When it comes to launching a legal career, Philadelphia, the cradle of American democracy, offers a unique blend of history, opportunity, and vibrancy that few cities can match. As the sixth-largest city in the U.S., Philly provides a dynamic environment for aspiring attorneys: a place where tradition meets innovation, and courtroom skills are honed alongside cutting-edge legal theory.
With its proximity to major East Coast legal markets, a rich selection of highly respected law schools, diverse internship and clerkship opportunities, and an affordable, exciting urban lifestyle, Philadelphia is a prime destination for students pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) or advancing their legal education. For those looking to live near their studies, apartments in West Philadelphia offer a convenient, vibrant living space with easy access to campus and the legal community. Whether you're a first-year law student or a bar exam candidate prepping for the next step, life as a budding legal professional in the heart of Philly is rich with promise.
Philadelphia is home to several nationally ranked law schools, each with its own distinctive culture, academic strengths, and areas of legal specialization.
Penn Law is a top 10 law school nationally, known for its elite faculty, rigorous academics, and interdisciplinary approach to legal education. Students can take classes across the university, at Wharton, the School of Social Policy, or the Annenberg School, offering a versatile legal education.
Penn Law emphasizes clinical experience and public service, giving students the chance to work in real-world legal settings before graduation. Their Toll Public Interest Center (TPIC) ensures all JD students engage in at least 70 hours of pro bono service.
Situated in North Philadelphia, Temple Law is celebrated for its trial advocacy program, consistently ranked among the top in the nation. Temple also offers a part-time evening division, making it ideal for students balancing work and school.
With an emphasis on practical skills, diverse perspectives, and affordability, Temple prepares its students for both litigation and transactional practice. Its proximity to local, state, and federal courthouses allows for deep engagement with the legal community.
One of the newer law schools in the area, Drexel Kline Law has quickly risen in rankings thanks to its cooperative education model, which integrates real legal work experience into the curriculum. Students participate in co-op placements in law firms, corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies.
Drexel is known for strong programs in health law, intellectual property, and business law. The law school is named after one of the nation’s top trial lawyers, Thomas R. Kline, underscoring its focus on real-world readiness.
Though located across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey, Rutgers Law–Camden is part of the broader Philly legal ecosystem. It offers affordable tuition, a strong public interest focus, and access to jobs and internships in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Students can specialize in areas like environmental law, civil rights, and international law, and benefit from Rutgers’ large alumni network and research resources.
Philadelphia is a regional legal hub, hosting a wide spectrum of legal employers—from massive corporate law firms and government agencies to nonprofits and public defenders’ offices.
Philadelphia is home to numerous AmLaw 100 firms, including:
These firms offer competitive salaries, prestigious clerkship opportunities, and national case exposure. While the environment is high-pressure, it opens doors to long-term, high-earning legal careers.
Philadelphia hosts federal courts (Eastern District of Pennsylvania), state appellate courts, and local courts, offering a wealth of clerkship positions. Clerkships provide invaluable experience and networking opportunities, often acting as stepping stones to positions in top firms, academia, or public service.
If you’re interested in public service, Philly offers a robust ecosystem:
These organizations allow law students and new attorneys to gain courtroom experience quickly while making a real difference in the community.
Philly is home to many major corporations - including Comcast, Aramark, FMC Corporation, and Independence Blue Cross - providing in-house counsel opportunities for attorneys looking to work in business, compliance, or regulatory affairs.
Living in Philly while attending law school comes with the perks of a vibrant, livable, and relatively affordable city, a rare combination among major U.S. legal markets. The city's rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and unique cultural attractions offer students an environment full of opportunities to both unwind and engage with the local community.
From world-class museums and delicious food to vibrant nightlife and easy access to the outdoors, Philadelphia has something for everyone. Additionally, its relatively lower cost of living compared to other big cities like New York or DC means that law students can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Rents are manageable, public transportation is reliable (via SEPTA), and student discounts are widely available. The legal market here is strong, with a range of law firms, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies providing ample internship and job prospects.
Yes, law school is demanding, but Philadelphia offers many ways to recharge, explore, and stay connected to the world beyond legal briefs.
Philly’s culinary scene is diverse and budget friendly. From cheesesteaks and soft pretzels to upscale dining and hidden BYOB spots, there’s something for every palate.
Law students enjoy access to:
If you're a sports fan, catch games at the Wells Fargo Center or Citizens Bank Park, or join a local kickball or volleyball league. Law schools often have intramural teams, wellness programs, and affinity groups to foster a sense of belonging.
Law schools in Philly offer vibrant student communities and extracurricular involvement, which are crucial for career development and mental wellness.
Law Review & Journals: Valuable experience for those eyeing clerkships or academia.
Mock Trial and Moot Court: Great for sharpening litigation skills.
Bar Association Events: The Philadelphia Bar Association and various affinity bar groups (Black Lawyers, Hispanic Bar, LGBTQ+ Bar, etc.) offer networking, mentorship, and career guidance.
Pro Bono Clinics: Engage with real clients while fulfilling volunteer hours—especially robust at Penn, Temple, and Rutgers.
Whether your passion lies in corporate law, public interest, litigation, academia, or international advocacy, Philadelphia offers a unique platform to cultivate your legal career. With its esteemed law schools, accessible legal network, and vibrant urban life, the city is more than a place to study law, it’s a place to become a lawyer.
Here in the heart of Philly, you’ll not only learn the law, you’ll live it. In courtrooms steeped in history, classrooms led by renowned faculty, and neighborhoods buzzing with culture and opportunity, you’ll find the ideal setting to build your future as a legal professional.
