How to Become a Lawyer in India: Step-by-Step Career Guide

The legal profession in India has long been considered prestigious and intellectually rewarding. Opportunities for future legal professionals are expanding in corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, and other fields as the country's legal system evolves rapidly. However, as businesses grow and regulatory frameworks become more complex, the demand for skilled legal practitioners continues to rise.

If you are wondering how to become a lawyer in India, the journey starts with understanding the necessary qualifications, entrance exams, and career pathways. From meeting the eligibility criteria to selecting a legal specialization, each step requires careful planning. This guide covers legal education in India, key law entrance examinations, and the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) role in shaping your professional journey. You will also learn about the LLB degree, essential skills for a legal career, and how different specializations influence your path.

Whether you are drawn to litigation, corporate law, or legal advisory roles, the road ahead offers many possibilities. Let’s explore how to become a lawyer in India by exploring the steps to launching your career as a lawyer.

Educational Pathways to Becoming a Lawyer in India

Before choosing your undergraduate major, take time to consider why legal studies? It’s an excellent choice for students interested in justice, advocacy, and making a difference in society.

To begin a career in law, the first step is obtaining the necessary educational qualifications. Whether you choose a five-year integrated law program or a three-year LLB, successfully completing the course allows you to enter the legal profession in India. Every aspiring law student should be aware of these pathways, the eligibility criteria for each, and the entrance exams required for admission.

Pursuing a 5-Year Integrated Law Degree

Overview:

The law school duration for integrated programs is typically five years. Students can enroll in the five-year integrated law program after completing their higher secondary education (10+2). The curriculum combines a law degree with a bachelor’s degree in disciplines like arts, commerce, or management. This pathway provides a comprehensive foundation in legal concepts, case laws, and practical skills, making it the most direct route to becoming a lawyer.

Available Programs: 

Common integrated law programs include:

• BA LLB
• BBA LLB
• B.Com LLB. 

Curriculum and Subjects:

The program covers a mix of legal concepts, case laws, and practical skills. Key subjects include: 

• Constitutional law
• Criminal law
• Corporate law
• International law. 

Practical Training: 

Students gain hands-on experience through: 

• Internships
• Moot courts
• Legal research 

Admission Process: 

Admission typically requires clearing one of the following entrance exams:

• Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)
• All India Law Entrance Test (AILET)
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT-India)
• Symbiosis Law Admission Test (SLAT).

Course Structure:

Benefits:

• Saves time & offers an early career start
• Provides well-rounded knowledge in law and other disciplines
• Better job prospects & higher employability
• Strong alumni & professional network
• More opportunities for internships and practical training.

Opting for a 3-Year LLB Program

Overview:

For students who have already earned a degree in another field and later decide to pursue law, the three-year LLB program is the ideal choice. This course focuses entirely on legal subjects, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of key legal areas. It combines theoretical and practical knowledge to help develop core competencies for a successful career in law. If you're planning a legal career, understanding how to do LLB in India is the first step toward entering the field.

Curriculum and Subjects:

The program covers a mix of legal concepts, case laws, and practical skills. Key subjects include: 

• Constitutional law
• Criminal law
• Corporate law
• International law. 

Practical Training: 

Students gain hands-on experience through: 

• Internships
• Moot courts
• Legal research 

Admission Process: 

Admission typically requires clearing one of the following entrance exams:

• Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MH CET Law)
• Delhi University (DU LLB)
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT-India)

Course Structure & Subjects:

The 3-year LLB curriculum covers core legal subjects along with practical training.

Benefits of a 3-Year LLB:

• Ideal for students who decide to pursue law after completing another undergraduate degree.
• A focused 3-year program instead of 5 years, making it faster for career entry.
• Graduates can enter litigation, corporate law, government services, academia, and the judiciary.
• Recognized by the Bar Council of India, as it allows graduates to practice law in India after passing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE).

Also Read: LLB vs LLM: Eligibility, Admission and Career Opportunities in 2025

Admission Through Entrance Examinations

In India, law aspirants must clear competitive entrance exams such as CLAT, AILET, and LSAT-India to secure admission to undergraduate law programs. These exams assess legal aptitude, reasoning, general knowledge, and other relevant skills. Performing well in these tests increases the chances of gaining admission to top-ranked law schools, providing a strong foundation for a legal career. Choosing the right law books can make a significant difference in preparing for competitive exams

Widely accepted law entrance exams in India include:

• CLAT (Common Law Admission Test): The most widely accepted law entrance exam in India. It is mandatory for admission to National Law Universities (NLUs) and some private law schools.
• AILET (All India Law Entrance Test): Conducted by NLU Delhi exclusively for its law programs. The exam tests English proficiency, legal aptitude, and reasoning skills.
• LSAT-India (Law School Admission Test – India): Accepted by various private law colleges across the country.
• MH CET Law (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test): Required for admission to law colleges in Maharashtra, including Government Law College (GLC) Mumbai.
• DU LLB Entrance Exam: This is conducted for admission to the three-year LLB program at Delhi University.

Are you unsure about how to become a lawyer in India? Enroll in upGrad’s Master of Laws (LLM) course to advance in the field.

Enrolling With The Bar Council of India

The next step in becoming a lawyer in India is registering with the Bar Council of India. Each state's State Bar Council is responsible for enrolling lawyers under its jurisdiction. To become an advocate, candidates must pass the All India Bar Examination, meet specific educational requirements, and comply with BCI regulations.

State Bar Council Registration

The State Bar Council operates at the state level and regulates the enrollment of law graduates before they begin practicing. Registering with the respective State Bar Council is a necessary step in meeting the eligibility requirements for practicing law in India.

Procedure for Registration With the State Bar Council

• Select the State Bar Council: Choose based on your intended practice location.
• Submit Required Documents:
  • LLB degree and mark sheets
  • Identity proof
  • Character certificate
• Pay Enrollment Fee: Pay the stipulated fee set by the respective State Bar Council.
• Verification: Upon verification, you will receive a provisional enrollment certificate.
• Complete Internship: Complete an internship or training under a practicing advocate before obtaining full-fledged advocate status.

Clearing The All India Bar Examination (AIBE)

The All India Bar Examination is conducted at the national level by the BCI to assess a lawyer’s ability to practice law. After completing an internship, law graduates must pass this qualifying exam to obtain a Certificate of Practice, officially allowing them to practice law in India.

Key Highlights of AIBE:

• It is an open-book exam covering subjects such as constitutional law, corporate law, and professional ethics.
• Conducted twice a year in multiple regional languages.
• No negative marking: (Correct answer - 1 mark, wrong answer - no negative mark, unanswered question - 0 marks)
• Upon passing, candidates receive a Certificate of Practice, granting them the right to work as lawyers in India.

Successfully clearing the AIBE certifies you as a lawyer, enabling you to pursue various legal careers, including corporate law, litigation, and legal advisory roles.

Looking for a successful law career in India? Start your legal journey with upGrad’s Law programs for exciting opportunities in emerging legal domains!

Eligibility Criteria For Law Courses in India

If you are researching how to become a lawyer in India, understanding the eligibility criteria for different law programs is essential. Admission into law colleges requires candidates to meet the lawyer eligibility in India, which include academic qualifications, age limits, and entrance exam requirements. These criteria ensure that aspiring lawyers have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary before entering the legal profession.

Educational Qualifications

The educational qualification required for law courses in India depends on whether you are pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate law degree.

For a 5-year integrated LLB Degree:

• Candidates must have completed higher secondary education (10+2) from a recognized board.
• The minimum qualifying marks range between 45% and 50%, depending on the category (General/OBC/ST/SC).
• Admission is based on performance in law entrance exams such as CLAT, AILET, and LSAT-India.

For a 3-year LLB Degree:

• Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum qualifying marks typically range between 45% and 60%, with variations based on category (General/OBC/ST/SC).
• Admission is determined by performance in law entrance exams like DU LLB, LSAT-India, and others.
• There is no upper age limit for applicants.

For LLM (Master of Law Program)

• Candidates must have an LLB degree (either a 5-year integrated program or a 3-year course) from a recognized university.
• The minimum qualifying marks range between 50% and 55% in most institutions.
• Admission to top law colleges requires qualifying entrance exams such as CLAT PG, AILET PG, or university-specific tests.

Age Limitations

The Bar Council of India has set age limitations for certain law programs, though specific policies may vary across universities.

For 5-Year Integrated LLB Courses:

• Some universities impose a maximum age limit of 20 years (22 years for SC/ST candidates).
• Other universities do not have an upper age limit.

For 3-Year LLB Courses:

• The Bar Council of India has removed the age limit, allowing candidates of any age to apply.

For LLM Programs:

• There are no age restrictions for postgraduate law programs.

Since age criteria may differ among institutions, it is advisable to check individual university policies for the latest updates.

Also Read: Career in Law: How to start, Salary, Opportunities

Entrance Examination Requirements

India has multiple law entrance examinations, and understanding their requirements is essential for securing admission to top law colleges. These exams determine eligibility and play a significant role in the admission process. Knowing how to start studying law begins with preparing for entrance exams like CLAT or LSAT, which most top law colleges require. 

1. Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)

• Accepted by National Law Universities (NLUs) and other leading institutions.
• Candidates must have completed higher secondary education (HSC) with at least 45% marks.
• No upper or lower age limit applies.
• Candidates must receive a score of between 92 and 100 to be admitted to the best NLUs.

2. All India Law Entrance Test (AILET)

• Conducted by NLU Delhi for BA LLB, LLM, and PhD programs.
• One of the most competitive exams with limited seats.
• Eligibility:
  • UG (BA LLB): Candidates must have completed 12th grade with at least 40% marks.
  • PG (LLM): Candidates must hold an LLB degree with a minimum of 50% marks.
  • PhD: Requires a master’s degree with at least 50% marks for the general category and 45% for reserved categories.

3. Law School Admission Test – India (LSAT-India)

• Conducted by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
• No upper age limit.
• Candidates must have obtained at least 40% marks or meet the minimum eligibility criteria of their preferred law college.

4. DU LLB Entrance Exam

• Required for admission into Delhi University’s 3-year LLB program.
• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum marks required:
  • 50% (General category)
  • 40% (Reserved categories)
• No age limit applies.

5. MH CET Law

• State-level law entrance exam for colleges in Maharashtra.
• Candidates must have passed 12th grade from a recognized board.
• Minimum marks required:
  • 45% (General category)
  • 42% (OBC category)
  • 40% (ST/SC category)

Want to enroll in free law courses? Enroll in upGrad’s free online law courses to gain valuable insights and certifications to boost your career.

Types of Lawyers in India

When exploring how to become a lawyer in India, understanding the different legal specializations is essential. Lawyers represent businesses, individuals, and organizations in various legal matters. Choosing the right specialization depends on an individual’s skill set and career aspirations. 

Let’s explore the types of lawyers in India, along with their responsibilities. 

Civil Lawyers

A civil lawyer handles legal disputes related to personal injury, family relationships, employment, and real estate. Their cases typically do not involve criminal offenses. Their primary role is to resolve disputes and secure compensation or other legal remedies for their clients.

Responsibilities:

• Specialize in areas such as contract disputes, child custody, divorce, defamation, and consumer protection.
• Worked towards financial settlements, compensation claims, and enforcing contractual obligations.
• Handle non-criminal disputes and represent clients in legal proceedings.
• Drafted legal documents and provided legal advice and strategies for civil cases.

Salary: 

The annual salary range for civil lawyers based on experience is given below:

Source: AmbitionBox

Criminal Lawyer

Criminal lawyers defend individuals and organizations facing criminal charges. The field includes public prosecutors, defense attorneys, bail attorneys, juvenile lawyers, and plea bargain lawyers. Criminal lawyers must have extensive knowledge of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the Indian Constitution. If you're exploring the top career options for lawyers, criminal law remains one of the most sought-after and lucrative fields due to its dynamic nature and high demand across industries.

Responsibilities:

• Represented clients in court, provided legal counsel, and guided them on their rights and available legal options.
• Collect evidence, interview witnesses, and present arguments in court on behalf of the client.
• Conduct research, negotiate legal matters, and work toward client protection.
• Ensure that individuals accused of crimes receive a fair trial and that guilty parties are penalized according to the law.

Corporate Lawyers

Corporate lawyers serve as legal advisors, protecting businesses from legal risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and facilitating corporate operations. Their expertise includes contract laws, securities, taxation, accounting, and intellectual property laws. 

Responsibilities: 

• Draft and negotiate contracts, advise business owners on legal regulations, and ensure compliance with corporate laws.
• Assist in structuring mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and represent corporations in business-related legal matters.
• Handle issues related to corporate governance, intellectual property, business transactions, and regulatory compliance.

Read More: How to Become A Corporate Lawyer: A Complete Roadmap to Success

Public Interest Lawyer

Public interest lawyers focus on civil rights cases, addressing issues such as gender discrimination, racial and ethnic bias, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protection, disability rights, and human rights violations.

Responsibilities: 

• Advocate for justice in marginalized communities and provide legal support to disadvantaged groups.
• Represent NGOs, activists, and underprivileged individuals in legal proceedings.
• Engage in research, policy advocacy, and litigation to uphold public interest laws.
• Draft and enforce laws and regulations that promote social justice.

Intellectual Property (IP) Lawyers

Intellectual property law protects original works, inventions, and creative ideas. IP lawyers specialize in trade secrets, copyrights, patents, and trademarks, helping clients secure legal rights over their intellectual property.

Responsibilities: 

• Safeguard the intellectual property rights of businesses, authors, artists, and inventors.
• Assist clients in registering copyrights, patents, and trademarks while providing legal strategies for IP protection.
• Draft and negotiate contracts related to IP transfers, licensing, and infringement disputes.

Family Lawyers

Family lawyers handle legal disputes and issues that arise within families. Their practice includes guardianship, divorce, emancipation, adoption, inheritance laws, and succession planning. Family law is one of the most in-demand legal fields in India.

Responsibilities:

• Assist clients in negotiating settlements, drafting agreements, and representing them in family courts.
• Provide legal guidance on inheritance laws, succession planning, and wills.
• Handle disputes and offer legal solutions that safeguard family interests.

Also Read: Top 10 Career Opportunities in Law in India: Salary, Skills

Want to build a strong foundation in public law and rights-based litigation? Start your journey with upGrad's Constitutional Litigation course today.

Essential Skills For A Successful Legal Career

The answer to how to become a lawyer in India requires more than academic knowledge. Law is a profession that demands a combination of legal expertise, analytical thinking, and effective communication. Whether pursuing corporate law, criminal defense, or public interest litigation, honing the right skills is essential.

Let’s look at the fundamental skills for lawyers to shape a successful legal career in India.

Analytical and Research Skills

Lawyers must possess strong analytical skills to interpret legal statutes, evaluate cases, and construct well-founded arguments. Legal research plays a crucial role in preparing for cases, drafting contracts, and advising clients. Lawyers need to research precedents, statutory laws, and legal principles before appearing in court or providing legal counsel.

Why is it important?

• Aids in the efficient drafting of contracts and legal documents.
• Helps determine the most effective legal tactics for certain situations.
• Supports the development of arguments by referencing relevant precedents and case laws.

Ways to improve:

• Enroll in legal research and writing courses from recognized universities.
• Gain hands-on experience through case analysis and legal brief writing.
• Join legal forums and online law communities to stay updated on legal databases and case law developments.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

A lawyer must be proficient in both verbal and written communication. Whether presenting arguments in court, negotiating settlements, or advising clients, clarity and persuasion are essential.

Why is it Important?

• Strengthens courtroom advocacy and legal document drafting.
• Soft skills improve negotiations and client counseling.
• Enhances teamwork and collaboration in legal firms.

Ways to Improve:

• Take public speaking and negotiation skills courses.
• Participate in mock trials, debates, and client consultations.
• Refine writing skills through legal blogs, case briefs, and research papers.

Ethical Judgement and Integrity

The Bar Council of India enforces a strict code of ethics to maintain fairness, confidentiality, and trust in legal practice.

Why is it Important?

• Strengthens professional reputation.
• Upholds justice and prevents conflicts of interest.
• Ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Ways to Improve:

• Stay updated on the Bar Council of India's code of conduct.
• Take ethics courses covering legal morality and professional responsibility.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in all professional dealings.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

Law is constantly evolving, requiring lawyers to stay updated with new laws, judicial rulings, and legal specializations. Adaptability is essential for tackling complex cases, exploring new practice areas, and integrating technology into legal work.

Why is it Important?

• Keeps lawyers informed about legal amendments and compliance updates.
• Facilitates smooth transitions across different legal fields.
• Expands career opportunities and professional credibility.

Ways to Improve:

• You can pursue domain-specific legal programs such as cyber law, intellectual property law, corporate law, and others.
• Read legal journals, case studies, and industry reports.
• Attend workshops, legal seminars, and continuing legal education (CLE) programs.

Navigating The Legal Job Market In 2025

With emerging practice areas, digital transformation, and evolving client needs, the Indian legal job market is undergoing rapid change. While traditional legal careers remain strong, fields such as environmental law, cyber law, and artificial intelligence law are gaining traction. Lawyers must stay proactive, tech-savvy, and well-connected to expand their opportunities.

Emerging Practice Areas in Law

As industries evolve, so do their legal demands. Some of the fastest-growing legal fields in India include:

• Cyber Law: The rise in online transactions, cybercrime, and data breaches has increased the demand for specialists in cybersecurity, data privacy, and online fraud cases.
• Technology Law & Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-driven innovations require legal oversight in automation policies, AI ethics, and intellectual property rights for AI-generated content. If you're interested in legal frameworks surrounding AI ethics and digital transformation, consider pursuing an LL.M. in AI and Emerging Technologies course.
• Environmental and Sustainability Law: With stricter climate regulations, lawyers focusing on green energy, corporate sustainability compliance, and environmental policies are in high demand.
• FinTech & Cryptocurrency Law: As digital banking and blockchain technology evolve, legal experts in digital payments, cryptocurrency regulations, and financial compliance are needed.

With technology shaping the legal landscape, demand for professionals in these sectors is expected to grow rapidly.

Building a Professional Network

In the legal profession, building a professional network is essential. This network provides a range of opportunities, mentorship, and career growth. Here’s how you can expand your legal network in India.

• Join Legal Associations and Bars:

Stay updated on industry regulations by joining legal associations and bar councils and participating in professional groups like the Indian Law Institute (ILI). Attend law summits, moot court competitions, and bar council events to connect with senior legal professionals.

• Engage on LinkedIn and Legal Forums:

Showcase your legal skills and experience, and connect with lawyers and corporate legal experts in your field. Participate in legal forums to exchange insights and stay informed about industry trends.

• Attend Legal Conferences and Webinars:

Participate in legal seminars, workshops, and forums to stay informed about industry trends. Network with judges, advocates, and corporate law experts, and stay updated on legal developments.

• Secure Internships:

Apply for internships at law firms, corporate legal departments, and public interest organizations to gain practical experience and mentorship from experienced lawyers.

• Participate in Moot Courts & Legal Aid Programs:

Engage in moot court competitions to refine your advocacy skills and gain industry recognition. Volunteer for legal aid initiatives and pro bono cases to build credibility in the field.

Leveraging Technology in Legal Practice

Technology is transforming legal practice in India, from case administration and legal research to virtual court proceedings and AI-powered contract analysis. Here are some ways lawyers can use technology to enhance efficiency and stay competitive. If you’re wondering about how to become a lawyer in India, then leveraging technology in legal practices is the key to your question. 

Legal Research and AI-Powered Tools

• Platforms like Manupatra and SCC Online provide access to case law, precedents, and legal journals
•  AI tools such as ROSS Intelligence and CaseIQ streamline research, making it faster. 

E-Filing

• E-filing portals simplify document submissions, making litigation faster and more accessible.
• Saves money on printing, postage, and travel.
• Encrypted systems protect sensitive data, and automated checks minimize mistakes in filings. 

Virtual Court Hearings

• Adapting to digital courtrooms has become a growing trend post-pandemic.
• It eliminates the need for physical appearance, saving time. 
• Speeds up proceedings by reducing delays.
• Enhanced security and digital records.

E-Contracts and Online Dispute Resolution

• Managing contract negotiations and arbitration online is becoming increasingly common.
• Cloud-based storage solutions ensure secure document management and case tracking.
• Instantly created, signed, and shared online without the need of physical presence.
• Encrypted digital signatures ensure authenticity.

Legal Analytics and Automation

• Leveraging data-driven insights strengthens cases and improves legal strategies.
• It provides faster, more accurate case searches.
• Help lawyers develop strong arguments based on data insights.
• Identifies potential risk before it escalates. 

Considering an LLM? Explore our detailed overview of the LLM Subjects List and Syllabus to understand the curriculum and choose the right specialization for your career goals.

How upGrad Helps You Become a Lawyer in India

Still wondering how to become a lawyer in India? Succeeding in the legal field requires both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure, along with networking opportunities. upGrad exper-let platform provides numerous opportunities, hands-on experience, and career transition support, whether you’re starting fresh or are an experienced professional looking to expand your expertise.

Industry-Aligned Certification Courses

To make your how to become a lawyer in India journey smoother, upGrad offers industry-aligned courses designed in collaboration with professionals who are experts in their fields. These courses bridge the talent gap and provide the expertise needed to excel in this competitive industry.

These courses are designed according to the various skill sets and individuals’ interests. 

Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

upGrad supports students in advancing their careers by connecting them with experienced senior professionals and domain experts. Students receive additional support and guidance from seasoned mentors who are well-versed in the latest trends and best practices in the field. These mentors assist in building an industry-ready portfolio. Additionally, students gain access to an active alumni network, where fellow graduates help each other discover opportunities and expand professional connections. These professionals also provide insights into salary trends and employment offers.

To assist learners in navigating real-world difficulties through expert insights, upGrad offers individualized coaching from senior leaders and subject experts. upGrad’s experts also provide students with free career advice sessions on how to transition to legal roles. 

Career Transition Support

upGrad facilitates career transitions by offering more than just skill training. The expert-led platform assists students in refining resumes to effectively highlight skills and achievements. The platform’s expert panel provides one-on-one feedback on resume building and LinkedIn profile optimization.

The career transition team also helps students develop practical experience in salary negotiations and interview questions specific to the legal sector. With resume-building support, interview preparation, hiring partnerships, and networking events, upGrad’s career transition services equip students for a successful legal career.

Conclusion

The process of how to become a lawyer in India is simple. By earning a recognized legal degree, preparing strategically for law entrance exams, passing the required tests, and registering with the Bar Council of India, aspiring lawyers can enter the profession with confidence. No matter your chosen specialization, whether corporate law, criminal defense, or intellectual property, developing essential legal skills will give you a competitive edge.

With the evolving legal field, staying updated through continued education and skill development is essential. upGrad partners with top law colleges in India to offer industry-aligned programs that provide the expertise needed to succeed. Now is the time to explore the best courses, gain in-demand skills, and take the next step toward a successful legal career.

Whether you're looking for career guidance, course details, or enrollment assistance, our experts are here to help! Visit upGrad now and take the next step in your learning journey. 

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