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Law schools generally ask for a small number of recommendation letters, with academic references preferred for most applicants. The number required and the maximum accepted through LSAC are typically two to four letters, with most schools requiring two or three and the CAS storing several. Requirements vary by school, so verify each one on your list before you submit.
By Ali Unar, JD candidate at Georgetown Law and founder of Lovare Institut. Last updated August 2026. Figures on this page were verified in August 2026 or point readers to the current source.
You typically need a small number of recommendation letters for law school, and LSAC sets a ceiling on how many it will hold and send. The current figures are typically two to four letters, with most schools requiring two or three and the CAS storing several. Most applicants include at least one academic letter in that set.
Yes. LSAC caps how many letters it stores and forwards, and individual schools may accept fewer than that cap. The relevant limits are see the linked source (see the linked source). Sending more letters than a school wants does not help and can dilute your strongest references.
No. You should submit the number that lets each letter stay strong and specific, which usually means meeting the requirement rather than reaching the maximum. Two focused letters from people who know you well beat several thin ones. Add a third only when it brings a genuinely new and credible perspective on your abilities.
Gather enough letters to meet your most demanding school, and keep one extra recommender in reserve in case someone drops out. Prioritize recommenders who can write with specific detail. Starting early ensures you can hit each school's required number without last minute stress near application deadlines.
Law schools generally require a small set of recommendation letters, and LSAC caps how many it stores and forwards. The exact figures are typically two to four letters, with most schools requiring two or three and the CAS storing several. Meeting your most demanding school's requirement with strong letters matters more than reaching the maximum number.
The best recommenders are those who supervised your work closely and can point to concrete examples, such as a seminar professor or a direct supervisor. Recent graduates should include an academic letter, while working applicants can add a manager. Real familiarity with your abilities outweighs a recommender's title or reputation.
Ask early, ideally in person, and check that the recommender can write a strong letter before you count on them. Then send your resume, transcript, a brag sheet, your deadlines, and the LSAC instructions. Giving recommenders time and material leads to specific, detailed letters rather than rushed, generic ones.
Verified August 2026.
August 21, 2026
August 21, 2026