President Obama commented today that law school should be two years instead of three. He’s right. While I enjoyed my 3L year and took some interesting classes, it didn’t teach me anything that would have made me a better attorney. If it’s possible to earn a master’s degree in two years, a law degree shouldn’t take any longer.
“But it’s a doctorate!” you say. Shut up. We’re not learning how to cut people open or teach particle physics. Two years should be enough time to learn the necessary writing and critical thinking skills that most attorneys need. Law schools will likely resist any change that would result in lower revenue, but perhaps a few courageous deans will implement this idea and other schools will be pressured to follow suit.
What do my fellow attorneys think? Did that third year impart crucial wisdom to you?
