If you have completed 12th Arts and are interested in pursuing a career in law, there are structured paths that allow you to become a lawyer, legal advisor, or legal professional. Here’s a complete guide for students planning their legal career.

Step 1: Choose the Right Law Course

After 12th Arts, you can pursue integrated undergraduate law courses:

BA LLB (Bachelor of Arts + Bachelor of Laws) – 5 years

Combines arts subjects with law education.

Covers constitutional law, criminal law, corporate law, and human rights.

Other Integrated Courses:

BBA LLB – Combines management with law

BSc LLB – Science with law (less common for Arts students, but possible in some colleges)

Eligibility: Minimum 50% marks in 12th class from a recognized board (varies by college).

Step 2: Appear for Law Entrance Exams

Admission to top law colleges in india is generally through entrance exams:

  • CLAT (Common Law Admission Test): For 22 National Law Universities (NLUs)
  • AILET (All india Law Entrance Test): For National Law University, Delhi
  • LSAT India: Accepted by multiple private law colleges
  • State-Level Law Exams: Like TS LAWCET, MH CET Law, etc.

Tip: Prepare for English, Logical Reasoning, General Knowledge, and Legal Awareness for entrance exams.

Step 3: Complete Your Law Degree

  • Duration: 5 years for integrated courses
  • Curriculum includes:
    • Law subjects: criminal law, Constitutional law, corporate law, Cyber law
    • Skills training: Moot court, internships, negotiation, legal drafting
    • Optional subjects: Environmental law, Taxation, Intellectual Property Law

Tip: Participate in moot court competitions, internships, and debates to gain practical experience.

Step 4: Enroll with the Bar Council

After completing your law degree:

Register with the State Bar Council

Appear for the All india Bar Examination (AIBE)

After passing AIBE, you receive a “Certificate of Practice” allowing you to practice law in India

Step 5: Career Opportunities in Law

Once you become a lawyer, multiple career options are available:

Litigation Lawyer: Represent clients in civil or criminal cases

Corporate Lawyer: Work with companies on contracts, compliance, mergers, and acquisitions

Legal Advisor: Provide consultancy in NGOs, banks, or government organizations

Judicial Services: Appear for Judicial service exams to become a judge

Academia & Research: Teach law or conduct research in universities

Alternative Careers: Legal journalism, policy making, or compliance officer roles

Tips for success in Law Career

  • Start Early: Focus on developing communication, analytical, and reasoning skills from 12th grade.
  • Stay Updated: read current affairs, landmark judgments, and legal developments.
  • Internships Matter: Gain exposure to law firms, courts, and NGOs during studies.
  • Networking: Join legal societies, bar associations, and online law forums.

Conclusion

A law career after 12th Arts is highly rewarding and offers multiple pathways in litigation, corporate law, judiciary, and advisory roles. By choosing the right course, preparing for entrance exams, and gaining practical experience, you can become a successful lawyer and build a strong professional future.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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Kokila Chokkanathan

17/02/2026 11:48 AM