Can I Study Criminology in College and Still Be a Divorce Lawyer?

Yes, you can study criminology in college and still become a divorce lawyer. This is a common misconception that many students share, but it is indeed possible. At my law school, it didn't really matter what your undergraduate degree was, as long as you met the basic requirements for admission.

Law School Admission and Diversity

Law schools aim for a diverse student body, with students coming from various backgrounds. This diversity enriches the legal community as the needs of the public can be better served with a rich educational background. In our program, everyone received essentially the same LLB (Law Bachelor’s) degree, and then we completed a form of apprenticeship called articles, or an internship with an experienced lawyer, before obtaining a license to practice in our own name.

Electives and Specialization

Throughout the program, we took units, or courses, in every major area of law, including criminal, family, and business law. While it is always wise to take relevant electives in your second and third years of law school (2L and 3L), you have the freedom to choose the specific area of law you wish to specialize in after you are called to the Bar. Divorce law is just one of many potential areas you can explore.

Special Considerations in Practice

Once you are admitted to the Bar, you are free to practice in any area of law that interests you. However, dedicating time to learning about family law, especially if you are planning to specialize in divorce law, might be beneficial. Most jurisdictions, like the province of Alberta where I studied, have certain requirements for admission to the Bar, but these requirements vary.

Requirements for Admission to the Bar

To become a lawyer, you need to fulfill certain admission requirements and pass the bar exam. Typically, these requirements include a degree from an accredited law school, satisfactory performance in law school, and the completion of legal studies (articles or clerkships). Once you have these, you can choose to practice in any area of law, including divorce law.

Challenges and Opportunities

Studying criminology can provide unique insights into the legal system and can be a valuable asset when practicing divorce law. Understanding criminal justice can help you better understand the complexities of family law, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or child abuse. Additionally, the analytical and critical thinking skills developed through criminology studies can be applied to divorce law, where legal reasoning and thorough investigation are crucial.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can indeed study criminology in college and still become a divorce lawyer. While it is wise to take relevant electives and continue learning about family law, the flexibility in specialization at law school means that you can choose the area of law that aligns with your interests and skills. The key is to excel academically, meet the admission requirements for the Bar, and gain practical experience in the field of your choice.

For those interested in this path, it’s essential to research the specific requirements of the jurisdiction where you plan to practice, as these can vary greatly. Whether you choose to study criminology or any other discipline, your interdisciplinary background can make you a well-rounded and competent lawyer.