Best Law Schools in Florida

Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Florida 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 Florida 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 Florida.Best Law Schools in Florida

Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Florida

National Ranking Best Law Programs
48 University of Florida (Levin) (Gainesville, FL)
Acceptance rate: 28.9%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 160-164
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.43-3.82
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $18,710 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,075 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 976
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 85.4%

University of Florida School of Law

52 Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
Acceptance rate: 27.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 160-163
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.18-3.68
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $18,343 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $37,905 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 729
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.4%

Florida State University School of Law

72 University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL)
Acceptance rate: 47.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 156-160
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.19-3.57
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $39,848 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 1,290
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 83.5%

University of Miami School of Law

115 Florida International University (Miami, FL)
Acceptance rate: 20.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-157
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.22-3.77
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $16,585 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $30,370 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 369
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.1%

Florida International University School of Law

121 Stetson University (Gulfport, FL)
Acceptance rate: 37.9%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 153-157
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.11-3.57
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $35,466 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 855
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 78.3%

Stetson University School of Law

148 Ave Maria School of Law (Naples, FL)
Acceptance rate: 53.8%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 146-153
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.79-3.48
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $36,448 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 489
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 65.5%

Ave Maria School of Law

149 Barry University (Orlando, FL)
Acceptance rate: 58.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 147-152
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.55-3.26
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $33,630 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 528
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 60.4%

Barry University School of Law

158 Florida A&M University (Orlando, FL)
Acceptance rate: 40.8%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 145-151
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.81-3.34
Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $12,424 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $32,327 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 509
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 55.6%

Florida A&M University School of Law

159 Florida Coastal School of Law (Jacksonville, FL)
Acceptance rate: 66.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 145-151
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.83-3.34
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $36,968 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 1,702
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 79.7%

Florida Coastal School of Law

168 Nova Southeastern University (Broad) (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Acceptance rate: 40.5%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-152
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.98-3.43
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $33,250 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 855
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 79.2%

Nova Southeastern University School of Law

178 St. Thomas University (Miami Gardens, FL)
Acceptance rate: 46.0%
LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-153
GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.66-3.32
Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $34,618 per year
Enrollment (full-time): 719
Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 71.8%

St. Thomas University School of Law

All Law Schools in Florida

Florida is home to several prestigious law schools that offer students a wide variety of legal education programs, from traditional Juris Doctor (J.D.) degrees to specialized Master of Laws (LL.M.) programs. These law schools provide rigorous academic training, real-world legal experience, and strong connections to both local and national legal markets.

1. University of Florida Levin College of Law

Overview

The University of Florida Levin College of Law, located in Gainesville, is widely regarded as one of the top public law schools in the country. Established in 1909, it consistently ranks among the best law schools in Florida and is well-known for its high bar passage rates, large alumni network, and its expertise in tax law, environmental law, and business law.

Degree Programs

The Levin College of Law offers a range of degree programs tailored to different types of legal professionals:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program designed to prepare students for legal practice. It includes clinical programs, externships, and a comprehensive legal curriculum.
  • LL.M. in Taxation: A specialized one-year program for students who want to focus on tax law.
  • LL.M. in International Taxation: Designed for both U.S. and foreign-trained lawyers interested in cross-border tax issues.
  • LL.M. in Environmental and Land Use Law: For students who want to specialize in environmental and land use legal practices.
  • S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-focused doctoral program for those interested in legal academia or advanced legal research.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the University of Florida Levin College of Law is highly competitive, with strong emphasis placed on LSAT scores, undergraduate GPA, and other application components.

  • Average LSAT: 165
  • Average GPA: 3.84

Additional components considered in the admissions process include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their interest in law, career goals, and what they can contribute to the law school community.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications.
  • Resume: Highlighting academic achievements, internships, work experience, and leadership roles.

Starting Salaries

Graduates of the Levin College of Law often secure high-paying jobs, especially in top law firms, corporations, and government agencies.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $105,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $65,000

2. Florida State University College of Law

Overview

The Florida State University College of Law, located in Tallahassee, is one of the top-ranked public law schools in the Southeast. Known for its strong focus on public service, business law, and international law, FSU Law has a prime location near the Florida Capitol, offering students ample opportunities to engage in internships and externships with state agencies and the legislature.

Degree Programs

FSU Law provides several degree programs that prepare students for successful legal careers:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A full-time program that emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical experience. Students can specialize in various areas of law, such as international law, business law, and criminal law.
  • LL.M. in Business Law: Designed for both U.S. and international students who want to specialize in business and corporate law.
  • LL.M. in American Law for Foreign Lawyers: A program that introduces foreign-trained lawyers to the American legal system.
  • J.D./M.B.A.: A joint degree program offered in collaboration with FSU’s College of Business.
  • J.D./M.S. in International Affairs: A dual degree that prepares students for careers in international law and policy.

Admission Requirements

FSU Law has a competitive admissions process that evaluates candidates based on their academic performance, standardized test scores, and personal achievements.

  • Average LSAT: 160
  • Average GPA: 3.68

Other factors that influence admissions include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants must provide a clear explanation of their reasons for pursuing a legal education and how FSU Law fits into their career goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters are required, preferably from academic sources or employers.
  • Resume: Outlining the applicant’s work experience, internships, and community involvement.

Starting Salaries

Graduates of FSU Law enjoy competitive starting salaries, particularly for those working in the private sector or with government agencies in Florida.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $90,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000

3. University of Miami School of Law

Overview

The University of Miami School of Law, located in Coral Gables, is one of Florida’s top private law schools, known for its diverse curriculum, international focus, and strong programs in entertainment law, maritime law, and international arbitration. Established in 1926, it has a strong reputation for producing practice-ready graduates with a global perspective.

Degree Programs

Miami Law offers a wide range of degree programs that cater to different legal interests and career goals:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program, offering concentrations in areas like international law, environmental law, and entertainment law.
  • LL.M. in International Arbitration: A specialized program for students interested in cross-border dispute resolution.
  • LL.M. in Maritime Law: For students who want to focus on legal issues related to the maritime industry.
  • LL.M. in Taxation: Designed for students who want to specialize in tax law.
  • Dual Degree Programs: Miami Law offers several dual degrees, including:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
    • J.D./M.M. (Master of Music Industry)

Admission Requirements

Miami Law has a competitive admissions process, seeking candidates with strong academic backgrounds, leadership skills, and professional potential.

  • Average LSAT: 159
  • Average GPA: 3.45

Other application components include:

  • Personal Statement: Applicants must explain their motivation for pursuing law and their specific interest in Miami Law.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically from academic professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s abilities.
  • Resume: Highlighting leadership roles, work experience, and relevant extracurricular activities.

Starting Salaries

Miami Law graduates have a strong presence in Florida’s legal market and internationally, particularly in areas like entertainment, business, and maritime law.

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

4. Stetson University College of Law

Overview

Stetson University College of Law, located in Gulfport (near St. Petersburg), is the oldest law school in Florida. Founded in 1900, it has a long-standing reputation for excellence in advocacy, legal writing, and elder law. Stetson Law is particularly well-known for its trial advocacy and moot court programs, which consistently rank among the best in the country.

Degree Programs

Stetson Law offers a variety of programs that emphasize experiential learning and professional skills:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A comprehensive three-year program designed to prepare students for general legal practice.
  • LL.M. in Advocacy: A specialized program focusing on trial advocacy and courtroom skills.
  • LL.M. in Elder Law: Designed for students interested in representing elderly clients in areas like estate planning and elder abuse litigation.
  • Dual Degree Programs:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)

Admission Requirements

Admission to Stetson Law is competitive, with the school seeking candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and an interest in advocacy.

  • Average LSAT: 156
  • Average GPA: 3.32

The admissions process also includes:

  • Personal Statement: A narrative that explains the applicant’s interest in law, why they chose Stetson, and their career aspirations.
  • Letters of Recommendation: From individuals who can provide insight into the applicant’s academic and professional qualifications.
  • Resume: Detailing work experience, internships, leadership roles, and community involvement.

Starting Salaries

Stetson Law graduates are well-prepared for careers in litigation, elder law, and criminal justice, with many working in law firms and government agencies.

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

5. Florida International University College of Law (FIU Law)

Overview

FIU Law, located in Miami, is one of Florida’s newer law schools, established in 2000. Despite its relatively young age, it has quickly gained a reputation for excellence, particularly in terms of its high bar passage rates and affordable tuition. FIU Law is known for its diverse student body and strong emphasis on public service and international law.

Degree Programs

FIU Law offers a variety of degree programs aimed at providing students with a solid legal foundation and practical experience:

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that offers specializations in international law, immigration law, and public interest law.
  • LL.M. in U.S. Law: For foreign-trained lawyers who want to gain knowledge of the U.S. legal system and practice in the U.S.
  • Joint Degrees:
    • J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
    • J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health)

Admission Requirements

FIU Law has a competitive admissions process, seeking students with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to public service.

  • Average LSAT: 157
  • Average GPA: 3.53

Other components of the application process include:

  • Personal Statement: Describing the applicant’s background, interest in FIU Law, and career goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation: From professors or employers who can speak to the applicant’s abilities.
  • Resume: Highlighting leadership roles, work experience, and community service.

Starting Salaries

FIU Law graduates have strong job prospects, particularly in South Florida, where they work in law firms, government, and public interest organizations.

  • Median starting salary (private sector): $85,000
  • Median starting salary (public sector): $58,000