The legal world is seeing constant evolution, driven by technological advancements and an increasing need for efficient processes for these advancements. Central to this transformation is the field of legal operations. For those seeking to understand the structural changes or who are curious about the emerging career avenues, let’s explore some of the exciting legal operations jobs tailored for the future.
What is Legal Operations?
Legal operations is the link between law, business, and technology. It’s a multifaceted field focusing on optimizing the efficiency of legal departments and services. By blending business knowledge and legal expertise, professionals in this field ensure that law firms and corporate legal departments remain adaptive and agile in a swiftly changing business landscape.
Director of Legal Operations
The director of Legal Operations guides the strategic direction of a legal department or law firm’s operational teams. Their expertise is essential in conceptualizing and initiating strategies aimed at optimizing internal legal processes. They stay up to date on all things regarding modernization, integrating cutting-edge technologies to increase efficiency levels.
Moreover, their role extends to budgeting, financial reporting, and the intricate management of legal vendors. By collaborating with various departments, such as information technology and human resources, they ensure a seamless and integrated operational flow within the legal framework.
Director of Legal Operations Salary:
According to Glassdoor, the average director of legal operations salary in the U.S. is around $148,000 a year with an annual salary range typically falling between $113,000 and $194,000.*
*Data gathered in 2023.
Legal Project Manager
The role of a legal project manager is important to the successful completion of legal project management tasks. Their expertise ensures that every undertaking is completed on time and without overspending the allocated budget or compromising the project’s integrity. They are responsible for meticulously planning, defining, and outlining the project scope, while setting clear benchmarks in terms of deadlines and responsibilities. They collaborate to ensure harmonious coordination with both internal resources and third-party vendors, while ensuring quality standards and timely deliverables.
Legal Project Manager Salary:
The average legal project manager’s salary in the U.S. is around $116,000 annually with the majority of the salaries ranging between $76,000 and $142,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.*
*Data gathered in 2023.
Legal Operations Architect
Serving as the technological backbone of the legal domain, the legal operations architect, also referred to as a legal solutions architect, is instrumental in offering innovative solutions that drive operational success. They begin by dissecting existing systems and pinpointing gaps and areas for enhancement. They’re also responsible for designing transformative technological tools that benefit legal operations.
But their role doesn’t stop at blueprinting; they actively implement these solutions, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems. Their technical knowledge helps to propel the legal team forward.
Legal Operations Architect Salary:
Talent.com reports an average annual salary in the U.S. of around $146,000 and a normal salary range between $126,000 and $181,000 a year.*
*Data gathered in 2023.
Legal HR Specialist
Specialists with legal HR jobs function as the human-centric pillars of the legal sector, dedicated to overseeing human capital within a legal setting. Their responsibility encompasses the entire talent life cycle, from strategic acquisition and recruiting strategies to fostering retention. They stay on the pulse of an organization, quickly addressing employee concerns and facilitating conflict resolution.
Additionally, they create and implement progressive training and developmental programs, ensuring employees are continuously upskilled. Legal HR jobs must align with the strict regulations and unique standards of the legal industry.
Legal HR Specialist Salary:
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary in the U.S. for a legal HR specialist can be around $64,000 with a normal salary range between $55,000 and $70,000 a year.*
*Data gathered in 2023.
Paving Your Path in Legal Operations Careers
Legal operations jobs are at the forefront of the legal services industry. These roles bridge traditional legal insights with elements of technology, management, and strategic foresight. They represent opportunities that are as rewarding as they are groundbreaking.
If you want to be on the cutting edge of legal developments, explore The Colleges of Law’s Master of Arts in Law program. This program is designed to give you the competencies required to flourish in specialized professional roles that intersect with the legal field. We offer comprehensive courses such as Emerging Technology and the Law and Project Management to prepare you for the ever-changing field of law.
Start your path into the future of legal operations. With The Colleges of Law’s Master of Arts in Law program, you’re not just gaining a degree; you’re unlocking doors to the legal field. Whether you envision yourself as a director of legal operations, see the future as a legal project manager, or are simply interested in the range of possibilities in legal operations, this program is your key to a successful career.
Over the next several months of Legal Currents and Futures posts, The Colleges of Law faculty and students are sharing a series of thought pieces about artificial intelligence and the law. Massimo Genovese penned this introduction to the series.
Artificial intelligence (AI) ignites human imagination, from academia to critically acclaimed entertainment, including Isac Asimov’s novels or films such as “Blade Runner.” This publication and the symposium hosted by the Santa Barbara County Bar Association and The Colleges of Law ground AI discussions in law today. The motivation to address AI issues has been accelerated by the recent surge with notable breakthroughs in generative AI, like Open AI’s ChatGPT.1The surge has caused numerous novel concerns to erupt across legal fields.[1] With the ubiquity of AI across homes and businesses, we must face new imperatives by adding AI to both the practice and the business of law.[1]
Written broadly, this introductory article creates a foundation of AI knowledge upon which the following articles in this series rest. Initial topics include definitions and characterizations of AI, a discussion of current applications across the globe, future technological implications, and ethical, legal, and practical dilemmas. Ultimately, this introduction aims to help orient readers for the articles that follow and future reading. To showcase the breadth of scholarship in the field, concepts might conflict or be presented as multifaceted to better reflect diverse opinions and the community of authors who have contributed to this collection.
Definitions: What is Artificial Intelligence?
For much the same reason that judges interpret and define abstract concepts and provide precedent for common legal understanding, AI must be demystified for legal utility, clarity, and predictability. Fortunately, the legal community does not face this task alone. The demystification of AI invigorates philosophers, sociologists, computer scientists, and popular culture. Across disciplines, artificial intelligence represents provocative concepts that elude a universally agreed-upon definition or characterization. Artificial intelligence sometimes refers to a singular product or entity, such as ChatGPT. However, it can also describe a goal-driven field of study, typically in computer science or philosophy, which aims to build or understand a particular type of system. A meaningful portion of the literature places AI within a quartet of categories, providing a starting point for further investigation. This quartet is as follows: systems that think like humans, systems that act like humans, systems that think rationally, or systems that act rationally.[2] The law may require multiple definitions based on the AI’s functions or form of computation.[1] Fully exploring the range of AI definitions exceeds the scope of this article; instead, providing a basic definition will foster mutual understanding and create a basis for future understanding.[3] In the pursuit of a utilitarian definition of AI for the purpose of this article, we turn to law professor Harry Surden, who has demystified the term and provided utility for lawyers. He describes AI asany technology automating a task typically requiring human intelligence.[4] Professor Surden’s definition fits somewhere in the quartet; more importantly, it can be used to address policy issues and avoid meaningful but speculative futuristic discussion.[4] This definition forms a foundation for the collection of articles in this issue.
Categorization: AGI, Top-Down, Bottom-Up, & LLM’s
Even the most impressive AI applications, capable of producing lawyer-like results, lack computation comparable to or exceeding lawyer-like intelligence.[4] The awe-inspiring artificial general intelligence, which equals or transcends human capacity, seen in many films, does not currently exist. Without a “true” artificial general intelligence, we turn to the bifurcation of existing systems. Current classifications describe two central paradigms—top-down (rules-driven AI) and bottom-up (data-driven AI). This is a helpful initial dichotomy, further complicated by the existence of hybrid systems and large language models.
Roughly speaking, a top-down program takes relevant rules from an expert domain (tax codes, statutes, etc.) and inputs the computational equivalents into a machine. Top-down systems use representations and logic, often if/then/else structures; their output can be precise and representative of binary logic. In essence, top-down machines require machine-readable information. A good example of machine-readable information is eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL), a structured, machine-readable standard used to report business operations to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.[5] The top-down model’s efficacy depends on unambiguous, clear rules, the user’s competence, and the initial programmer’s understanding of the law. While these systems have limited uses, their deductive capabilities make them noteworthy, allowing them to accomplish tasks that are either too time consuming or too complex for a human expert.[6] Personal income tax provides an excellent example of the utility of an expert top-down system since specific tax laws are axiomatically clear, making computational equivalents possible. A familiar and successful top-down example comes from Intuit’s TurboTax software, an expert top-down AI system. To put the system’s success into perspective, Intuit, with the expert knowledge of attorneys, accountants, engineers, etc., was able to train a top-down AI so accurately that 60 million Americans use it, and the IRS often defaults to the model’s judgment.[7]
Top-down systems have significant limitations: their deductively closed loops mean they struggle or cannot independently adapt to novel scenarios. On the other hand, bottom-up (data-driven) systems are flexible and come in various forms, with the most notable example found under the umbrella term of machine learning. Machine learning encompasses a family of techniques (neural nets, Bayes classifier, etc.), best thought of as a sub-category of AI. Various terms in this space, such as “neural” or “learning,” employ typical descriptors of the human mind, which serve as helpful metaphors for computational concepts.4These metaphors refer to the system’s use of algorithms to recognize patterns, act independently, and potentially make better future decisions. Bottom-up (data-driven) systems are the most significant major AI systems impacting society today.[4] Many bottom-up examples exist, such as Google’s spam filters, Tesla’s self-driving cars, and PayPal’s fraud detection systems. The machine learning system at PayPal detects fraud in microseconds by comparing patterns and applying linear and nonlinear algorithms to make a final assessment. This beats industry standards, keeping lost revenue under a third of 1%.[8]
Another significant and popularly successful technology is generative AI, specifically large language models like Bard or Chat GPT. Large language models are a recent development in AI technology, and their proliferation and utility cannot be attributed to mere “hype.” Large language models can change the nature of work previously only produced by humans.[1] A key feature of large language models is that they can create new content at incredible speeds, including more than just text.[1] Large language model capabilities include creating executable machine code, audio, images, text, 3D objects, simulations, and videos.[1] Large language models like Chat-GPT operate partly via billions of values defining connections between “neurons,” called weights, and partly via analyzing vast amounts of unstructured data.[1] Neurons act as small mathematical functions that process information and transmit it to another layer. Weights are the numerical values assigned to connections between those neurons, and they determine the relative strength of the signal that should be passing from neuron to neuron—allowing the model to learn patterns in the data it processes. Adjusting these weights during training enables the large language model to optimize its ability to generate meaningful and contextually accurate responses. Large language models have affected the legal marketplace, and upcoming legal tech companies like Spellbook advertise that their legal programs are trained using ChatGPT. Large firms have already adopted GPT-4 programs, like Allen & Overy’s Harvey, trained on legal data and specialized in legal work.[1] Large language models’ effects are only increasing; whether it’s law, art, or other business, the legal community will be forced to continue interacting with them.
In all categories, these programs struggle or fail with critical lawyerly skills involving abstract concepts or functions such as intuition, normativity, creativity, etc.[4] The efficacy of many of these systems depends on large amounts of high-quality data organized in a way that a machine can read within the legal field; such freely available and nonproprietary data is comparatively scarce.[4] Even with quality data, many areas of law are outside the purview of current AI. Partly because so many legal issues remain grey or fact-contingent, with the quintessential catchphrase of legality being “it depends.”
Consumer Products: Law Firms of the Future?
AI’s influence in the U.S. legal sector is evident in applications too numerous to list here. Westlaw and Lexis have acquired AI companies, such as Case Text and Lex Machina, but startups exist and are emerging, such as Spellbook, Lawgeex, and Disco. Some law firms leverage AI for e-discovery, contract review and analysis, internal metrics, key performance indicators, research and compliance, and beyond foundational tasks, predictive analytics to develop a litigation strategy.[9] Future research on the efficiency of AI products and their impact is paramount to ensure ethical development, optimize resource allocation, drive innovation, understand societal consequences, enhance safety and security measures, inform policymaking, and improve overall user experience.
Global Perspectives: From Word to Artificial Adjudication
Imagine legal AI on a spectrum, from those that elicit little to no policy concerns to those that generate substantial and compelling policy concerns. In that case, we might end up with consumer AI technologies like Grammarly or Microsoft Word on the most mundane side and, on the other, the algorithmic adjudication schemes such as those deployed in the Internet Courts of China.[10] Based on a complex history, Chinese courts have tried integrating AI and governance to improve their ability to defuse social conflict, monitor society, increase oversight, reduce malfeasance, and boost efficiency and consistency.9 Public interest focuses on their purported autonomous “robot” judges, but the major pilot systems are AI clerical assistive and recommendation systems.[11] Nevertheless, there are indeed artificial adjudicators, such as a named system called Xiao Zhi, which has helped adjudicate matters like a dispute over private lending in the Hangzhou region.10 Xia Zhi assisted a human judge in concluding that dispute in 30 minutes. It deploys argument summarizations, evidence evaluation, and award recommendations.10. It is pertinent to note that these systems are all under close human supervision, require human approval, and the stance of China’s current chief justice is that AI can only ever serve as an assistant, never entirely replacing a human judge.10
To some, it might seem like Chinese “robot judges” are a distant, immaterial edge case left best to the gaze of comparative-court watchers, but this is not true. Nation states are competing, and AI technologies related to adjudication and other public policy exist across many countries, such as Estonia’s small claims AI judge or “robot mediators” in Canada and the U.K.[12] Large companies like Tyler Technologies and courtroom adjudicatory technologies, like COMPAS, also exist in the U.S.
Artificial Adjudication: The United States of America
Artificial adjudication processes exist in various parts of the U.S. Michigan deployed a $46 million adjudication platform called MiDAS, which decided whether someone’s application for unemployment benefits was fraudulent.[13] The system’s faultiness caused Deloitte to take on the task of replacing it with a system called UFacts, and the Supreme Court of Michigan ruled that workers falsely accused can sue Michigan for violating their constitutional rights.[12] American courts and corrections departments utilize several risk assessment algorithms, including the Correctional Offender Management Profiling for Alternative Sanctions (COMPAS). COMPAS is a proprietary enigma, also known as a black box, but the output clearly informs decisions about bail, sentencing, and parole.[14] It has been reported that COMPAS partly works by answering a 137-item questionnaire to give judges a risk score on a scale of 1-10.[15] Controversies exist, such as a 2016 report from ProPublica, which analyzed more than 7,000 cases purporting racial bias in the COMPAS output, garnering attention from both advocates and detractors of the system.14Both academics and Equivant, the maker of the COMPAS system, have offered counter evidence..14This includes arguments about needs assessments versus risk assessment and counter research, finding the system meets the .70 AUC standard.14Some studies show algorithms in the justice system have a positive effect, but the opposite could have easily been found, raising issues like transparency and constitutional due process.14
Conclusion: Future Topics
Exploring the use of artificial intelligence within the law reveals a diverse landscape, ranging from top-down expert systems to data-driven machine learning and culminating in advanced generative AI models like ChatGPT. AI affects the legal field already, encompassing areas such as contract review for a solo practitioner or algorithmic adjudication by the government. This article and those that follow are a brief initial survey of a limited selection of AI related subjects. Subsequent inquiries may delve into pivotal topics such as the economic implications and the evolving landscape of legal professions, safety considerations, including the alignment problem and AI regulation, and a more thorough examination of consumer applications. Given the ongoing evolution in AI within the legal field, professionals must constantly refresh their knowledge to adapt, ensuring their expertise remains current and applicable. Research, debate, and dialogue will be essential to navigating the intersection of AI and law and shaping a responsible and realistic future for the legal profession and society.
[3] Khani, Ali H. “The Indeterminacy of Translation and Radical Interpretation.” The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 10 Mar. 2021, iep.utm.edu/indeterm/#:~:text=The%20indeterminacy%20of%20translation%20is,translation%20is%20the%20right%20one. Accessed 15 Sept. 2023.
[4] Surden, Harry, Artificial Intelligence and Law: An Overview (June 28, 2019). Georgia State University Law Review, Vol. 35, 2019, U of Colorado Law Legal Studies Research Paper No. 19-22, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3411869
[5] XBRL US welcomes enactment of the Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA). XBRL US. (2022, December 26). https://xbrl.us/news/xbrlus-welcomes-fdta/
[8] “Paypal Vs. Fraud – Have No Fear, Machine Learning Is Here !” Harvard.Edu, 11 Nov. 2018, d3.harvard.edu/platform-rctom/submission/paypal-vs-fraud-have-no-fear-machine-learning-is-here/#. Accessed 15 Sept. 2023.
[9]Using Artificial Intelligence in Law Departments, Practical Law Practice Note w-012-7887
[10] Stern, Rachel E. and Liebman, Benjamin L. and Roberts, Margaret E. and Wang, Alice, Automating Fairness? Artificial Intelligence in the Chinese Courts (August 1, 2021). Columbia Journal of Transnational Law, No. 59, 2021, Columbia Public Law Research Paper , Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4026798
[11]Wang N, Tian MY. “Intelligent Justice”: human-centered considerations in China’s legal AI transformation. AI Ethics. 2023;3(2):349-354. doi: 10.1007/s43681-022-00202-3. Epub 2022 Aug 23. PMID: 36032775; PMCID: PMC9396564.
[13]Angwin, Julia Angwin. “The Seven-Year Struggle to Hold an Out-of-Control Algorithm to Account.” Themarkup.Org, 8 Oct. 2022, themarkup.org/newsletter/hello-world/the-seven-year-struggle-to-hold-an-out-of-control-algorithm-to-account. Accessed 15 Sept. 2023.
[14] Tashea, Jason . “Courts Are Using AI to Sentence Criminals. That Must Stop Now.” Wired.Com, 17 Apr. 2017, www.wired.com/2017/04/courts-using-ai-sentence-criminals-must-stop-now. Accessed 15 Sept. 2023.
[15] Yong, Ed. “A Popular Algorithm Is No Better at Predicting Crimes Than Random People.” TheAtlantic.Com, 17 Jan. 2018, www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2018/01/equivant-compas-algorithm/550646/. Accessed 16 Sept. 2023.
The 2024 Education Beyond Borders study abroad program will give students the chance to examine the global topic of inclusion, culminating in travel to Vancouver, Canada, to examine the city’s Equity Framework.
Since 2016, the Education Beyond Borders study abroad program has brought learners together to cultivate a deeper understanding of the world. Born at the intersection of global engagement and cross-disciplinary collaboration, Education Beyond Borders was created for the institutions that make up The Community Solution Education System as part of a shared mission to prepare agents of change to serve a global community.
Available to current students and alumni, the program consists of an online course and culminates in a study abroad experience that gives participants the opportunity to engage with diverse populations around the globe. Joined by others from four colleges and universities across the U.S., participants will examine the topic of inclusion through the lens of several disciplines, including psychology, business, education, law, and humanistic health.
The inaugural Education Beyond Borders program in 2016 took participants to Berlin, Germany, to examine the topic of immigration and the country’s refugee crisis. Subsequently, participants traveled to Johannesburg and Cape town, South Africa in 2018 to examine the topic of identity. In 2019, studies on the concept of balance led to an enriching trip to Tokyo, Japan.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the program was fully virtual in 2020, connecting participants from institutions across the globe to explore the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health & Well-being.
2024 Theme: Inclusion in Context
The next theme for Education Beyond Borders is inclusion, and participants will dive into the topic through a three-credit online course culminating in travel to Vancouver, Canada in April 2024.
Situated on unceded (taken without consent) traditional territories of the native xʷməθkʷəy əm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the city of Vancouver was selected as an ideal location for students to gain further insight on the theme of inclusion. In recent years, the city has undergone a reckoning with its colonial history, resulting in the creation of an Equity Framework that outlines initiatives to address injustices and inequities experienced by historically marginalized populations. This framework will anchor the course studies.
Registration for Education Beyond Borders 2024 is open to students and alumni from The Chicago School, Saybrook University, Pacific Oaks College, and The Colleges of Law.
At The Colleges of Law, we believe in serving our global community. By examining identity through the lens of other cultures, learners cultivate a more dynamic worldview and improve their overall approach to service. Professionals with diverse cultural knowledge are better prepared to manage decisions with global implications—setting themselves apart as leaders in an evolving and complex international global workforce.
Learn more about Education Beyond Borders and register for the 2024 program here:
With the digital age affecting every aspect of business, the need for professionals who can effectively manage and protect information assets continues to increase. Information is more than just data; it’s a valuable business asset, and skilled individuals are needed to ensure its ethical and lawful use, as well as its safeguarding to mitigate operational risks.
What Is Information Governance?
Information governance encompasses the decision-making, procedural processes, and standards for using information to help a business meet its goals. Professionals in this field are entrusted with ensuring the ethical and legal use of information, while also instilling the procedures and frameworks needed to minimize operational risks. Let’s explore some of the lucrative roles available to those with an M.A. in Law specializing in Information Governance.
Digital Asset Manager
A Digital asset manager plays an important role in overseeing the acquisition, management, and protection of a business’s digital assets. Digital asset management jobs are in high demand as businesses increasingly generate and handle more sensitive information in their daily operations.
What Does a Digital Asset Manager Do?
Asset Classification: Develop and implement classification systems to categorize and index digital assets for easy retrieval.
Rights Management: Ensure compliance with copyright and licensing agreements for digital assets, securing permissions when necessary.
Digital Preservation: Develop strategies for long-term digital asset preservation and data security.
Digital Asset Manager Salary
The average salary in the U.S. for a digital asset manager is around $73,000 annually with an estimated range between $58,000 and $94,000 according to Glassdoor*
*Data gathered in 2023.
Information Risk and Governance Director
An information risk and governance director leads the development, execution, and performance of an organization’s security, risk management, and privacy program. These professionals are responsible for providing valuable consultation to leadership on informational risk to help the decision-making process. An information risk and governance director will need a proven track record in cyber security to take on this title.
What Does an Information Risk and Governance Director Do?
Strategy Development: Lead the development and implementation of information governance and eDiscovery risk management strategies within the organization.
Consultation: Provide expert consultation to leadership on data-related risks, aiding in strategic decision-making.
Risk Assessment: Identify, assess, and mitigate information-related risks, including data breaches and cybersecurity threats.
Information Risk and Governance Director Salary
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for an information risk and governance director in the U.S. is $163,000. The salary range typically falls between $145,000 and $185,000 for this position*.
*Data gathered in 2023.
Information Governance and Systems Analyst
Information governance and systems analysts are responsible for supporting the risk department by implementing information structures and frameworks that ensure information is accurately and efficiently moving through the organization. This job requires a firm understanding of databases and strong analytical skills.
What Does an Information Governance and Systems Analyst Do?
Framework Implementation: Implement information governance frameworks and data management strategies within the organization.
Database Management: Manage databases and data repositories, optimizing data storage and retrieval processes.
Data Quality Assurance: Ensure the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data by establishing data quality standards and controls.
Information Governance and Systems Analyst Salary
According to ZIppia, an information and systems analyst in the U.S. can expect to earn around $83,000 a year with a normal salary range between $58,000 and &119,000*.
*Data gathered in 2023.
Data Governance Officer
Data governance officers are key players in establishing and maintaining data governance frameworks within organizations, ensuring data accuracy, compliance, and security. With the increasing importance of data integrity and privacy, Data governance jobs have become indispensable at many major organizations.
What Does a Data Governance Officer Do?
Compliance Management: Ensure compliance with data protection regulations and privacy laws, such as GDPR or HIPAA.
Data Security: Implement security measures to protect data from breaches and unauthorized access.
Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of data governance practices, audits, and compliance records.
Data Governance Officer Salary
The salary for data governance officers in the U.S. is around $128,000 a year on average. The salary range for this role tends to be between $100,000 and $172,000 annually according to Talent.com.*
*Data gathered in 2023
Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Information Governance
With the evolving and growing nature of this field, the demand for information governance jobs will continue to rise. If you’re ready to make an impact on the way organizations handle and protect their data, then The Colleges of Law is your ideal partner. Our commitment to accessible legal education, innovation, and diversity ensures that you receive the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly changing landscape of the legal industry.
Take the first step toward your information governance career today. Explore The Colleges of Law Master of Arts in Law program, and open the door to a world of possibilities.
The Colleges of Law alumna Sheri Valley got her JD later in life so she could help those in need no matter their status.
Pursuing a psychology degree later in life, Sheri Valley was once on track to become a family therapist. “After working for years as a court reporter, I was blindsided when I witnessed a family member’s first psychotic episode. I decided to enroll in some psychology classes to learn everything I could to help,” Valley says. “The next thing I know, I was taking a full course load.”
She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University Channel Islands. Her focus of study was psychology in the legal system, but when she had the opportunity to participate in a mock trial, her career plans changed.
Valley volunteered to participate in the mock trial because the case involved someone who committed a crime while experiencing a manic episode. It was a study conducted in Valley’s criminal psychology class to show the biases of juries, but what it also revealed to Valley was her own desire to become a lawyer and advocate for people who live with mental health issues.
Law career unlocked
Once she knew she wanted to practice law, Valley’s path to getting there was different from that of many 20-something undergraduate students. Having married young, Valley was an older prospective student, and even her friends and family weren’t sure she could do it.
“I had basically no support when I started,” Valley says. “I applied without telling anyone and wasn’t sure I’d even get in. But I did.” The lack of support from some people in her life only made her more determined to become successful to prove everyone wrong.
The Colleges of Law, with its encouragement of students to work toward their legal goals no matter what stage of life they are in, seemed a natural fit for Valley’s unique needs. As a student there, she earned several scholastic awards, a Witkin Award, and the Women Lawyers of Ventura County’s Mary Sullivan Scholarship Award.
Valley also worked as an intern at the Ventura County Public Defender’s Office during her time at The Colleges of Law. Being at the public defender’s office, she saw the ways the legal system was helping those who faced mental health challenges, but also the ways it was failing them. She participated in the “Assist” task force and drafted the first legal protocols to support the implementation of Laura’s Law in Ventura County.
Laura’s Law was enacted to allow families and loved ones to get help for the person in their life who is suffering from serious mental illness yet is reluctant to accept the treatment they need. Caseworkers meet those in need where they are—whether that’s a park bench, a shelter, or somewhere else—and keep showing up to meet with and encourage everyone along the way to voluntarily accept mental health treatment. Valley worked to figure out how the law could best serve those in need and collaborated with multiple county agencies, Ventura County Behavioral Health, the public defender’s office, Ventura County Counsel, and other experts.
One in five American adults experiences some sort of mental illness, and one in 25 experience a serious mental illness. As someone personally touched by the effects of mental illness on families, Valley is an advocate for families and loved ones who need support, assisting them in finding resources, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which Valley says was a lifesaver for her when she was searching for knowledge and support.
Practicing what she preaches
During her two years as a certified law clerk with the public defender’s office, Valley worked diligently in the mental health and veterans’ courts. She resolved 58 legal cases for veterans at Ventura County Stand Down, an annual event that offers homeless vets free legal and medical services. Yet Valley knew that once she passed the bar, she would only be able to work in mental health court if she stayed in the public defender’s office. Instead, she applied to private practice law firms.
“Unless someone gets in trouble for committing a crime or is being involuntarily hospitalized, lawyers’ jobs generally do not interact with those who live with severe mental illness. But there are so many other ways I try to help parents and loved ones find the resources they need,” Valley says.
“Many of us want to help those who live with mental illness avoid jail and hospitalization,” Valley adds. “With programs like Ventura County Behavioral Health’s Assist Program (Laura’s Law), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and Turning Point Foundation of Ventura County, another service that helps those with mental illness get jobs and maintain stability, there are a lot of programs where they can find help. There’s never going to be enough resources, but helping someone navigate the system is a start.”
Valley’s first case as a newly minted attorney still looks like serendipity to the outside eye. Drawing again on her psychology degree and background, she worked on a national product liability case for victims of electroconvulsive therapy products who suffered brain injury.
“Seeking treatment for mental health issues, these plaintiffs were struggling every day with all sorts of cognitive issues after being treated with these shock therapy machines,” Valley says.
In her newest venture as an associate at the law firm of Myers, Widders, Gibson, Jones & Feingold, LLP, Valley works on construction defect and insurance litigation, focusing on bad faith claims against insurance companies that, “inter alia,” are not willing to pay the insured’s claim. Whether Valley is helping people fight their insurance company for benefits or assisting in navigating the Ventura County Behavioral Health system, she’s serving her community.
Ventura County from the start
As a longtime Camarillo resident, Valley praises The Colleges of Law for providing support to students who are in unique situations. “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without The Colleges of Law. We had access to practicing lawyers and judges from Day One. In Ventura County, everyone knows and respects The Colleges of Law because of the teachers and the lawyers who are currently working in the field.”
Oh, and eventually her friends and family came around. “After I passed the first year of law school, they realized I was really doing this, and now they couldn’t be more supportive.”
Many states make it difficult for out-of-state lawyers from state-accredited law schools to be admitted to practice. The Colleges of Law alumnus Daniel Knight reveals how he became barred in six states (and counting).
Like many graduates of The Colleges of Law, Daniel Knight, J.D., had built a life and career before he ever applied to law school. He started a construction company shortly after high school, and, while he was running that business, he earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in accounting before enrolling at The Colleges of Law.
Upon graduation, Knight realized he could not support his family on an associate’s pay, so he hung up his shingle. “I think I had my bar number for about four days before I filed my first lawsuit,” Knight says.
After five years of practicing law, Knight and his wife took a trip to Maui. It inspired him to look into the rules for practicing law in Hawaii, which stated that the applicant must be a graduate of an American Bar Association-accredited school. That might have been the end of the story, but Knight noticed there was another option that said an applicant could become eligible if they “demonstrate the active practice of law.”
It was the pursuit of this second option that began Knight’s quest to become barred in six states (and counting). Over the course of his efforts, he learned a great deal about the process, how states are similar and how they are different in admitting lawyers from other states to their bar. (For more on the differences in practicing in other states with an ABA-accredited degree as opposed to a state-accredited school, read “ABA vs. Cal Bar schools: What’s the difference?”)
Daniel Knight’s Tips for Becoming Barred to Practice Law in Multiple States
Tip 1: Ask why not
As Knight began his effort in each state, he asked himself why anyone should refuse to accept him to the bar when he had demonstrated that he has all the necessary qualifications.
Having graduated from a state-accredited institution, Knight has had Harvard Law School and Yale Law School graduates look down their noses at him but then lose to him in court, so he proved that he was qualified and skilled enough to practice anywhere.
To make a successful case to practice law in a different state, lawyers should be responsive to the bar analysts in each state with requests for documentation, which might include driving records, credit reports, and caption sheets.
Tip 2: Accrue documented time practicing law as soon and as often as possible.
One of the most valuable points in support of Knight’s effort to be admitted to other state bars was his documented accrued practice time. He went into private practice straight out of law school and demonstrated through caption sheets the cases he had argued in court.
“I didn’t know at the time how important it would be to have an active practice of law that was documented,” Knight says. “I found that no matter how many times I’ve been told no, when they learn I’ve been practicing successfully in California, which has one of the highest bar cut scores in the country, they suddenly stopped worrying as much about their rules.”
Tip 3: Ask to speak to the boss.
When Knight contacted the Hawaii bar association saying he would like to take advantage of their practice exemption, the analyst told him he had to be a graduate of an ABA-accredited school. Instead of backing down, Knight asked the analyst for their boss’s email. The boss told Knight that indeed there is a provision, rarely exercised, for a practice equivalency.
Knight says he realized early that some who work in state bar offices find it much easier to send back a quick answer that sounds good and doesn’t require any research. “The first time you get told no, do not stop,” he says. “Every state that I’ve gone into, they’ve told me that it was not possible.”
Tip 4: Learn the rules and take advantage of what you learn.
Knight says that often the states’ analysts don’t even know the rules for barring lawyers from out of state. Through time and effort, Knight learned that each state has different procedures, and all of them require a lot of documentation. However, much of what the states require is very similar, and each state’s bar exam, as well as the Uniform Bar Exam, is only slightly different from another.
After he submitted all the necessary paperwork to the Hawaii State Bar Association, the analyst handling his case told him, “We’ll see if we’re going to accept this,” to which Knight replied, “You will accept it,” pointing out the HBSA’s own rule on the matter.
Tip 5: Be polite but persistent.
After applying in Texas and not hearing back for several months, Knight sent an email to the State Bar of Texas saying, “I don’t mean to pester you, but is there someone who can review my application?” A short time later, a Texas state official replied, apologizing to Knight for not getting back to him sooner and telling him he was approved.
Knight says there’s a fine art of not pestering bar analysts enough to anger them but also making a point of checking in, because sometimes they do forget about you.
Thanks to his efforts, Knight has a thriving law practice with offices in California, Hawaii, and Texas. The process of pursuing bar admission taught Knight valuable lessons about his own abilities as a lawyer and how his practice appears to bar analysts in each of the states he approached. Any lawyer who seeks to practice in other states will find Knight’s experience a valuable road map to follow. Those who are not should recognize the value in making sure all their records and accounting are current should they wish to take such a step in the future.
To learn more about the J.D., Hybrid J.D., and M.A. in Law programs at The Colleges of Law, fill out the form below.
Finding a job that intersects with the legal profession should not be hard; learn about how you can build your resume and find law firms that are hiring.
For many students who have just graduated from law school, getting a job at a law firm is their first “real” or professional job, but those looking for entry-level attorney jobs should first be fully prepared for what they can expect during the hiring process at a law firm. From knowing the best law firms for work-life balance, to making sure your law firm application is in the best condition, there’s a wide variety of variables every law school graduate needs to know before they find law firms that are hiring entry-level lawyers.
What Law Firms Should You Look For?
The first thing you should do is look around at the resources available to you. Reaching out to your alma mater’s career center is the first step in finding law firms that are hiring. Through your law school’s career center you may potentially find a variety of resources that can help you learn more about how to apply to law firms. Some career centers can help you reach out to more experienced graduates who either work at or have set up their own law practices. Other career centers can sit you down and help look over your resume and the emails that you are writing during the law firm application process, making sure you are crafting high-quality content that not only highlights your academic credentials and your professional accomplishments but also helps to emphasize your personality.
LinkedIn is another great way to find alumni from your law school. Before reaching out to alumni and asking them about their own experiences finding and applying to law firms that are hiring, make sure your LinkedIn profile is fully updated. Try using the “people” and “all filters” search options when looking for alumni in your desired cities and/or states where you are looking for a job.
Finally, using an online directory of legal attorneys, firms, and consumers, such as Martindale, is a great way to do your research on which law firms potentially have entry-level attorney jobs. Not only is this a great way to find open positions, but it is also a good way to build up a list you can use alongside your other resources. Bring a list of potential law firms you are interested in to your law school’s career center—or to an unofficial interview with a fellow alumnus from your law school—and ask them their opinions about these law firms. Knowing how to apply to law firms is about polishing your professional resume before you even send out the first email to law firms, making sure you have the connections and knowledge necessary to stand out among your fellow candidates.
How To Build Up Your Resume To Impress Law Firms
Even if you don’t have any professional experience you still have the opportunity to build up your professional resume before applying to law firm entry-level positions. Either as a law school graduate or as a student, you can start to work as a volunteer. Applying for volunteer pro bono positions is a great way to not only impress your future employers, but it is crucial for building up both professional and personal skills. Your in-classroom experience is vital, but taking those skills and then applying them in real-world situations is what demonstrates your ability to be a forward-thinking professional in the legal world.
The best law firms for work-life balance seek the best candidates who look at their schedules during law school and create a curriculum that focuses on learning and building legal experience both in and out of the classroom.
How To Conduct Targeted Outreach on Law Firms
Once you have a list of law firms and have either advice or references from law school alumni, try to find someone at these law firms who has hiring authority. As an outsider, reaching out to these individuals (who could be a partner, member, or director of recruiting) shows them you have the initiative and awareness to know who to reach out to. Beyond that, it shows that you have the ability to be direct, which is a skill crucial for anyone who wants to have a career that intersects with law.
Where Should You Start Your Academic Career in Law?
A proper legal education does not just build up your resume, it can set you up for a lifetime of success. The resources you get during your tenure in law school are crucial for entry-level jobs in a law firm. At The Colleges of Law, for more than 50 years it has been their mission to provide a high-quality legal education that is more accessible and accommodating to a diverse range of students. With a strong pool of graduates who have found successful careers for themselves, you too can join their ranks and find a job that intersects your passions with the legal profession.
To learn more about the programs at The Colleges of Law, fill out the form below.
Learn more about how a Master of Arts in Law can prepare you for a variety of opportunities within the compliance field.
Compliance
In an age when legal standards and ethical obligations intersect with business operations, the field of compliance has grown in importance. It represents a multifaceted discipline, essential for organizations aiming to maintain integrity while avoiding regulatory repercussions. With an M.A. in Law, graduates are poised to tap into this dynamic sector, championing compliance roles that are both crucial and rewarding.
Here is a list of potential careers in compliance:
1. Compliance Officer
What does a compliance officer do? A compliance officer is essential for guiding an organization through the maze of industry-specific regulations. Key responsibilities include:
Legal framework navigation: Using their deep understanding of legal systems to ensure operations stay within legal parameters.
Development of control systems: Creating, implementing, and overseeing systems that detect and deal with violations of regulations and internal policies.
Evaluation: Regularly assessing the efficiency of control systems and suggesting improvements.
Collaboration: Working in tandem with executive and managerial teams, reporting findings and advocating for corrective measures.
Culture creation: Promoting a culture of adherence by educating and training company staff on compliance matters.
How an M.A. in Law degree elevates a compliance officer’s career A Master of Arts in Law degree isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a ticket to a thriving career in compliance. Here’s why:
Analytical skills: Advanced legal education refines one’s ability to dissect and interpret complex regulations.
Comprehensive knowledge: This degree provides a deeper understanding of legal concepts crucial for effective compliance.
Specialization: Tailored expertise in areas like corporate governance, health care, finance, or data privacy can be obtained, making individuals invaluable in various industries.
Risk management: With this degree, one can expertly shield organizations from potential legal pitfalls and reputational hazards.
How much can a compliance officer make? The average salary for someone who works as a compliance officer is about $62,000 to $130,000 annually, with a median salary around $91,000, according to Salary.com*.
*Data gathered in 2023.
2. Compliance Analyst
Compliance analysts are essential professionals who ensure organizations adhere to legal standards. With a deep understanding of regulations, they navigate businesses through complex regulatory landscapes.
What does a compliance analyst do? Compliance analysts play a vital role in ensuring an organization adheres to legal standards and in-house policies. Key responsibilities include:
Monitoring regulations: Tracking changes in relevant legislation and ensuring the company’s compliance with external rules and regulations.
Risk assessment: Identifying areas of compliance risk and working to mitigate those risks through strategic planning.
Data analysis: Collecting and analyzing data to recognize compliance performance, preparing detailed reports for management.
Policy development and implementation: Assisting in the creation and implementation of internal compliance policies and procedures.
Training and support: Educating staff about compliance requirements and offering support in alignment with regulatory obligations.
What is the value of a Master of Arts in Law degree for a compliance analyst? A Master of Arts in Law degree is an asset for anyone aspiring to become a compliance analyst. Here’s how it contributes:
Critical thinking: The degree sharpens critical thinking skills needed for regulatory analysis.
Regulatory expertise: Specialized knowledge in law helps in interpreting and applying complex regulations.
Strategic planning: Advanced legal education aids in the strategic planning of compliance measures.
Career growth: Enhances opportunities for career advancement in compliance within various industries.
How much can a compliance analyst make? The average salary for someone who works as a Compliance Analyst is about $60,849 to $64,730 annually, according to Salary.com*.
*Data gathered in 2023.
3. Risk Analyst
Risk analysts are pivotal in assessing and mitigating potential vulnerabilities within organizations. Armed with analytical prowess, they forecast and strategize to safeguard businesses from unforeseen threats.
What does a risk analyst do? A risk analyst is instrumental in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating risks to safeguard an organization’s assets and profitability. Key responsibilities include:
Risk identification: Scanning business processes, financial structures, and market trends to pinpoint vulnerabilities.
Quantitative analysis: Utilizing statistical techniques to gauge potential financial impacts of identified risks.
Strategy development: Crafting strategies and recommendations to manage or reduce identified risks.
Reporting: Presenting findings and strategic solutions to leadership and relevant stakeholders.
Collaboration: Working alongside other departments to ensure that risk management strategies are integrated into company processes.
How a Master of Arts in Law degree provides value for a risk analyst While traditionally a background in finance or statistics might be expected for a risk analyst, a Master of Arts in Law degree brings unique value. Here’s how:
Legal acumen: Deep understanding of legal frameworks can inform risk assessment, especially in regulated industries.
Critical evaluation: The degree cultivates a nuanced ability to dissect and interpret complex matters, vital for risk analysis.
Ethical consideration: Legal training often emphasizes ethical considerations, ensuring risks are evaluated not just for profitability, but for ethical implications as well.
Career differentiation: The blend of law and risk analysis can set candidates apart in a competitive job market.
How Much Can a Risk Analyst Make? The average salary for someone who works as a risk analyst is about $92,911 annually, according to Glassdoor*.
In the contemporary corporate landscape, the importance of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is paramount. A DEI compliance specialist is a crucial player, seamlessly melding legal acumen with the principles of DEI to ensure organizations not only meet regulatory standards but truly embody a culture of inclusivity and fairness.
What does a DEI compliance specialist do? A DEI compliance specialist champions initiatives that promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. Their primary responsibilities encompass:
Policy development: Crafting and implementing policies that support diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization.
Monitoring and reporting: Assessing the effectiveness of DEI initiatives and producing detailed reports on progress, areas of improvement, and successes.
Training and workshops: Organizing training sessions and workshops to educate employees about the importance of DEI and address unconscious biases.
Collaboration: Engaging with leadership, HR, and other departments to embed DEI principles throughout company practices.
Regulatory compliance: Ensuring that the organization meets any local, state, or federal DEI-related regulations or requirements.
The value of a Master of Arts in Law degree for a DEI compliance specialist A Master of Arts in Law degree can significantly enhance the credentials of a DEI compliance specialist. Here’s the potential impact:
Legal insight: A profound understanding of legal regulations surrounding equal employment opportunity, affirmative action, and other related areas.
Ethical framework: Ability to frame DEI initiatives within a robust ethical and legal structure, ensuring genuine impact and compliance.
Advanced negotiation: Skills in mediation and negotiation can facilitate more effective discussions around sensitive DEI topics.
Career advantage: Combining DEI expertise with a legal background provides an edge in a rapidly evolving field.
The field of compliance offers a vast realm of opportunities for those equipped with the right credentials and skill set. With an M.A. in Law, graduates not only acquire a nuanced understanding of the legal landscape but also hone their analytical abilities to navigate the intricate maze of regulations and ethical standards. As businesses worldwide continue to evolve, so too will the need for professionals dedicated to ensuring that these entities operate within the bounds of law and ethics. An M.A. in Law therefore serves as a passport to a promising, impactful, and ever-evolving career in compliance.
Ventura attorney Lauren Nicholson joins The Colleges of Law, focusing on the mission of access, opportunity, and affordability.
SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA – Lauren Nicholson (J.D. ’17) is the newest member of The Colleges of Law Board of Trustees. A graduate of the school’s Ventura campus, Nicholson joins the 15-member governance body that oversees the region’s oldest and largest independent law school.
Nicholson currently serves as president of the Women Lawyers of Ventura County, advocating on behalf of women and girls in the local community. She is also a board member at large for the Ventura County Family Law Bar Association, organizing local continuing legal education opportunities and contributing to the local family law community. Nicholson regularly volunteers with the Ventura County Superior Court as a Settlement Officer, acting as a neutral guide to help family law litigants understand the strengths and weaknesses of their cases and discuss settlements, and she is a volunteer attorney at the Conejo Free Clinic, providing free legal services to litigants in need of family law assistance.
“I am honored to be joining the Board of Trustees,” said Nicholson. “The Colleges of Law is a wonderful law school. It provided me with an opportunity to study under professors who were accomplished lawyers and judges. I am proud to call it my alma mater and give back though board service.”
Nicholson brings extensive knowledge of The Colleges of Law’s academia to her appointment. She was ranked first in her graduating class in 2017, with concentrations in Business Law and Family Law, and has also served as adjunct faculty at the college where she taught classes such as Litigation: An Overview of Processes and Procedures, Bar Studies, Legal Writing, and Remedies.
“The Board made an inspired choice with electing Lauren as a trustee and fiduciary,” said The Colleges of Law President Matthew Nehmer, Ph.D. “As someone who knows and lives our mission, she is sure to make a difference in realizing our vision of modernizing legal education through innovation and better preparing graduates for where the field goes next.”
The Colleges of Law Board Chair Jana Johnston (J.D. ’03) agreed. “By adding Lauren, we took what was already an excellent and engaged Board and made it better,” she said. “She will bring distinct perspectives to our work as a proud alumna, past faculty member, and rising star in the Ventura legal community.”
Prior to The Colleges of Law, Nicholson earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University, Fresno, and a Master of Arts in English from California State University, Bakersfield. Nicholson currently owns a solo practice in Ventura where she works as a family law attorney dealing with uncontested and contested dissolutions and legal separations, divorce mediation, division of marital property, child support, child custody, paternity, domestic partnerships, and domestic violence restraining orders.
About The Colleges of Law:
Established in 1969, The Colleges of Law was founded to expand opportunities and broaden access to legal education. The Colleges of Law is dedicated to a student-centered approach that affords students of diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue careers in law or legal-related fields. The college’s faculty advances a real-world perspective and practicality on the application of law and includes practicing attorneys, judges, public servants, and leaders in business and nonprofit organizations. An accredited nonprofit institution, The Colleges Law offers a Juris Doctor and a Master of Arts in Law. Additionally, in the fall of 2018, The Colleges of Law became the first accredited law school in California to offer a Hybrid J.D. degree.
The Colleges of Law is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The Juris Doctor program is accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners (CBE) of the State Bar of California. The Colleges of Law is part of The Community Solution Education System, a nonprofit system of colleges advancing student success and community impact. For more information, visit www.collegesoflaw.edu.
The Colleges of Law is the only law school among other legal employers that the State Bar of California has honored with this award.
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. and VENTURA, Calif., June 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — The Colleges of Law is among an inaugural group of legal employers and the only law school to be awarded a DEI Leadership Seal by the State Bar of California. The DEI Leadership Seal Program recognizes legal employers who implement research-driven actions that further workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This prestigious recognition highlights The Colleges of Law’s commitment to improving access and promoting inclusion within the legal profession.
“At The Colleges of Law, we believe that diversity is not just an aspiration but a fundamental element of the justice system,” says Matthew Nehmer, Ph.D., The Colleges of Law president. “We are honored to receive this recognition as a testament to our mission of increasing access and opportunity within the legal profession.”
Since its founding in 1969, The Colleges of Law has championed accessibility and affordability in legal education. With the creation of the first Hybrid J.D. program in California, the college made significant inroads in diversifying its student body. Within California, the African American population is 6%, but within the Hybrid J.D. program, it’s 12%.
Last year, the college established the Access, Belonging, and Community (ABC) Task Force. Focused on creating meaningful experiences around DEI initiatives, the task force established a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and dialogue among individuals from all backgrounds through constituent research, educational events, and community gatherings.
In its 2022 Diversity Report Card, the State Bar published calls to action that legal employers could implement to support greater DEI in the workplace with the aim of encouraging and recognizing firms, legal departments, and law schools that demonstrate exceptional leadership in this area. As part of the first cohort in the State Bar’s DEI Leadership Seal program, The Colleges of Law was named a silver tier recipient for its work on DEI-focused initiatives.
The DEI Leadership Seal is a significant milestone for The Colleges of Law, highlighting its leadership role in fostering diversity and inclusion within legal education. These efforts reflect the college’s commitment to nurturing future legal professionals who will advocate for justice and equality in their communities.
“Accessible, high-quality legal education is the founding principle for our institution,” Chief Academic Officer and Dean Jackie Gardina, JD, says. “By working to diversify the legal profession and increase equity we are building a stronger justice system that better serves its citizens.”
About The Colleges of Law:
Established in 1969, The Colleges of Law (COL) was founded to expand opportunities and broaden access to legal education. COL is dedicated to a student-centered approach that affords students of diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue careers in law or legal-related fields. COL’s faculty advances a real-world perspective and practicality on the application of law and includes practicing attorneys, judges, public servants, and leaders in business and nonprofit organizations. An accredited nonprofit institution, COL offers a Juris Doctor and a Master of Arts in Law. Additionally, in the fall of 2018, COL became the first accredited law school in California to offer a Hybrid J.D. degree. COL is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The Juris Doctor program is accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners (CBE) of the State Bar of California. The Colleges of Law is part of The Community Solution Education System, a nonprofit system of colleges advancing student success and community impact. For more information, visit www.collegesoflaw.edu.
