The Legal Industry in Delaware
Delaware’s legal sector holds national significance as the go-to jurisdiction for corporate law, with over 3,000 practicing attorneys supporting its status as the legal home to thousands of U.S. businesses. Wilmington serves as the state’s legal hub, home to major firms, corporate legal teams, and the influential Court of Chancery. Secondary markets like Dover, Newark, and coastal communities such as Rehoboth and Lewes sustain a range of niche practices, from real estate and estate planning to regulatory and healthcare law.
Among the most prominent law firms are Richards, Layton & Finger, famed for its dominance in corporate and bankruptcy matters before Delaware’s influential Courts of Chancery, and Morris Nichols, known for high-stakes transactional and litigation work. Other noteworthy players include Ashby & Geddes, Bayard P.A., and international firms like Greenberg Traurig with local offices.
Key practice areas align closely with the state’s economic profile: corporate and equity litigation thrive in Wilmington’s Court of Chancery; banking, fintech, and credit card regulation flourish due to a robust financial-services base; and significant demand exists in bankruptcy and restructuring law, particularly within Wilmington’s federal courts. Healthcare, life sciences, and real estate also support a steady stream of litigation, regulatory, and transactional work.
Is it Difficult to Practice Law in Delaware?
Delaware’s bar admission process is known for its thoroughness and high standards—designed to ensure that only well-qualified candidates enter the profession. While the requirements demand careful preparation, motivated applicants can navigate the process with clarity.
To gain bar admission and practice law in Delaware, candidates must:
- Obtain a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Pass the Delaware Bar Exam, administered biannually in February and July. The two-day format includes 100 MBE questions, two Multistate Performance Tests (MPTs), and eight state essays, with a passing score of 143 or higher (out of 200).
- Pass the MPRE with a minimum scaled score of 85, achieved within the exam cycle timeframe (four years prior or by December 31 following the bar exam).
- Complete a 12-week (full-time equivalent) Delaware clerkship under an attorney with at least five years of Delaware bar experience. This can be spread out part-time during law school and must be verified via an official checklist.
- Submit a comprehensive application, including:
- Dean’s certificate confirming graduation eligibility
- State and federal fingerprint-backed background checks (which may take up to 90 days).
- Character & fitness disclosures, including references, employment history, and any conduct issues.
- Attend the mandatory two-day Pre-Admission Conference hosted by the Delaware Supreme Court before being sworn in.
- Recite the official Oath of Office in open court or a judge’s chambers upon admission.
- Meet ongoing CLE obligations, as specified by the Delaware Bar, to remain in good standing.
Delaware’s admission journey is rigorous but transparent. With ABA accreditation, exam success, clerkship experience, background vetting, and formal orientation, licensed attorneys demonstrate their readiness to serve state clients and institutions. Let me know if you’d like to include examiner contact info or average pass rates!
Discover legal career opportunities throughout Delaware with the support of knowledgeable legal recruiters who understand the state’s unique market dynamics. Whether you’re targeting established firms in urban centers or seeking meaningful roles in underserved areas, the right opportunity may be within reach. Start your search with the Legal Recruiter Directory today.
