12th MARINE CORPS DISTRICT
RECRUITING STATION LOS ANGELES
Official U.S. Marine Corps Web Site
LEADER, WARRIOR, ATTORNEY
To practice law is a privilege. To practice law as a Marine Officer is a distinction reserved for the few who have what it takes, mentally, morally and physically, to become leader of Marines. If you prove yourself worthy, you will not only serve in the field of law, but you will serve your country as an officer in the United States Marine Corps.
As a Marine Corps Judge Advocate General (JAG), you will immediately be given the responsibilities of maintaining your own caseload and advising Marines on legal issues. Additionally, the training you receive as a Marine Corps Officer will prepare you to be a leader from day one. While most new civilian attorneys are relegated to research duty on cases tried by others, you will be building your skills and acquiring real legal experience in the courtroom.
Two paths:
- Platoon Leaders Class - Law: This option is open to college seniors who have been accepted for a full-time study at an ABA-accredited law school; and first and second year law students. In addition to tuition assistance, Marines receive constructive credit for each year in law school prior to commissioning. While in law school, you will be mentored by judge advocates that are currently serving. During your law school summer, and following graduation and completion of the bar examination, you will have the opportunity to serve in legal billets at Marine Corps bases.
- Officer Candidate Course - Law: Third-year law students and bar-certified lawyers begin their training at the Officer Candidate Course. Constructive service credit will be awarded for every year in law school, meaning you will advance in seniority and eligibility for promotion.
