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Your Gateway to Chicago's Legal Community for Only $12 a Year!

Membership in The Chicago Bar Association offers law students the opportunity to learn about the actual practice of law through committee participation, seminars, publications, and volunteer projects. Important networking opportunities are also available. So, whether you are looking ahead to your first law firm job or opening your own practice, the CBA is your gateway to Chicago’s legal community.

Committees

A great way to learn more about a specific practice area. Most committees meet monthly during the noon-hour at the CBA and feature expert speakers, legislative updates and case law developments. Committee membership is free, simply join the YLS committees of your choice when you sign-up for membership.  Click here for a list of committees.

Seminars

Take a tour of the state and federal courts, learn about deposition strategies and techniques, or find out how to effectively start your own practice. Over 120 seminars are presented each year, featuring expert speakers and comprehensive written material. Most young lawyer afternoon programs are $60 or less and law student members can attend for half-price. CBA seminars are also available on DVD and accessible online via the CBA website and the West LegalEdcenter.

Popular seminars for students include:

• Trying Your First Case

• Circuit Court Walk Through

• Basic Real Estate Closings

• An Overview of Probate Practice

Publications

Get in touch with Chicago's legal community by reading the CBA's monthly journal (CBA Record), and other legal guides published by the CBA. The CBA's Legal Bookstore, the only legal bookstore in Chicago's loop, features IICLE, Lexis-Nexis, and many other top legal publications. The store also stocks legal novelties, snacks, and more.

Networking

At CBA and YLS activities, meet and network with judges and lawyers who share your interests and concerns. Also, join the YLS at monthly social hours to mingle with other young lawyers.

Career Resources
Get a head start on your job search by exploring our online career center which has access to local and national job ads, a resume bank, career articles, career publications, and career links. The YLS also hosts several career programs each year for law students. These programs include the Law Student Interview Workshop, Meet the Firms Night, Government Service Career Fair, Speed Networking Events, and Lunch ‘n’ Learn Sessions with a Judge.

Savings

Save on car rentals, office supplies, magazines, and more with CBA member discount programs.

Questions?

Call (312) 554-2135.

Please Note: Law student membership is open to law students who are enrolled at ABA accredited law schools or recent law school graduates who are preparing to take the bar exam and/or are awaiting results of the bar exam. Law student membership does not apply to licensed attorneys returning to school. All new admittees in Illinois receive an offer for a free six-month membership which applies to the six months following their admission date. No refunds or pro-rated dues are issued on law student memberships. Please allow two weeks for application processing.