If you are a law student aiming for a clerkship and think you've missed your chance at a federal position, consider setting your sights on state clerkships instead. The law school you attend can significantly influence your chances of securing such positions due to their local judicial connections and the success of past graduates.

The Princeton Review has released its latest rankings, which include a list of law schools that excel in placing graduates in state and local judicial clerkships. This information is particularly valuable for students looking to work within their state's judicial system after graduation.

The ranking is based on data reported by the schools themselves, focusing on the percentage of 2024 JD graduates who secured jobs in state and local clerkships. The Princeton Review's findings highlight several institutions that stand out in this arena.

Here are the top law schools for state clerkships in 2025: 1. Seton Hall University School of Law 2. Rutgers School of Law 3. Widener University Delaware Law School 4. University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law 5. University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law 6. Vermont Law and Graduate School – Law Program 7. University of St. Thomas School of Law (MN) 8. University of Minnesota Law School 9. University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law 10. University of Colorado School of Law

It's noteworthy that New Jersey boasts two top schools in this category, Seton Hall and Rutgers, demonstrating strong local judicial ties. Minnesota also impresses with two of its law schools making the top ten, showcasing the state's robust educational offerings in the legal field.

The results prompt a broader discussion about the importance of choosing a law school that not only provides excellent education but also offers strategic advantages in the job market, particularly in specialized fields like judicial clerkships.

For more detailed insights and to view the full list of rankings, you can visit the Princeton Review's official website. Whether your school made the list or not, this ranking provides a useful guide for prospective law students and current students planning their career paths in the judiciary.

Feel free to share your thoughts on these rankings. Did your law school make the cut? Do you believe the rankings fairly represent the schools' capabilities in placing graduates in state clerkships? Your feedback is valuable and can be directed to [email protected] or via text to (646-820-8477).

For further reading, check out the Princeton Review's full law school rankings for 2025, which cover various categories and can help students and graduates make informed decisions about their education and career trajectories.