Pros and Cons of Getting a Legal Degree Online

Many people shift towards online courses today, especially after the influence of the pandemic. Instead of sitting in class, people consider getting their degrees online from the comfort of their own homes. And since the Internet allows us to communicate, work, and shop, it should be no surprise that getting a degree online is also possible.

Because many are interested in becoming lawyers without the effort of physically going to classes, they decide to learn about law online. But is this the right method? What are the pros and cons involved?

If you're interested in getting a legal degree online, you may want to know the benefits and drawbacks first. This article will tell you everything there is to know.

Pros of Getting a Legal Degree Online

• The Costs Are Lower

Let's be honest – going to university is usually very expensive. If you want to get a law degree in the United States, then enrolling in a university and attending classes will cost you a lot of money. Not everyone can afford it, especially if you want to go to one of the top institutions.

Besides the tuition costs, you may also need to move houses if the university is in a different city or state.

To spare those expenses, now you can attend online classes and still have chances of working in the legal field later on.

• More Degree Options

Going to a new city or state to get a law degree is not a good option for everyone. But the good news is that this is no longer necessary. Now, students have the opportunity to apply for programs all over the country without the necessity to relocate. This way, there are more opportunities to join high-quality programs without limiting yourself to what is closer to you.

We spoke to Alistair Vigier, who runs ClearwayLaw, a legal tech company about his experience going to law school online.

"When COVID-19 first started, many law schools switched to remote teaching. It wasn't as easy as people think. If you didn't know something, you couldn't just ask the student next to you. It felt lonely in a lot of ways. Many law firms no longer offer remote teaching for law school…" said Alistair Vigier.

• It's Very Efficient

One thing you often hear when it comes to online learning is that it's not as good as traditional learning. People worry about the efficiency of online classes, especially as, in some cases, students can do what they want without the teachers being aware.

But online learning is becoming more and more efficient. Thanks to technology, teachers can now live stream their classes while using video communication with their students. It will be just like they are sitting in class.

• The Curriculum Is Very Similar

Just because you're studying online it doesn't mean the curriculum will be completely different for you. Although there may be slight differences, getting a legal degree online usually involves the same things that a traditional degree program does.

You will take some of the same courses and study the same things, such as legal procedures, negotiation strategies, legal writing, and more. You won't miss anything that matters for your future career.

• You'll Have a Great Schedule

Some online legal degrees allow you to learn on your own schedule. Basically, you do not always have to attend classes on a specific day and time. All they require is finishing everything you're required to do, such as coursework and assignments, within a specific period. This way, you can take advantage of certain periods when you have more free time to complete your academic work while focusing on your job or other projects during busy times.

Cons of Getting a Legal Degree Online

• There May Be Technical Difficulties

Learning law online can be a bit problematic if you do not have the best device or a top Internet connection. You need a good computer or laptop with no lags, and you'll usually be able to learn from anywhere as long as your connection is flawless.

You'll only be able to study if you have high-speed, reliable Internet – so, being in an area with bad Wi-Fi connectivity will not help you that much. On top of that, some new software or technologies will not work too well if you own an older device.

• No Practical Experience

You can learn the theory from anywhere – attending classes physically is not necessary for that. However, the issue with getting a legal degree online is that there's a lack of practical experience. Only practice will allow you to develop your skills as a lawyer and learn how to implement the theory you have learned.

• Not All Programs Are Accredited

Accreditation is important, yet not all online degree programs have it. It's crucial for a program to be accredited by the American Bar Association or a different accrediting board. If this is important to you, you might have to spend a lot of time finding a program that is accredited.

Final Thoughts

It is possible to get a legal degree online and become a lawyer, as many lawyer profiles reveal they got their professional knowledge and skills through online degrees. But before you enroll, you should be aware of the pros and cons, so keep all factors in mind before applying for online programs.

(Disclaimer: Devdiscourse's journalists were not involved in the production of this article. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Devdiscourse and Devdiscourse does not claim any responsibility for the same.)