justice, energy and the environment, and environmental and natural resources. It typically takes three years to complete law school and receive a Juris Doctor JD. Often, entry to the top law schools will also require passing a law school admission test.

Post-graduate students may consider continuing their education to receive a Masters of Law, Masters of Environmental Law, or a Ph. Masters or doctorate programs to consider include oil and gas law, land use, and air quality control. In addition to a degree, the completion of the LSAT and bar exam are required environmental lawyer qualifications. The LSAT is an exam that takes half a day to complete. It tests critical thinking and reasoning skills.

A passing score is required to be accepted into law school. After completing law school, lawyers must become licensed. To become licensed, the state bar exam must be passed. The format of the bar exam varies by state.

There are many prep courses and resources that students can use to prepare. Many companies hire environmental lawyers with at least 5 years of work experience. Experience working in a government agency is preferred by many organizations. Environmental lawyers starting out can gain experience from internships or by joining a private practice. International Trade Law.

Legal Services. LGBT Law. Mergers and Acquisitions. National Security Law. Privacy Law. Real Estate Law. Securities Law. Tax Law. Trusts and Estates. White Collar Crime. For J. Explore Legal Careers. The environment continues to be a hot topic in the United States. Everyone from a politician to your neighbor has an opinion of the state of the environment.

As you may have guessed, there are tons of laws surrounding the environment and a growing need for environmental lawyers who understand the ins and outs of the ever-changing legislation. Have you taken special interest in efforts to keep the environment safe? If so, environmental law may be for you.