Ever wondered where legal eagles in San Diego learn to spread their wings? That’s Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Established in 1969 it started as the San Diego campus of Western State University College of Law.
Originally downtown the school catered to working professionals. They could only attend law school in the evenings. In 1983 the school moved to a larger campus in Old Town San Diego. This accommodated a growing demand for a full-time program.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law became independent in 1995. It was renamed Thomas Jefferson School of Law. In 2001 it became a private non-profit institution. The school returned to its downtown roots in 2010. It is in the heart of the city’s legal community.
The Thomas Jefferson School of Law offers Juris Doctor degrees. It also offers Master of Laws programs. These include an exclusively online option. There’s also a combined J.D. and M.B.A. program with San Diego State University.
The school isn’t accredited by the American Bar Association since 2019. However it is approved by the California State Bar’s Committee of Bar Examiners.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law has a Center for Solo Practitioners. This lawyer incubator program supports alumni starting solo practices. It also helps serve under-represented communities. The American Bar Association honored the center in 2013. It recognized the program’s success for solo and small-firm lawyers.
The Thomas Jefferson School of Law also boasts Centers for Law and Social Justice. These centers research and teach in areas of public policy and law.
Notable alumni include Roger Benitez. He is a federal judge of the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of California. Bonnie Dumanis is also an alumna. She was the first openly gay or lesbian district attorney in the US.
Thinking about joining? Applicants need an associate’s degree. They must submit LSAT scores. The school reviews academic performance letters of recommendation and personal statements. Thomas Jefferson School of Law considers commitment to public service and unique challenges.
Thomas Jefferson School of Law is dedicated to helping students explore financial aid options. They believe everyone deserves access to quality legal education.
Though the Thomas Jefferson School of Law has faced challenges it remains committed to its students. It strives to provide a supportive environment for legal studies.
As you stand here remember the Thomas Jefferson School of Law’s journey. From its humble beginnings to its current downtown location it has shaped countless legal careers. It stands as a testament to the enduring pursuit of justice and knowledge in San Diego.