Legal Education in Virginia

Charlottesville, Virginia — Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819 — consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally with a uniquely collegial culture.

Williamsburg, Virginia — The oldest law school in America, founded in 1779 — small class sizes and a commitment to public service.

Lexington, Virginia — Founded in 1849 — known for its honor system, third-year practicum program, and a strong sense of community.

Arlington, Virginia — Located near Washington, D.C. — strengths in law and economics, IP, and cybersecurity law.

Richmond, Virginia — Private law school in the state capital — known for IP law, clinical programs, and a strong alumni network in Virginia courts.

Virginia Beach, Virginia — Christian law school offering JD and LLM programs — strengths in public interest law and trial advocacy.

Lynchburg, Virginia — Christian law school with a focus on constitutional law and religious liberty — lawyering skills program integrated throughout the curriculum.

Grundy, Virginia — ABA-accredited law school in rural Virginia — committed to serving underrepresented communities in the Appalachian region.

Annandale, Virginia — ABA-Approved — ABA-approved AAS degree in Paralegal Studies serving the Northern Virginia/D.C. metro area.

Richmond, Virginia — ABA-Approved — ABA-approved post-baccalaureate paralegal certificate taught by practicing attorneys.

Harrisonburg, Virginia — ABA-Approved — ABA-approved paralegal certificate through Professional & Continuing Education — taught by practicing attorneys.

Professional association for Virginia court reporters — advocacy, networking, and continuing education resources.

Free six-week introductory steno program from the National Court Reporters Association.

State office overseeing court-connected mediation and ADR services — maintains mediator certification under Virginia Supreme Court guidelines.

Statewide organization supporting community mediation centers — training standards and professional development for Virginia mediators.

National professional organization offering the LNCC certification — the only legal nurse consultant credential accredited by ABSNC.

Official guide. Requirements: 18+, Virginia resident or Virginia-employed, complete approved course, $40 fee. Four-year commission.

Official admissions body. Virginia administers the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) — minimum passing score of 266. Also requires the Virginia Law Component.

Official MCLE body — attorneys must complete 12 credits per year, including 2 ethics credits. Compliance deadline October 31.

CLE resources and course information for Virginia attorneys — integrated bar with mandatory membership.

National certifications for legal support staff — ALP, PLS, and CLP credentials.