It is absolutely imperative that law schools and programs be accredited. Most states do not allow graduates from unaccredited law schools to take the bar exam. Since passing the bar exam is required for one to practice of law in most states, a degree from an unaccredited law school is virtually useless. Accreditation reassures the student that they're receiving a reliable education of quality that will be useful in their practice of law.
The American Bar Association (ABA) is the largest accrediting body for law education. ABA accreditation means that the law program met the standards the established by the ABA. Most states have concluded that graduates of ABA-approved schools are fit to take the bar exam. However, states often have their own accreditation process and usually accredited ABA-approved schools. While some institutions may not meet all of the ABA's requirements, they may meet the states requirements, which vary from one state to another.
There are six regional accrediting bodies that can accredit law programs as well:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
- Middle State Association of Colleges and Schools
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Other resources related to law program accreditation include:
- California Bar Association
- Association of American Law Schools
- American Council of Learned Societies
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