A joint study by US non-profit organisations, the Pennsylvania-based Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and Illinois’ Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession (IILP), profiles the backgrounds, motivations, and career aspirations of today’s law students. The findings reveal that the 2024 first-year cohort is the most diverse yet, with 41.8% from racial or ethnic minority groups, 23% first-generation college graduates, 56% women, and 14.8% identifying as LGBTQ+.
Students cited a range of motivations for pursuing a legal career, with financial security (24%), helping others (21%), and advocating for social justice (14%) ranking highest. Career choices are increasingly shaped by post-graduation outcomes, including employment rates, bar passage rates, and salary prospects. While private practice remains the most anticipated career destination (56%), significant interest also exists in government, public interest, and other sectors.
The study highlights how law school experiences—such as exposure to diverse perspectives, development of ethical values, and opportunities to solve real-world problems—play a pivotal role in shaping students’ professional outlooks. However, it also reflects growing scepticism about whether the legal profession is prepared to deliver on its promises of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Students are questioning the extent to which employers genuinely integrate DEI principles into their daily operations, how equity is maintained in practice, and whether opportunities for meaningful work will be equitably available.
The report calls on law schools, recruiters, and employers to engage with students in an honest and informed manner, avoiding superficial messaging. By fostering inclusive pathways, aligning with students’ values, and addressing their concerns transparently, the legal profession can better recruit, develop, and retain the next generation of legal talent.