University of Virginia Legal Working Paper Series

University of Virginia Public Law and Legal Theory Working Paper Series

 

KNOTS IN THE LAW SCHOOL PIPELINE FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR: The LSAT Is Not the Problem and Affirmative Action Is Not the Answer

Alex M. Johnson Jr., University of Virginia School of Law

Abstract

This article identifies and addresses one of the most important issues in legal education today: the declining number of students of color (African-Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanics--designated “underrepresented”) admitted to and matriculating at American law schools. This decline in underrepresented students is worsening notwithstanding an increase in applications to law schools from these same students. Furthermore, although affirmative action remains lawful, I contend that it is being negated through actions taken by administrators, deans and bar examiners acting at various stages of the “Law School Pipeline.” Lastly, I note that the underrepresented students, by applying to the wrong law schools–law schools which they have no chance of being admitted-- must share some of the blame for this sad state of affairs.

Subject Area

Civil Rights, Legal Education, Legal Profession, Public Law and Legal Theory

Recommended Citation

Alex M. Johnson Jr., "KNOTS IN THE LAW SCHOOL PIPELINE FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR: The LSAT Is Not the Problem and Affirmative Action Is Not the Answer" (August 2008). University of Virginia Legal Working Paper Series. University of Virginia Public Law and Legal Theory Working Paper Series. Working Paper 98.
http://law.bepress.com/uvalwps/uva_publiclaw/art98

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