
Becoming a long-term disability lawyer is a rewarding career path for those passionate about helping individuals who are struggling with disabilities that prevent them from working. These lawyers play a key role in assisting clients with claims related to their disability insurance policies and ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve. Becoming a long term disability lawyer requires a combination of legal education, specialized training, and experience in handling complex disability cases.
Obtain a bachelor’s degree:
The first step in becoming a long-term disability lawyer is to complete an undergraduate degree. While there is no specific major required for law school, it is beneficial to choose a field that improves your critical thinking, research, and writing skills. Common degrees pursued by future lawyers include political science, criminal justice, or English. A strong academic foundation is essential as it prepares you for the challenges of law school.
Attend law school:
After completing your bachelor’s degree, the next step is to attend law school. Law school typically takes three years to complete, during which students gain an inclusive understanding of the law. Although law schools do not offer a specific track for long-term disability law, students can take elective courses related to insurance law, disability law, or health law, which are relevant to this field. During law school, it is important to participate in internships or clerkships to gain practical experience.
Pass the bar exam:
Once you graduate from law school, you must pass the bar exam in the state where you intend to practice. The bar exam is an inclusive test of your legal knowledge and skills. Passing the bar is a important step in obtaining your legal license to practice law, including specializing in long-term disability cases. Each state has its own requirements for licensure, so it is important to research the specific rules in your jurisdiction.
Gain experience in disability law:
To become a successful long-term disability lawyer, gaining experience in the field is essential. Many lawyers start by working for law firms that specialize in disability law or with legal teams handling workers’ compensation and insurance claims. Working under the mentorship of seasoned lawyers will allow you to build the expertise necessary to steer complex disability claims.