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It is imperative to put forward the strongest application you can when applying to law school. Certain schools have become increasingly selective, while others have turned to seeking various "soft" factors because they acknowledge that they will have to accept lower GPAs and LSAT scores. So, what can you do to ensure you have the perfect application? There are three core mistakes that individuals often make - and that you should avoid.

1. Failing to enhance soft factors
More and more, law schools are touting the soft factors that institutions claim they don't care about. Some schools are focusing upon distinctions such as extracurricular activities or various other achievements applicants have been a part of because they allow universities to differentiate themselves. Discuss the work that you did before law school, as well as how it makes you a better law school candidate. Include a resume and personal information.

Why does this matter? As Big Law hiring decreases, more students pursue positions in smaller firms. Typically, these firms don't solely care about grades in the way that big firms typically do; they care about personality and life experiences, too. The attitude here is that the attorneys hiring you will be desiring someone who brings more to the table than just legal work - they want a personality they can get along with as well. Law schools have begun to recognize that also.

2. Failing to explain negative grades
Every application requires a personal statement. Many will also allow you to write a second statement which you can use to justify any poor grades you may have gotten while in college. This tool allows you to discuss what happened, why, and how it has been corrected. For instance, you could explain an illness that prevented you from attending class, and how for that reason you didn't perform well. Regardless of the reason, the statement lets you paint your negatives in a positive light and describe a situation where you overcame some adversity. This is particularly important to include in your application if you are going to be a splitter - with an LSAT score within, or above, your school's range, but a GPA below it. A word of caution is appropriate here. Do not write anything so condemning that you cannot explain it later; when it comes time to apply for the bar exam, the Character and Fitness Committee will receive your law school application and may ask you about this essay.

3. Failing to disclose information appropriately
While this is technically not a mistake that will hurt your chances of getting into law school, it is a mistake that can hurt your career prospects after you graduate. As mentioned above, your law school will submit your buy custom essay to college or school when you apply. The examiners will review your bar application and compare it to your law school application, looking for discrepancies - if they locate them, you will have to explain the reasons.

It is understandable that you don't want to mention any indiscretions that you may have had in the past. You can explain any incidents in a supplemental statement and the law school application will ask for additional information on the application form itself, but the concern is that just bringing it up is going to draw a focus onto the negative experience. The safe bet is to disclose it anyway. The Bar Examiners will find out about it regardless and it looks much worse if you try to hide it. Everyone understands that these things can happen and that kids make mistakes sometimes. Don't compound those mistakes now, when you are trying to enter a profession that is built on honesty and candor.

Improving your application involves just a little bit of extra effort on your part; the rewards for that slight effort can, however, be huge. It is worth your time to make sure that your application shows a complete picture of yourself - explaining the bad, and also showing how you've grown. These soft factors will make you a more well-rounded candidate, and the type of student that law schools are seeking.