Thus I Became a Lawyer …

This article examines how German legal education and training socialize students into the legal profession. It analyses the state-regulated two-stage system, its demanding examination culture, hidden curriculum and distinctive professional habitus. Particular attention is paid to students’ social background, uncertainty and competition, the relationship between academic study and practice, transferable professional competencies, internationalization and the feminization of law. The article argues that German legal education fosters a strong professional identity and respect for law, but may also reinforce conformity, social homogeneity and conservative professional cultures.