Best path for studying law in the US?

I want to eventually study law and practice in the US, but I'm not sure what steps I should be taking now in high school to prepare for this path. What should I focus on in terms of courses, activities, or tests?

Your interest in pursuing a career in law is commendable!

First, remember that U.S. law schools typically require a bachelor's degree for admission, meaning you would first complete an undergraduate degree before moving on to law school. This undergraduate degree can be in any subject, but certain areas such as Political Science, English, History, and Philosophy can be particularly useful due to their focus on reading, writing and critical thinking skills that are essential for law school.

While still in high school, it would be beneficial to start honing these skills. Taking advanced level English, History, and government-related classes can provide a good foundation. Additionally, participating in activities that enhance your public speaking, like debate club or Model United Nations, could also be beneficial. Experiences such as these can support the development of analytical thinking and argumentation skills, which are incredibly useful in law.

Additionally, maintaining a strong GPA and aiming for high scores on your SAT or ACT tests is critical. Both these factors are major considerations for university admissions.

Once in college, getting involved in pre-law societies or other related clubs can be a good way to learn more about the law profession, network with others who share your interest, and gain exposure to different areas of law. Internships or part-time jobs at law firms or other law-related entities can provide practical exposure to the legal field.

Finally, towards the end of your undergraduate program, you'll need to prepare for and take the LSAT, a standardized test required for admission into the majority of U.S law schools. This test assesses reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and writing - skills that are crucial for success in law school.

Remember, the road to becoming a legal practitioner is a marathon, not a sprint. It's imperative to be patient and persistent. Best of luck!