Interest in US law schools is surging as AI makes payoff less certain

For decades, the American law school has served as a popular hedge against a cooling economy. When the “Help Wanted” signs disappear, the “JD” applications surge.

That’s what is happening now. The number of U.S. law school applicants for the 2026 cycle is up an estimated 17% from last year, according to data from the American Bar Association compiled by the Law School Admission Council. That figure is a staggering 44% increase from just two years ago.