Get in touch: (800) 551-3410
Reviewed by:
Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University
Reviewed: 12/4/23
This guide will cover everything you need to know about becoming a construction lawyer, including what these attorneys do daily, the skills required to succeed in construction law, and more!
As an aspiring lawyer, you’ve likely heard of criminal law, family law, environmental law, intellectual property law, and corporate law—some of the most popular legal specialties students pursue.
Another popular specialty is construction law. It’s a high-paying, lucrative legal career that might be perfect for you. To learn more about this lesser-known area of law, read on.
Becoming a construction lawyer will take at least seven years, and here’s what these years will entail:
Any aspiring lawyer must complete an undergrad at an accredited university or college to qualify for law school. During your college career, ensure you maintain high grades to be considered a competitive candidate at the law schools you apply to.
Since law schools do not have prerequisites, you can choose a major that complements your strengths and interests. Develop your critical and analytical thinking, writing, and communication skills during your undergrad to be better prepared for law school.
Your transcripts alone won’t be enough to get into law school. Law schools aim to admit the most diverse and accomplished students, so they seek candidates who excel outside the classroom. Pursue useful extracurriculars that can demonstrate your well-rounded excellence.
Search for leadership roles, make meaningful contributions to any activity you join, and join at least one or two service-related extracurriculars, as service is one of the pillars of the legal field!
Another vital part of the law school application process is the LSAT. While some schools accept the GRE instead of the LSAT, the LSAT is still the most trusted form of standardized testing for law school.
Depending on the schools you hope to join, determine your target score. Find resources such as prep books, courses, or tutors that offer tailored LSAT support to help you get your desired score. Commit to a structured study plan and remain consistent!
To pursue a career as a lawyer, no matter your specialty, you’ll need to complete a JD program. Again, it’s essential to maintain high grades to have more job opportunities available during and after your legal education. Most JD programs take three years to complete, although part-time programs take four.
The MPRE is a two-hour exam that assesses law students’ knowledge and understanding of the ethical standards of professional conduct that govern the practice of law. The majority of students write this exam after their first year of law school, and each jurisdiction sets its own passing score.
Before becoming an official lawyer, the final step is to pass the bar exam. Depending on your state, you must obtain a specific score to pass this exam and gain licensure to practice law. Since the bar exam is notorious for being complicated, give yourself adequate time to study and practice before writing your exam.
The last optional step you should be aware of as we discuss how to become a construction lawyer is pursuing a Master of Legal Studies, or an LLM, in Construction Law. Completing this one-year program can make you a more competitive candidate for higher-position jobs and help you acquire more profound expertise in this specialty.
A construction lawyer is a specialized legal professional who specializes in construction law and handles matters from project planning to completion. They draft and review contracts, assist with dispute resolution, ensure regulatory compliance, manage risks, and represent various parties, including property owners, contractors, developers, architects, and suppliers.
Broadly, construction workers ensure that building projects run smoothly regarding the project contracts and the potential risks involved. To be exact, construction lawyers are responsible for the following:
Construction lawyers can be involved in any project, whether a simple renovation or a massive residential development!
There are several skills required to be successful in this specialty:
It can also be highly beneficial to have some experience in, or knowledge of, the construction field outside of the laws involved. Knowing the construction process, terminology, and people involved can help you provide the most informed legal advice.
The average salary for a construction lawyer is $111,856 a year, but with experience, they can make up to $146,185 or more. While construction law is competitive, these lawyers are in demand because they are required for every construction project.
While we’ve covered some of the most pressing questions students have about becoming construction lawyers, here are the answers to other common inquiries about this legal specialty.
Construction law is a specialty that deals with the legal side of construction projects. It encompasses a wide range of issues that arise during every stage of construction and involves the interpretation and application of contracts, regulations, and laws governing the construction process.
The average salary for a construction lawyer is $111,856 a year, but depending on experience, they can make up to $146,185 or more.
To become a construction lawyer, you must complete a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor (JD). Higher-paying positions may also require a Master’s in Legal Studies in Construction Law (LLM).
Becoming a construction lawyer will take at least seven years: four years for your undergrad and three for your JD. An LLM will add a year to this timeline.
A career as a construction lawyer offers a rewarding path that is typically less traveled within the legal profession. With the growing demand for construction workers and ample opportunities for career advancement, you’ll be making a meaningful impact in the construction industry and will be paid well for it!
Reviewed by:
Former Head of Northeastern University's Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University
