How to become a lawyer in BC
Lawyer (barrister and solicitor) · British Columbia
Facts checked 7 September 2026
Advise people on the law and speak for them in court. You need a university degree, three years of law school, a year of articling and bar admission.
THE ROUTE
The route at a glance
High School Preparation (Grades 11–12)
Complete Grade 11 and 12 with competitive academic standing
Undergraduate University Studies (Min 90 Credits)
Complete undergraduate university studies at an accredited institution
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Write the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Juris Doctor (JD) Law Degree
Graduate with an accredited Juris Doctor (JD) degree
Articling & Bar Admission Program (PREP)
Complete 9 months of articling and the Practice Readiness Education Program (PREP)
Call to the Bar & Practicing Certificate
Receive your call to the bar and practice as a licensed lawyer
High School Preparation (Grades 11–12)
Complete Grade 11 and 12 with competitive academic standing
Undergraduate University Studies (Min 90 Credits)
Complete undergraduate university studies at an accredited institution
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Write the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Juris Doctor (JD) Law Degree
Graduate with an accredited Juris Doctor (JD) degree
Articling & Bar Admission Program (PREP)
Complete 9 months of articling and the Practice Readiness Education Program (PREP)
Call to the Bar & Practicing Certificate
Receive your call to the bar and practice as a licensed lawyer
This is the overview. For the courses to take, the entry rules, the exams and the schools, open the full route.
See the full route, step by step →THE JOB
What the job is like
Pay and outlook from WorkBC.
Work takes place in private law offices, corporate boardrooms, and collaborative meeting suites, as well as provincial court of bc, supreme court of bc, and bc court of appeal courtrooms and chambers.
Be mindful of high mental workload, tight court filing deadlines, and continuous client accountability and follow all required safety procedures.
Advance from associate to equity partner or firm managing director, directing practice groups and business growth.
Receive provincial honorary appointment recognizing exceptional merit, legal scholarship, and public service to the legal profession.
JOBS
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
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