How to become a personal injury lawyer in the United States

Becoming a personal injury lawyer in the United States can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those interested in the legal field and passionate about helping individuals who have been injured due to negligence or misconduct. It is much more than helping people who’ve experienced car accidents and “ambulance chasing”.

This article will guide you through the steps required to become a personal injury lawyer, highlight the best cities to work in, discuss salary expectations, and address the common misconceptions about the profession.

Step 1: Obtain an undergraduate degree

The first step to becoming a personal injury lawyer is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. While there is no specific major required for an accredited law school, it is advisable to choose a field of study that develops critical thinking, research, and writing skills. Popular majors for pre-law students include political science, history, English, and business.

Step 2: Take the LSAT

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for admission to most law schools in the United States. The LSAT assesses reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking skills. Aspiring personal injury attorneys should prepare thoroughly for the LSAT as it is essential to obtain a competitive LSAT score to progress.

Step 3: Attend law school and obtain a juris doctor

Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree and taken the LSAT, the next step is to attend law school. Law school typically takes three years to complete. During your time in law school, you will take courses in various areas of law, including constitutional law, medical malpractice, civil procedure, criminal law, tort law, which is particularly relevant to personal injury practice. Participating in internships, clinics, and moot court competitions can provide valuable hands-on experience.

Step 4: Pass the Bar exam

After securing your law degree and completing your legal education, you must pass the American bar exam in the state where you intend to practice. The state bar exam is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge of state and federal law. In addition to the bar exam, some states require candidates to pass a separate ethics exam, such as the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE).

Step 5: Gain experience

Once you have passed the bar exam, gaining experience is crucial for becoming a successful personal injury lawyer. Many new lawyers start by working at law firms that specialize in personal injury cases. This provides an opportunity to learn from experienced attorneys, handle cases, and build a network of professional contacts.

Best cities to work in as a personal injury lawyer

When choosing a city to practice as a personal injury lawyer, consider factors such as the demand for legal services, cost of living, and quality of life. Here are some of the best cities to work in:

1. New York City, New York: With its large population and numerous legal opportunities, New York City offers a high demand for personal injury lawyers. The city’s vibrant legal community provides ample networking and career advancement opportunities.

2. Los Angeles, California: Los Angeles is another top city for personal injury lawyers. The city’s diverse population and busy urban environment create a steady stream of personal injury cases. Additionally, the city’s entertainment industry offers unique legal opportunities related to personal injury.

3. Chicago, Illinois: Chicago’s bustling metropolis and strong legal market make it an excellent choice for personal injury lawyers. The city’s legal community is known for its collegiality and support, making it an ideal place for young lawyers to grow their careers.

4. Houston, Texas: Houston’s growing population and thriving economy create a high demand for legal services, including personal injury law. The city’s low cost of living and friendly legal community makes it an attractive option for lawyers.

What does a personal injury lawyer earn?

The salary of a personal injury lawyer can vary based on factors such as location, experience, specialization and the size of the law firm. On average, personal injury lawyers in the United States can expect to earn the following:

• Entry-Level: $50,000 to $70,000 per year
• Mid-Level: $80,000 to $120,000 per year
• Experienced: $130,000 to $200,000+ per year

Salaries tend to be higher in large metropolitan areas with a high demand for legal services.

If you would like to know more about the salaries on offer, check out our latest salary guide.

Dispelling the bad reputation

Personal injury lawyers often face a negative stereotype, being labeled as “ambulance chasers” or accused of being motivated solely by financial gain. However, this reputation is largely unfounded and unfair. Personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in the justice system by advocating for individuals who have been harmed due to negligence. They help clients navigate the complex legal process, negotiate settlements, and ensure that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries.

Moreover, many personal injury lawyers are passionate about their work and genuinely care about their clients’ well-being. They often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win the case. This aligns their interests with those of their clients and ensures they are motivated to achieve the best possible outcome.

How Taylor Root can help you become a personal injury lawyer

Becoming a personal injury lawyer in the United States requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to helping others. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can embark on a rewarding career that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals who have been injured. Whether you choose to work in a bustling metropolis like New York City or a growing city like Houston, the opportunities for personal injury lawyers are vast and varied.

At Taylor Root we hire people at all levels to work in a variety of personal injury law firms. From support staff through to client service managers, client intake specialists, law clerks, Paralegals and experienced attorneys, we cover them all. If you are looking for a new role at a boutique, mid-size or big law firm, specializing in personal injury claims, check out our latest jobs.

Alternatively, if you are a boutique, mid-size or larger personal injury law firm looking to hire, please submit a vacancy and a member or our expert team will be in touch.