Is Law School Still Worth It in the Age of AI? California's Attorney General Thinks So
California Attorney General Rob Bonta argues that law school remains a worthy investment, even as AI reshapes the legal field. With average costs reaching $217,480 in 2025, Bonta's perspective challenges the narrative that AI diminishes the value of legal education.
Here's the thing: in a world rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, is investing over $217,000 in a law degree still a good idea? California Attorney General Rob Bonta says yes, and he's got a compelling case.
Bonta's Argument for Law School
Rob Bonta, having climbed the legal ladder with a Yale Law degree, insists the education remains invaluable. Despite the intimidating price tag, the average cost of law school was $217,480 in 2025, Bonta believes the skills gained justify the expense. 'I wouldn't think or learn or speak or write the way I do without the training,' he asserts, emphasizing how a law degree equips individuals to impact society profoundly.
He's built his career from private practice to becoming the attorney general in 2021, navigating through student loans by initially delaying his public service ambitions. His journey signals a vote of confidence in the traditional legal path, even as AI threatens to automate tasks typically handled by junior lawyers. So, is the cost worth the real-world impact? According to Bonta, absolutely.
The AI Challenge
But let's not ignore the elephant in the room: AI's encroachment on the legal profession. As software increasingly handles routine tasks, the perceived value of a law degree could be questioned. The legal field isn't immune to technological disruption. With AI tools reducing the need for entry-level jobs, skeptics argue that we're staring at a fundamental shift.
Bonta acknowledges these challenges. His office is actively exploring AI to enhance efficiency, recognizing that while government adoption tends to lag behind the private sector, staying in sync is important. 'We can't be too out of sync,' he notes, reflecting the pressure to adapt and innovate.
The Real-World Impact
So, what's the verdict? The debate around law school in the age of AI isn't purely academic. It's a real-world balancing act between tradition and progress. Law school offers more than just job prospects. it provides a foundational skill set for diverse roles. As Bonta puts it, these skills 'separate job candidates from the pack,' whether they aim for legal careers or other paths.
Yet, as AI becomes more entrenched, the legal sector must adapt. The challenge isn't just technological but requires a rethinking of how we value education and skills. Will law schools integrate AI into their curricula, preparing students for a transformed world?
For Bonta, the future is clear: embracing both AI and traditional legal education is the way forward. The real world is coming on-chain, one asset class at a time, and the legal field's transformation is part of that journey.