Best Law Schools in Georgia

Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Georgia that provides Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). You can use the following list to pick a school that fits your needs. These law schools in Georgia are ranked based on the student reviews, alumni surveys, assessment of peer institutions, and official data reported by each law college. In addition, we also provide average LSAT scores, GPA and acceptance rates for each of these law schools in Georgia.

Best Law Schools in Georgia

Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Georgia

National Ranking Best Law Programs
24 Emory University (Atlanta, GA)
Acceptance rate: 32.6%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 159-166
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.4-3.79
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $45,098 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 810
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.9%

Emory University School of Law

34 University of Georgia (Athens, GA)
Acceptance rate: 25.1%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 162-166
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.3-3.76
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $17,624 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $34,732 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 691
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 93.2%

University of Georgia School of Law

58 Georgia State University (Atlanta, GA)
Acceptance rate: 16.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 159-162
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.21-3.75
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $14,770 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $34,834 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 466
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 88.4%

Georgia State University School of Law

111 Mercer University (George) (Macon, GA)
Acceptance rate: 44.2%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-158
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.07-3.66
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $36,860 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 451
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 82.9%

Mercer University School of Law

147 Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (Atlanta, GA)
Acceptance rate: 48.7%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-152
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.52-3.16
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $1,128 per credit
Enrollment (full-time): 528
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.6%

Atlanta's John Marshall Law School

All Law Schools in Georgia

Georgia is home to a number of well-regarded law schools that offer diverse programs for students aspiring to enter the legal profession. These schools are known for their academic rigor, experiential learning opportunities, and strong connections to local, regional, and national legal markets. From the bustling legal scene in Atlanta to other parts of the state, law students in Georgia have access to a wide range of professional opportunities.

1. University of Georgia School of Law

Overview

The University of Georgia School of Law (UGA Law), located in Athens, is one of the most prestigious public law schools in the Southeast. Established in 1859, it has a strong reputation for academic excellence, high bar passage rates, and a commitment to public service. UGA Law is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the United States and is known for producing graduates who go on to become leaders in both private practice and public service.

Degree Programs

UGA Law offers several degree programs designed to meet the diverse needs of its student body:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that provides students with a solid foundation in legal theory and practice. UGA Law offers various specializations, including criminal law, business law, and international law.
  • Master of Laws (LL.M.): A one-year program for foreign-trained lawyers or those seeking to specialize in a particular area of law.
  • Master in the Study of Law (M.S.L.): A degree designed for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge to enhance their careers in fields like business, government, and public administration.
  • Dual Degrees:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
    • J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work)

Admission Requirements

Admission to UGA Law is highly competitive, and the admissions committee looks for students with strong academic credentials, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.

  • Average LSAT: 165
  • Average GPA: 3.80

Other factors considered in the admissions process include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a personal statement that outlines their interest in law, career goals, and why they believe UGA Law is the right fit for them.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from academic or professional mentors who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications.
  • Resume: Detailing work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.

Starting Salaries

Graduates of UGA Law enjoy strong job prospects, particularly in the Southeast. Many go on to work for top law firms, government agencies, and corporations.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $100,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000

2. Emory University School of Law

Overview

Emory University School of Law, located in Atlanta, is one of the top private law schools in the country. Founded in 1916, Emory Law is known for its intellectual rigor, diverse student body, and strong emphasis on experiential learning. The school offers extensive opportunities for students to engage in practical legal training, and its location in Atlanta gives students access to a wide range of professional opportunities in law firms, courts, and corporations.

Degree Programs

Emory Law offers a variety of degree programs for students with different career goals:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A full-time three-year program that emphasizes both academic and practical skills. Emory Law offers concentrations in areas like business law, health law, and public interest law.
  • LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year degree for students who want to specialize in areas such as human rights law, public law, or corporate law.
  • S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-focused doctoral program for students pursuing academic or high-level policy careers.
  • J.M. (Juris Master): A program for non-lawyers who want to gain a foundational understanding of the law in areas such as health care, business, and compliance.
  • Joint Degrees:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.T.S. (Master of Theological Studies)
    • J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)

Admission Requirements

Admission to Emory Law is competitive, and the admissions committee evaluates applicants on a variety of factors, including academic performance, leadership, and professional experience.

  • Average LSAT: 165
  • Average GPA: 3.75

Other components of the application include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement discussing their career aspirations, interest in Emory Law, and how they plan to use their legal education.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Generally required from professors or employers who are familiar with the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in law school.
  • Resume: Highlighting relevant work experience, leadership positions, and volunteer activities.

Starting Salaries

Emory Law graduates are highly sought after by top law firms, corporations, and government agencies, particularly in Atlanta and other major legal markets.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $180,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $65,000

3. Georgia State University College of Law

Overview

Georgia State University College of Law, located in downtown Atlanta, is a public law school known for its affordable tuition, strong clinical programs, and commitment to public interest law. Established in 1982, GSU Law offers students a wide range of experiential learning opportunities, including externships, clinics, and internships with courts, law firms, and government agencies. GSU Law has a strong reputation for producing practice-ready graduates who excel in various legal fields.

Degree Programs

GSU Law offers several degree programs that cater to both full-time students and working professionals:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year full-time program with a part-time option for students who wish to work while earning their degree. GSU Law offers concentrations in areas such as health law, intellectual property law, and public interest law.
  • LL.M. (Master of Laws): A program for international and U.S. lawyers seeking specialized legal training in health law, intellectual property, and more.
  • M.S.L. (Master of Studies in Law): A degree for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge in specific fields like health law or business law.
  • Dual Degrees:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)
    • J.D./M.C.R.P. (Master of City and Regional Planning)

Admission Requirements

GSU Law is known for its affordability and accessibility, but admission is still competitive. The school looks for applicants with strong academic records and a commitment to public service.

  • Average LSAT: 158
  • Average GPA: 3.50

Additional admission factors include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants should explain their interest in law, career goals, and why GSU Law is the best fit for their educational and professional aspirations.
  • Letters of Recommendation: These letters should come from individuals who can provide insight into the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in law school.
  • Resume: Outlining relevant work experience, leadership roles, and community involvement.

Starting Salaries

Graduates of GSU Law often find employment in Atlanta’s thriving legal market, working in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $80,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000

4. Mercer University School of Law

Overview

Mercer University School of Law, located in Macon, is a private law school known for its strong emphasis on ethics, professionalism, and legal writing. Established in 1873, it is one of the oldest law schools in the South. Mercer Law is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, close-knit community, and strong focus on preparing students for careers in litigation, public service, and business law.

Degree Programs

Mercer Law offers a range of programs that provide students with a solid legal foundation and practical skills:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program designed to prepare students for a variety of legal careers. Mercer Law offers specializations in legal writing, business law, and criminal law.
  • LL.M. in Federal Criminal Practice and Procedure: A specialized one-year program focusing on the federal criminal justice system.
  • Joint Degree Programs:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)

Admission Requirements

Admission to Mercer Law is selective, with the admissions committee seeking students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to ethical legal practice.

  • Average LSAT: 153
  • Average GPA: 3.40

Other factors considered in the admissions process include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement that explains their interest in law, career goals, and why Mercer Law is the right choice for their legal education.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s abilities and potential.
  • Resume: Highlighting work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.

Starting Salaries

Mercer Law graduates are well-prepared for legal careers in a variety of settings, including private practice, public interest law, and government service.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $70,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $50,000

5. Savannah Law School (Closed)

Overview

Savannah Law School, a branch of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, opened in 2012 in Savannah, Georgia. It was a small, private law school with a focus on serving non-traditional students. However, due to financial difficulties, the school ceased operations in 2018. During its operation, it provided flexible part-time and full-time programs for students in the Savannah area.