Career guides · Law & Government

How to become a Lawyer

Lawyers advise people and companies on the law and represent them in court. Some argue cases in court; others work on contracts, property or company law.

The route from Class 10

  1. Class 10
    Choose your stream
  2. Class 11–12
    Arts/Humanities or Commerce

    In Class 11–12, take Arts/Humanities or Commerce.

  3. After Class 12
    CLATAILET

    A five-year law degree starts straight after Class 12. CLAT is for most National Law Universities and AILET for NLU Delhi; other colleges use state tests or their own.

  4. Then
    Study, skills and first job

    Set out step by step in the Career Blueprint.

  5. Where this path leads
    Lawyer

What the work involves

  • Reading case files and researching the law
  • Drafting petitions, contracts and notices
  • Arguing cases in court or negotiating a settlement

You might enjoy it if

  • You like reading and making an argument with evidence
  • You write and speak clearly
  • Fairness and rules matter to you

Is it right for you?

This page is the same for every student. The free Career Sketch looks at your interests, personality and learning style, and shows the career that matches you best. It takes about 20 minutes.

Take the free Career Sketch

Still choosing a stream? Compare all four in the Stream Matrix, or talk it through with a counsellor.

Also check

Civil ServantAll career guides

Exam rules checked October 2026. They change from year to year, so confirm with the official body before you apply.