AboutBrian Greenberg Expertise I can answer questions about preparing for law school (including appropriate undergraduate coursework), what to expect in law school, doing well in law school, employment during and after law school, etc.
Experience I attended the George Washington Universtity Law School and graduated in the top half of my class in 1998. I now practice entertainment law in New York City.
Organizations State Bar of New York
State Bar of California
Education/Credentials George Washington University Law School; Juris Doctor - 1998
George Washington University; Bachelor of Arts - 1994
Awards and Honors George Washington University Honors Program;
George Washington University Presidential (half tuition) scholarship
Expert: Brian Greenberg Date: 6/28/2008 Subject: work & law school
Question What is your opinion regarding entering law school with a previous career versus immediately after a bachelors degree? I've always wanted to go to law school but as I get closer and closer to the point of actually doing it, I see myself working first. I'm currently testing for my CPA license and will shortly begin working for one of the Big 4 accounting firms. I think I'd like to practice a form of securities, transaction, or corporate law and would like to think the CPA audit work will not be for naught. Anyway, do you think one could benefit more or less by working for a few years or are you of the opinion that one should just flesh it out and go to law school as early as they can? I've considered one of the part time programs because some of the top schools offer evening programs, but I don't think I'd be able to even manage that during tax season due to the long hours. I'm on the fence as to which way to go and I'd appreciate your insight. Thanks.
Answer Hi, Paul:
In my view, getting out into the work force for a bit before entering law school is a fine idea that could only work to your advantage. First off, doing so will help you get a sense of what direction you'd ultimately like to take your career in, and whether you really even want to attend law school at all. I believe too many law students wind up as unhappy lawyers, because either (1) they don't give serious enough consideration to alternative career paths out of college or (2) they don't give enough thought to the area(s) of law in which they'd truly enjoy practicing once out of law school. Working as a CPA for a few years first will afford you the time, context and opportunity to make informed decisions on both counts.
If, after working as a CPA, you ultimately do decide to attend law school, I agree that your professional experience would be a great asset to you in your career as a lawyer, especially if you decide to practice any form of corporate/transactional law. Revenue recognition questions and other accounting issues arise frequently in the context of corporate transactions, and an in depth understanding of accounting rules and best practices would put you at an advantage over other corporate lawyers who lack that background.
Finally, I also agree with you that excelling in law school is difficult enough without also having to handle a full time job in a challenging field. Of course there are many people who attend law school part time while working and do just fine. But if you have the option, I strongly recommend attending a full time program and devoting as much of your time and energy to your studies as you possibly can for the full three years.
I hope you find this is helpful and wish you the best of luck in your pursuits.
