How to Get Into the Top Law Schools

by Richard Montauk

The authoritative guide to gaining admission into a law school with the clout to launch a powerhouse career. Aspiring lawyers know the a degree from a prestigious school means an edge on the competition--and the promise of a prosperous future. Each year, more than 130,000 men and women take the LSAT with hopes of making the grade for a quality program. But the odds are against the nation's most respected institutions typically accept only one applicant in five. How To Get Into The Top Law Schools reveals facts and insights that can make the difference. Richard Montauk, a savvy admissions insider who is also a lawyer, demystifies the entire application process--and provides the targeted tools to ace every step. Based on interviews with dozens of admissions officers, he offers an up-close and candid view of what leading law schools look for in an applicant. And he gives applicants solid, detailed advice on how to assess and upgrade their credentials to better match that ideal profile. From honing in on the right school to landing a plum job upon graduation, this guide gives you the inside scoop. Applicants will learn how to write high quality essays for maximum impact; choose and then manage their recommenders; anticipate every possible scenario and interview persuasively; maneuver the financial aid maze. Complete with a detailed timetable showing what needs to be done when, this comprehensive and reliable resource is a must for anyone serious about a future in law.

Genres: Law, Nonfiction

Mass Market Paperback

First published August 1, 2001

Reviews

[leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated the depth of analysis, the frank tone, and the author's identification of third and fourth order consequences of investing in a law degree. I'm extremely glad I consulted this book during my decision-making process.

[Vivek · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really great guide to the law school admissions process, with advice on how to make the most of your application. Highly recommend for anyone applying (or considering) applying to law school. I used it to apply last cycle and found it very useful (I ended up at U. Penn).

[Owen Goodrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

crazy stuff.

[Revathi · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are several law school guidebooks out there, but so far I've found this one to be the most comprehensive (by a long shot). Montauk does a wonderful job of outlining the application process from beginning to end in a clear, detailed and well-organized manner. Every problem/hiccup/question that arose during my application process is addressed (often in great detail) somewhere in this book.
Another advantage of the book is that it includes feedback straight from the admissions deans at several of the top law schools. It is interesting to note the similarities and differences in their respective admissions policies at various stages of the process.

If you're looking for a concise guide that can (quickly) be read cover-to-cover, I would instead recommend The Ivey Guide to Law School Admissions.
But for a comprehensive reference, this is THE go-to book.

[Shayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for a person who is looking to go to Law School, it helps with the whole process from LSAT, Application and the writing the essay and more. I love how this book directs you to the chapters that are critical to you and your Law school journey.

[DJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

the advice was decent enough but dated. however the perspective was often smug, presumptuous, and pointed directly at a specific set of applicants (e.g. wealthy, young). there is better material available elsewhere, whether at a public library, career services office, or online.

[Sadaf Kazmi · Rating 5 out of 5]

the content of this book is very similar to that of the MBA version, however the law school specific information is really useful.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty much a must for someone in a law-school applying panic like me!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great guide for law school applicants with advice from actual admissions personal from top law schools.

[Carol Rugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful, thought provoking and comprehensive.