Pre-Law Reading List: What to Read Before Law School

So, you’ve decided to enter law law school—congrats! 

Before you dive headfirst into the whirlwind of codals, case digests, and recitations, it’s a smart move to prep yourself with some essential reading. I believe that it’s extremely important to warm up and prepare yourself before entering law school, which is, in itself, difficult to begin with. Nonetheless, these books will help you get familiar with legal concepts, the structure of law school, and the mindset you’ll need to thrive therein!

As a law student myself, trust me when I tell you that as an aspiring law student, you don’t have to read all of the books contained in this list. But, as I have already mentioned, it’s always a good idea to prepare. Thus, this list contains book and material recommendations for law school, specifically on topics regarding:

1. Before starting law school;

2. Understanding law school experience;

3. Learning legal reasoning; and

4. The legal profession as a whole.

Must-Read Books Before Starting Law School

1. Introduction to Law by Rolando Suarez

This book is a staple for many aspiring law students. It breaks down fundamental legal concepts and terms you’ll encounter in your first year. From Ethics to Criminal Law, Suarez provides a concise overview that’s perfect for beginners.

2. Essentials of Legal Writing by Justice Roberto Abad

Legal writing is a crucial skill in law school—it’s way different from your usual way of writing considering the legal jargons. Latin maxims, and other law-specific words and phrases you will encounter both in law school and in future actual practice. Nonetheless, Justice Abad’s book offers practical tips on structuring arguments, writing essays, and answering legal questions effectively. It’s a great resource to start honing your writing skills early on.

3. Getting to Maybe: How to Excel on Law School Exams by Richard Michael Fischl and Jeremy Paul

Law school exams can be tricky, often with no clear right answer. This book teaches you how to approach such exams, emphasizing the importance of legal analysis and reasoning. It’s a must-read to understand the exam mindset. Note that while the Philippine and US legal systems differ, the tips and tricks as stated in this material are still applicable in the Philippine context.

Understanding the Law School Experience

4. 1L of a Ride by Andrew J. McClurg

This book provides a comprehensive look into the first year of law school. McClurg shares insights on case briefing, managing workload, and dealing with the emotional challenges of law school. It’s like having a mentor guide you through your 1L year. Again, even if this is a material based on US law, the tips and tricks as stated in this material are still applicable with respect to our legal landscape.

5. Law School Confidential by Robert H. Miller

Miller offers a detailed account of what to expect in law school, from preparing for classes to navigating internships. It’s a practical guide that covers the entire law school journey .

Building Legal Mindset and Reasoning

6. The Legal Analyst by Ward Farnsworth

To think like a lawyer, you need to understand how to analyze legal problems. Farnsworth’s book introduces various tools and concepts that lawyers use in their reasoning. It’s a great primer for developing a legal mindset.

7. Deconstructing Legal Analysis: A 1L Primer by Peter T. Wendel

Wendel breaks down the process of legal analysis, helping you understand how to approach cases and legal problems methodically. It’s especially useful for those new to legal studies.

Exploring the Legal Profession

8. 24 Hours with 24 Lawyers by Jasper Kim

Curious about the daily lives of different lawyers? Kim’s book profiles 24 lawyers across various fields, providing insights into their routines and responsibilities. It’s an eye-opener for those considering different legal career paths.

9. Legal Profession by Villareal

This book offers an overview of the legal profession in the Philippines, covering topics like ethics, responsibilities, and the role of lawyers in society. It’s a recommended read for understanding the local legal landscape .

Additional Tips for Incoming Law Students

• Work-Life Balance: Get rid of the idea that once you enter law school, you won’t have time for anything else. Make sure to observe a healthy work-life balance, maintain your relationships, prioritize family, and spend time with yourself and/ or friends. 

• Start with Codals: Codals are often dubbed as your “bibles” in law school. It’s good to familiarize yourself with the basic laws early on, such as the 1987 Constitution, the New Civil Code and the Revised Penal Code—among others. Reading the codals helps you get used to legal language and structure. (Reddit)

• Full Text and Case Digest Databases: Case digests will help you a lot throughout law school. However, there are already hundreds of online case and case digest repositories. Having hundreds of available resources may give you a harder time finding a good case digest or a particular case in time for your exam or recitation. Make sure to find one that is tried-and-tested and  must read books by law students and practitioners as well.

• Stay Updated: Reading news articles and staying informed about current events can help you understand the practical application of laws. (Reddit)

• Join Online Communities: Engage with fellow law students and professionals through forums like Reddit’s r/LawStudentsPH. These communities offer valuable advice, book recommendations, and support. (Reddit)

Conclusion

As I’ve already stated earlier, preparation for law school doesn’t mean you have to read every legal book out there. Start with these recommended readings to build a solid foundation. Before and throughout your time in law school, you will often come across the saying “law school is a marathon, not a sprint”—and I can attest to that! So, pace yourself, stay curious, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance when needed.

Good luck on your journey to becoming a lawyer!