Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Delaware 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 Delaware 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 Delaware.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Delaware
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 194 | Widener University (Wilmington, DE) Acceptance rate: 55.2% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 149-153 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.82-3.44 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $1,212 per credit Enrollment (full-time): 975 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 76.6%
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All Law Schools in Delaware
Delaware has a unique position in the legal landscape of the United States due to its corporate-friendly laws, making it the state of choice for many major companies to incorporate. However, Delaware is home to just one accredited law school, Widener University Delaware Law School, which plays a critical role in preparing students for careers in corporate law, litigation, and public service.
1. Widener University Delaware Law School
Overview
Widener University Delaware Law School, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is the only law school in the state. Established in 1971 as part of Widener University, Delaware Law School has built a strong reputation for its focus on corporate and business law, reflecting Delaware’s importance as a hub for corporate law practice in the U.S. The school offers a robust curriculum, combining practical legal training with a solid theoretical foundation. Delaware Law graduates are well-prepared to enter legal careers in corporate law, government service, and private practice.
Degree Programs
Widener University Delaware Law School offers several degree programs designed to meet the diverse needs of aspiring legal professionals:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year law degree program that prepares students to practice law in any jurisdiction.
- Full-time J.D. Program: This is a standard three-year program.
- Part-time J.D. Program: Designed for working professionals, this program allows students to earn their J.D. over four years.
- Master of Laws (LL.M.): A one-year program for students who already hold a J.D. or equivalent degree, allowing for advanced legal specialization. The LL.M. program at Delaware Law offers concentrations in:
- Corporate Law and Finance
- Environmental Law
- International Law
- Master of Jurisprudence (M.Jur.): A program for non-lawyers who want to gain legal knowledge to enhance their careers. The M.Jur. degree is offered with concentrations in:
- Corporate and Business Law
- Health Law
- Regulatory Analysis and Compliance
- Dual Degrees: Delaware Law offers dual-degree options in collaboration with Widener University’s other graduate programs, including:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
Admission Requirements
Admissions to Widener University Delaware Law School are competitive, with the school looking for students who show potential for success in legal practice. The admissions committee evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic performance, LSAT scores, personal experiences, and professional goals.
- Average LSAT: 148
- Average GPA: 3.10
Additional factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants are encouraged to write a personal statement that explains their motivation for studying law, career aspirations, and any challenges or experiences that have influenced their decision to pursue legal education.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically from academic professors or employers who can attest to the applicant’s abilities and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: A detailed resume that highlights work experience, leadership roles, community service, and any relevant extracurricular activities.
Starting Salaries
Widener University Delaware Law School graduates have solid job prospects, particularly in Delaware’s thriving corporate law sector. Many graduates find employment in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and judicial clerkships.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $80,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000
Strengths of Widener University Delaware Law School
Corporate Law Focus
One of the key advantages of attending Widener University Delaware Law School is its proximity to the Delaware courts, including the renowned Delaware Court of Chancery. This court is a leading forum for corporate governance and disputes, making Delaware the state of choice for incorporation by many Fortune 500 companies. As a result, Delaware Law provides students with unique opportunities to engage with corporate law and gain practical experience in this field.
- Corporate Law Institute: Delaware Law’s Corporate Law Institute offers specialized courses, workshops, and networking events that focus on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and securities regulation. Students can gain hands-on experience through externships and internships with law firms and corporations in Wilmington.
Clinical Programs
Widener University Delaware Law School offers several legal clinics where students can gain real-world experience while helping clients who might not otherwise have access to legal representation. These clinics allow students to work on actual cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys.
- Environmental & Natural Resources Law Clinic: This clinic allows students to work on cases involving environmental law, representing clients in matters related to water quality, land use, and environmental protection.
- Veterans Law Clinic: Students assist veterans with legal issues such as benefits claims, discharge upgrades, and other military-related legal matters.
- Family Health Law & Policy Clinic: Focused on health law, this clinic enables students to assist low-income clients with legal matters related to healthcare access, public health policy, and family law.
Externship Opportunities
Delaware Law provides a range of externship opportunities, enabling students to gain practical legal experience while earning academic credit. These externships often take place in corporate law firms, government agencies, and courts, providing students with the opportunity to build professional networks and gain valuable experience in the legal field.
- Judicial Externships: Students can work with judges in Delaware’s federal and state courts, including the Delaware Court of Chancery, giving them firsthand insight into judicial decision-making processes.
- Corporate Externships: Given Delaware’s role as a major corporate hub, students have opportunities to work with leading corporations, gaining experience in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and compliance.
Delaware’s Legal Market
Employment Prospects
Delaware’s legal market is particularly robust in corporate law, thanks to the state’s business-friendly corporate statutes and the Delaware Court of Chancery’s role in resolving corporate disputes. Many major U.S. corporations are incorporated in Delaware, making it a prime location for legal professionals specializing in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and securities law. Law firms in Wilmington and other parts of the state often seek Delaware Law graduates with expertise in these areas.
Bar Passage Rates
Bar passage rates are an important consideration when choosing a law school. Widener University Delaware Law School offers comprehensive bar preparation resources to help students succeed on the bar exam, and the school’s bar passage rate is competitive with national averages.
- Bar Passage Rate: Approximately 75% of Delaware Law graduates pass the bar exam on their first attempt, with many staying in Delaware or pursuing careers in nearby states like Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Widener University Delaware Law School offers a variety of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and loan programs. Tuition rates are relatively affordable compared to private law schools in other states, and many students receive financial aid to help offset the cost of their education.
- Annual Tuition (full-time): Approximately $48,000
- Annual Tuition (part-time): Approximately $35,000
The law school also offers scholarships for students with strong academic backgrounds, leadership potential, and demonstrated financial need. These scholarships can significantly reduce the overall cost of attending law school.
Additional Information for Prospective Students
Career Services
Widener University Delaware Law School offers a dedicated Career Development Office (CDO) that assists students and alumni in finding employment. The CDO provides career counseling, resume reviews, mock interviews, and access to job listings. Additionally, the CDO helps students connect with potential employers through networking events, job fairs, and on-campus recruitment programs.
- Networking Opportunities: Delaware Law’s location in Wilmington provides students with access to a wide range of legal professionals, including judges, attorneys, and corporate executives. The school regularly hosts networking events, career panels, and workshops to help students build their professional networks.
Student Life and Organizations
Delaware Law offers a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations and extracurricular activities that allow students to engage with the legal community, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships.
- Student Bar Association (SBA): The SBA is the governing body for students at Delaware Law, organizing events, fundraisers, and social activities.
- Moot Court Honor Society: This society offers students opportunities to participate in moot court competitions, where they can hone their advocacy skills by arguing cases before simulated appellate courts.
- Law Review: Delaware Law Review is a student-edited journal that publishes scholarly articles on a range of legal topics. Participation in Law Review is a prestigious honor and provides students with valuable research and writing experience.