Top Ten Movies to Watch Before Law School

1. The Paper Chase

The quintessential law school movie, The Paper Chase depicts the tough contracts professor that most law schools boast. You’ll see the Socratic Method at work and learn the importance of an outline. Lesson: “You come in here with a skull full of mush and you leave thinking like a lawyer.”

2. Legally Blonde

The first part of the movie is a primer in how not apply for, or dress in law school. As Elle Woods gains her footing, her clothing decisions are much more professional. Lesson: don’t judge a book by its cover.

3. My Cousin Vinny

This is one of our favorite movies. The entire film centers on Joe Pesci as a trial lawyer, and is a pretty good example of what not to do. This movie would be nothing without Marisa Tomei’s several, quote-worthy memorable scenes. Lesson: the importance of good expert testimony.

4. Rounders

Matt Damon plays a law student/gambler that needs to pay back a huge gambling debt. Lesson: just study, don’t gamble.

5. The Firm

Tom Cruise discovers the dark side of a law firm he works for. Lesson: um, how about don’t work for a firm like this.

6. Philadelphia