Is 56 Too Old to Go to Law School?
Age 56 should not be a deterrent for pursuing a law degree. Many people successfully complete their law studies later in life, bringing with them valuable life experience and diverse perspectives that enrich the classroom and future legal careers. Law schools often value the rich experiences of their students and the unique insights they bring.
Age is Just a Number
When I was in law school, one of my classmates was a medical doctor in his late 40s, making a career change. He brought a mature perspective to class discussions, providing a valuable and welcome addition. Your career path may differ from that of a recent graduate, but your real-world experience can help you find your niche. Just a few years ago, I took a second bar exam and was pleased to see my brain still worked just fine, provided you work smart and efficiently.
Law offers a unique opportunity to have a long-lasting career, often spanning several decades. So, if you have a passion for law and are willing to commit to the challenges, age should not be a barrier.
Financial and Personal Considerations
Robert Charles Lee, another student, agrees that age can significantly impact your decision to go to law school. If you are independently wealthy and pursuing law out of intellectual curiosity or a lifelong dream, go for it! Many aspiring lawyers—often those who recently sold successful businesses—have pursued law school for similar reasons. They found it to be an enjoyable journey.
However, if you aim for a career in law, it might be less advisable. By the time you graduate at 59, very few employers will likely hire a new lawyer of that age. Despite laws against age discrimination, these regulations are often circumvented, making such a decision a potentially significant financial loss that may lead to bitterness.
Life in Law School
Consider the practical aspects of attending law school at 56. Law schools can be demanding, both intellectually and socially. I had several students who sold their businesses and pursued law for personal fulfillment. While these experiences were enjoyable, the first two years of law school challenged me to my limits. It brought out the best and worst in students.
While you may find a supportive community among your classmates, being older can make it more difficult to fit in. Finding a social circle among younger students can be challenging. Additionally, consider the impact on your personal life. Are you married? Do you have dependent children? Discussing such plans with your family is crucial. Law school can significantly affect your financial situation, and these plans should be discussed thoroughly.
Job Prospects and Personal Motivation
By the time you graduate at 59, the job market may pose certain challenges. Many employers favor younger candidates, and the age bias can be significant. Working for yourself might be a long-term option, but it can take time to build a profitable practice. If you are already independently wealthy or have strong support from your loved ones, you may be in a better position. However, if you are not, the financial risks are significant.
Ultimately, if your passion for law is such that you would pursue it regardless of the costs, then you should do it. Life is short, and if this has been a lifelong dream, go for it. Just be mindful of the real challenges: financial commitments, potential bitterness from age discrimination, and the impact on your personal life. As long as you are willing to face these realities, it is absolutely worth it.