Law Schools in Bakersfield CA

Searching for the best law schools in Bakersfield, CA?

This guide is your go-to resource. We break down the top programs, whether you’re looking for accredited institutions, part-time options, or pathways for non-traditional students.

Ready to find the right fit for your legal education journey? We’ve got the details laid out for you.

Kern County College of Law – Legal Education Program

Kern County College of Law – Legal Education Program is housed at 1731 Chester Avenue, Suite 200 in Bakersfield, CA. As an unaccredited fixed-facility law school registered with the State Bar of California, it offers a unique opportunity for prospective lawyers.

Why Choose Kern County College of Law?

• Accessibility: This institution is dedicated to making legal education available to a broader audience.
• Flexibility: The program requires a minimum of 270 classroom hours per year, stretched over four years, allowing students to accommodate their schedules.
• Focus on Practical Education: Despite its unaccredited status, the institution aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience.

What to Consider

• Bar Admission Eligibility: Attending an unaccredited law school might impact your eligibility for bar admission in California. Completion of the course here is subject to the California Business and Professions Code 6060 and the Admissions Rules.
• Independent Research: Prospective students are encouraged to research bar exam pass/fail statistics and consult with current students, pre-legal advisors, and career counselors for a broader perspective.

Kern County College of Law is committed to preparing its students for the legal field, although attending an unaccredited institution entails weighing specific pros and cons.

Kern County College of Law – Law Program

Kern County College of Law – Law Program is an accredited branch of Monterey College of Law, approved by the State Bar of California. Located at 1731 Chester Avenue, Suite 200, this program began in Summer 2017 and offers part-time evening courses to accommodate working professionals and non-traditional students.

Key Benefits

• Evening Courses: Classes are held in the evening, taught by local legal experts including judges and lawyers.
• No “Baby Bar”: The program does not require the First Year Law Student Exam (“Baby Bar”), simplifying the path to becoming an attorney.
• Inclusivity: It admits high-achieving A.A. graduates or those with at least 60 undergraduate units, even without a bachelor’s degree.

Specialized Support

• Integrated Bar Preparation: Bar exam preparation is seamlessly included in the curriculum and tuition costs.
• Community-Driven: Prominent local figures, such as District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer, contribute, emphasizing practicality.

This program is structured to provide a high-quality education with a strong emphasis on practical legal training.

Bakersfield College – Pathway to Law School Program

Bakersfield College – Pathway to Law School Program partners with The State Bar of California to guide you into a legal career. This program aims to help underrepresented groups and paves the way for further studies at prestigious law schools.

Benefits and Opportunities

• Comprehensive Skill Development: Emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
• Personalized Support: Offers personalized counseling, mentoring, LSAT preparation support, and financial aid counseling.
• Extensive Network: Provides networking opportunities, law-related activities, and waived application fees at participating law schools such as UC Berkeley and UCLA.

Prepare for Success

Upon completion, students are designated as California LAW Scholars. The program supports students through its robust advisory system, ensuring you are well-prepared for your legal education journey.

California State University, Bakersfield – Pre-Law Program

California State University, Bakersfield – Pre-Law Program provides a strong foundation with concentrations in Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science. Directed by Dr. Jeanine E. Kraybill, the program equips students with the necessary tools to pursue a career in law.

Program Features

• Diverse Concentrations: Study Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science to gain a multifaceted understanding of law.
• Dedicated Pre-Law Minor: CSUB offers a Pre-Law minor to provide targeted coursework aligning with law school standards.
• Supportive Environment: The Pre-Law Society, under Dr. Kraybill’s advisory, ensures constant guidance and support.

Preparing for Law School

This program is tailored to help students gain a competitive edge in their law school applications through rigorous academic preparation and strategic advisement.

California State University, Bakersfield – Pre-Law Program for Students with Criminal Records

California State University, Bakersfield – Pre-Law Program for Students with Criminal Records includes a unique initiative: the Pop-Up Expungement Clinic. This program offers free legal services from volunteer attorneys to help clear criminal records.

Enhanced Accessibility

• Free Legal Services: Provides essential support to clear criminal records, aiding in law school admission and employment prospects.
• Inclusivity and Support: Facilitates valuable networking opportunities with legal professionals and mentors, further supporting your career aspirations.

This specialized approach offers a pathway to a legal career for those facing considerable barriers, promoting inclusivity and second chances.

In summary, each of these programs offers distinct benefits tailored to various needs and backgrounds. Whether you’re seeking accredited education, part-time flexibility, or post-expungement opportunities, Bakersfield, CA has a variety of law school options to fit your goals.

Kern County College of Law – Juris Doctor Program

The Kern County College of Law – Juris Doctor Program stands out as a robust choice for aspiring attorneys in Bakersfield, CA. This accredited branch of the Monterey College of Law meets all requirements set by the California Committee of Bar Examiners, ensuring you receive a rigorous and comprehensive education.

Why Kern County College of Law JD Program?

• Quality Education: The program is designed to deliver a high-quality legal education focusing on thorough bar exam preparation.
• Supportive Learning: Enjoy a collaborative and supportive learning environment that nurtures your academic and professional growth.
• Affordable Tuition: The program offers competitive tuition fees with financial aid options, making it accessible for various students.

Key Features

• Experienced Faculty: With instructors who are seasoned practitioners, including judges and lawyers, you’re guaranteed practical insights and mentorship.
• Integrated Curriculum: The curriculum includes essential bar preparation, providing a seamless transition from academic learning to bar exam readiness.
• Local Involvement: Benefit from local legal community engagement, enhancing your practical training and networking opportunities.

In weighing your options, consider visiting the Kern County College of Law to learn more about their offerings, admissions process, and how they align with your career goals.

Making Your Law School Choice in Bakersfield CA

Selecting the right law school in Bakersfield, CA, involves several major considerations. This guide aims to help you identify key factors to ensure you make an informed decision.

Evaluating Accreditation

• Accredited vs. Unaccredited: Choose an accredited law school like Kern County College of Law to meet educational standards and streamline your path to bar exam eligibility. Unaccredited institutions, like Kern County College of Law – Legal Education Program, might pose additional challenges for bar admission.

Faculty Expertise and Curriculum

• Qualified Instructors: Investigate the qualifications and real-world experience of faculty members. Schools such as CSUB and Kern County College of Law feature instructors who are active legal professionals.
• Specialization and Bar Prep: Look for programs with integrated bar exam preparation and courses tailored to your interest areas, ensuring a well-rounded legal education.

Cost and Financial Aid

• Affordable Tuition: Consider schools offering competitive tuition fees and robust financial aid packages to minimize financial strain.
• Financial Assistance: Bakersfield College Pathway to Law School and Kern County College of Law provide financial counseling and aid options, easing your journey toward a legal career.

Support Systems and Networking

• Career Services: Prioritize institutions offering extensive career services, such as Bakersfield College’s Pathway to Law School, which includes counseling, LSAT prep, and networking events.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Engage with programs where mentorship and practical legal experience are emphasized, like CSUB’s Pre-Law Program.

Key Steps to Consider

1. Research Thoroughly: Dive into detailed program offerings and compare how each institution meets your career and academic needs.
2. Visit and Engage: Schedule visits and speak with current students and alumni for authentic insights.
3. Consult Advisors: Utilize pre-legal advisors and career counselors to help guide your decision-making process.

By analyzing these factors, you’ll be better equipped to select a law school in Bakersfield, CA that aligns with your goals and sets the stage for a successful legal career.

Conclusion: Take the Next Step

Your choice of law school is pivotal to your legal career. This guide has covered the top law schools in Bakersfield, CA, each with unique features and benefits.

To ensure you make the right choice, delve deeper into the programs, visit campuses, and consult advisors. Your legal education journey is just beginning, and with the right school, you can set yourself up for a promising future in law.