NCJ Number
79010
Date Published
1980
Length
127 pages
Annotation
Based on research studies conducted primarily by the American Bar Foundation, this report evaluates contemporary legal education and suggests ways it could be improved.
Abstract
A brief history of legal education in the United States from the late 18th century through the 1970's emphasizes attempts at reform. The objectives of this study and the research program of the American Bar Foundation are then outlined. A review of research studies on legal education begins with factors which affect the choice of a legal career and a particular law school and then addresses law schools themselves in terms of student attitudes, curricula, skills taught, responsibility for the quality of advocacy found in the courts, and the background characteristics of law school teachers. Other research areas considered include the transition from law school to law practice and status given to specialities within the profession. A summary section notes that the best qualified students tend to congregate in the top law schools and that law schools do their best work in teaching skills of analysis and synthesis. Many studies reflect a clear desire for more practical legal education by students and practitioners. The report also concludes that indicators of success and prestige have a profound and enduring impact of the context of practice and opportunties to enter particular specialities. The discussion of financial problems facing law schools comments that the use of large classes in many schools has caused capital improvements, research programs, library collections, and innovative instruction to be neglected. Alternative funding methods are suggested. Finally, recommendations of the American Bar Association's (ABA's) Special Committee for a Study of Legal Education are presented. Footnotes are provided. The appendixes contain a bibliography of approximately 50 reports and articles which have emerged from ABA research programs and a 1953 statement on prelegal education by the Association of American Law Schools.