When should I start to prep/take the LSAT if I am planning to go in fall of 2009? What score will I need?

The questions I am about to ask I am sure have been answered ad-nauseum, but there seems to be such an over-saturation of information and opinions that I would rather ask flat-out.

First some background: I graduated last May from the University of Kentucky with a double-major BA in Economics and Finance (3.67 GPA). Since my interest in law was late blooming, I decided to get some experience, so I am now working for 2 years in a big firm in downtown Chicago as a project assistant. My questions are as follows:

1) When should I take the LSAT if I am planning on going to Law School in the fall of 2009? When should I begin preparing?

2) Are LSAT prep classes worth the cost? Which is the best in Chicago?

3) What score should I aim for given my GPA if I am interested in Northwestern, University of Chicago, and UI? Are these even possibilities?

4) Will my experience working in a large firm give me an edge in the application process? When should I start to apply?

Thanks!

That's a lot of questions! Let me give it a shot:

1. Anytime in 2008, typically the earlier the better. Shoot for the June 2008 test, and if that doesn't work for you, look at the October 2008 test. Most law schools use rolling admissions, so the earlier you complete your application, the better your chances.

2. I'm a big Powerscore fan. The material we used in class was really good with lots of drills and practice questions, and the instructor for my class was on the ball. It just seemed very well done and well organized, and it definitely helped me a lot. My score jumped up into the 170s so I was really happy and I felt it was worth more than what I paid. As for other courses, I'm sure there are some good ones so look around and compare.

3. Go to LSAC.com for info on average GPA/LSAT scores for each school ( http://officialguide.lsac.org/ --look for the UGPA/LSAT search). With your GPA, you would still likely need a score in the mid-160s for a decent shot at UI, upper 160's for Northwestern, and 170 something for UChicago. The LSAT is key, so spend a lot of time preparing for it.

4. Yes, for sure. Working in a firm tells the law schools that you know what you are getting yourself into, and it confirms your legitimate interest in the law. As for when to start applying, I found that it is never too early to start working on things like the personal statement and gathering recommendations. The pplications themselves for 2009 won't come out until early fall 2008, so you can't apply until those are out.

Good luck!