Law Schools in Sacramento CA Feature Image

Law Schools in Sacramento CA

Not in Sacramento? Check out our lists of Law Schools in San Bernardino, San Buenaventura (Ventura), San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo, Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santa Clarita, and across California.

Are you searching for the best Law Schools in Sacramento CA?

This article spotlights top institutions, highlighting their programs, faculty expertise, and unique advantages.

Get ready to discover what sets these schools apart in the legal education landscape.

McGeorge School of Law – Juris Doctor (JD)

Discovering the right law school can be a transformative experience for your career. The McGeorge School of Law, part of the University of the Pacific, stands out as one of the top law schools in Sacramento, CA. This prestigious institution, established in 1924, offers an educational experience enriched by its strategic location in California’s state capital.

McGeorge School of Law provides a wide range of programs, including:

  • Juris Doctor (JD): A comprehensive program aimed at preparing you for a successful legal career.
  • Master of Science in Law (MSL): Ideal for professionals looking to enhance their legal knowledge.
  • Master of Laws (LLM): Tailored for graduates who want to specialize in specific legal areas.
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD): Focused on those interested in scholarly and academic legal careers.
  • Master of Public Administration (MPA) & Master of Public Policy (MPP): These programs cater to individuals striving to make a significant impact through public service.

Experiential Learning Opportunities:
McGeorge is renowned for its hands-on learning approach. The school hosts numerous clinics where students apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. These include:

  • Immigration Law Clinic: Addressing the complexities of immigration law.
  • Bankruptcy Clinic: Providing practical experience in financial law issues.
  • Elder and Health Law Clinic: Focusing on legal challenges faced by the elderly and health-related concerns.
  • Legislative and Public Policy Clinic: Engaging students with the legislative process and policy advocacy.

Academic Excellence and Faculty:
The faculty at McGeorge are recognized for their expertise and commitment to student success. Academics are designed to challenge you both inside and outside the classroom, ensuring a well-rounded education. Additionally, McGeorge’s robust alumni network offers invaluable support and career development opportunities throughout your legal journey.

The rich educational experiences at McGeorge School of Law make it a premier destination for aspiring legal professionals. To explore more about their offerings, visit McGeorge School of Law.

UC Davis School of Law – LL.M. Program

UC Davis School of Law, located near Sacramento, offers an exemplary LL.M. program renowned for its academic rigor and diverse opportunities. Here, international and U.S. law students learn from globally recognized scholars.

The LL.M. program at UC Davis allows you to:

  • Learn alongside JD students: Gain insights and perspectives by engaging with peers in different legal programs.
  • Tailored Learning Experience: Customize your study to align with your personal and professional goals.
  • Summer Courses: Participate in additional offerings like English for Legal Professionals and Orientation in USA Law.

Diverse Areas of Study:
UC Davis emphasizes specialization, offering several concentrations:

  • Business Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Environmental and Natural Resources Law
  • Health Care Law
  • Human Rights and Social Justice Law
  • Intellectual Property Law
  • International Law

Commitment to Diversity and Community Involvement:
Esteemed faculty members at UC Davis are actively involved in conducting impactful research and promoting a diverse academic environment. For instance, Professor Chandrasekher’s contributions highlight the school’s dedication to community and diversity.

Hands-On Legal Clinics:
Practical experiences are vital to your legal education. UC Davis offers:

  • Civil Rights Clinic
  • Social Justice Clinic
  • Water Justice Clinic
  • Immigration Law Clinic

These clinics provide hands-on learning opportunities, ensuring you graduate with practical skills.

Comprehensive Support and Career Services:
UC Davis is committed to your academic success and career development. The school provides extensive bar exam preparation and continuous support through their career services department, guiding you toward a successful legal career.

To learn more about UC Davis School of Law and its offerings, visit UC Davis School of Law.

University of the Pacific – McGeorge School of Law

Situated in Sacramento, part of the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law has been ABA-approved since 1969. This accreditation allows graduates to sit for the bar examination across the United States, providing a solid foundation for their legal careers.

Academic Programs:

  • Juris Doctor (JD): Emphasizes a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for the Bar.
  • Master of Laws (LLM): Tailored for law graduates aiming to specialize further.
  • Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD): The ultimate academic law degree focusing on advanced research and scholarly work.
  • Master of Public Administration (MPA) & Master of Public Policy (MPP): Ideal for those aspiring to impact public administration and policy.

Unique Features:

  • Location: Being in California’s state capital, McGeorge offers unparalleled access to government agencies and courts, providing ample opportunities for internships and real-world experience.
  • Honors: The school boasts a chapter of the Order of the Coif, which reflects its high academic standards.
  • Publications: Students can contribute to prestigious journals like the University of the Pacific Law Review and the California Water Law Journal, fostering a culture of rigorous legal scholarship.

Flexible Learning Options:

Students can choose between the three-year day division or the four-year evening division, accommodating different schedules and commitments.

Financial Considerations:

  • Tuition: For the 2019-2020 academic year, full-time students paid $56,776 per year. Part-time students had an annual fee ranging from $42,418 to $47,824.

Alumni Network:

The robust network of McGeorge alumni includes influential figures in various legal and public service sectors, offering a strong support system for current students.

For more on McGeorge School of Law, visit McGeorge School of Law.

How to Choose the Best Law School in Sacramento, CA

When choosing among the best law schools in Sacramento, CA, consider several key factors. Making an informed decision ensures that you select an institution that aligns well with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.

  1. Reputation and Accreditation:
    • Ensure the law school has ABA accreditation and a strong reputation within the legal community.
  2. Program Offerings:
    • Look for schools that provide a wide range of programs and specializations that align with your career goals.
  3. Faculty Expertise:
    • Review the credentials and areas of research of the faculty members to ensure that the school offers a high standard of academic excellence.
  4. Campus Culture:
    • Visit the campuses if possible to get a feel for the environment. A supportive campus culture can enhance your learning experience and personal growth.
  5. Alumni Network:
    • A strong alumni network can provide career opportunities, mentorship, and valuable connections in the legal world.
  6. Location and Opportunities:
    • Evaluate the geographic location and the opportunities it offers. Being in Sacramento can be advantageous due to the proximity to government agencies, courts, and law firms.
  7. Financial Aid and Scholarships:
    • Consider the financial aid packages, scholarships, and tuition fees. It’s important to balance the cost of education with the quality of the program.
  8. Career Services:
    • Assess the support provided by the school’s career services, including job placements, career counseling, and networking events.

Conclusion

Choosing from the top law schools in Sacramento, CA is a pivotal decision in your legal career. Whether you lean towards McGeorge School of Law with its varied programs and prime location or UC Davis School of Law with its rich academic offerings and community involvement, each school offers distinct advantages. By considering factors such as reputation, faculty, financial aid, and career services, you can find the best fit for your career aspirations.

By thoroughly exploring your options, you can make an informed choice that aligns well with your professional and personal goals. For additional details, visit McGeorge School of Law and UC Davis School of Law.

Embark on your journey at one of these esteemed institutions and take a significant step towards a successful legal career.

This strategic and detailed guide offers a comprehensive overview of the best law schools in Sacramento, CA, ensuring you have all the information needed to make a well-rounded choice.

Scroll to Top