Metro Areas in Idaho
The Legal Industry in Idaho
Idaho’s legal market is lean but growing, shaped by its mix of rural and urban dynamics. Boise serves as the central hub, supporting litigation, governmental work, and transactional practices, while cities like Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello host regional courts and local legal demand. Firms such as Holland & Hart (with a sizable Boise presence) and Keller Rohrback draw on multiphase work across the Mountain West.
Key industries fueling legal activity include technology and software, natural resources (mining, timber, water rights), energy and renewables, agriculture, and real estate development. Rising in‐state business and interstate activity also support demand in corporate, environmental, land use, and regulatory law. The employment outlook is steady, with room for growth especially in underserved areas and in areas of specialty.
Is it Difficult to Practice Law in Idaho?
Becoming licensed to practice law in Idaho requires meeting a defined set of criteria. Below is an outline of those requirements:
- Earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent law degree from a law school approved by the Idaho Bar.
- Demonstrate minimum eligibility: be at least 18 years old, lawfully admitted to the U.S., and meet character and fitness standards.
- Pass the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) in Idaho, with requirements governed under Idaho Bar Commission rules.
- Pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) with a minimum scaled score of 85.
- Submit a full application by the deadlines, including transcripts, authorizations, and required fees.
- Reveal all relevant character and fitness information, updating any changes until admission is complete.
- For experienced attorneys from other states, apply for admission by motion (without examination) if you have actively practiced law for at least three of the last five years and meet reciprocal standards.
- Once approved, take the oath, receive a certificate of admission, and comply with continuing legal education (CLE) obligations—Idaho requires 30 CLE credits every three years, including three hours of ethics.
Looking to build your legal career in Idaho? Connect with experienced legal recruiters who understand the state’s growing market. Start your search with the Legal Recruiter Directory today.
