As friends and family of law students, something we can do to help them survive the grueling schedule is buy them a gift. Anything to aid their crazy workload or bring some light relief at the end of a busy day in school or court.
We’ve listed 29 awesome gifts for law students to help you find the best gift, whether you’re seeking something practical, funny, or purely academic.
New to Law? Get prepped here.
29 Best Gifts for Law Students in 2024
In a hurry? Here are our top 3 picks:
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Leather Portfolio
Great for both male and female law students, this attractive full-grain leather portfolio has tough pigskin lining and padded neoprene inserts to protect all contents from water, dust, and nicks.
The size is 13×10 inches, meaning they will have plenty of storage for letter sized and A4 notepads and paper. Included are 2 V-shaped business card holders and 2 pen holder straps.
The medium notebook holder can carry everything you need, with two large document slots and one medium-sized pocket for smaller documents and easier organization.
What we like:
- Tough and durable
- Looks smart and attractive
- Top quality leather
What we don’t like:
- Quite a heavy notepad holder
Leather Portfolio Professional Organizer Padfolio
Best for: Anyone looking for a useful gift for law school students, this could be a great buy as it can help keep all notes and documents in one place.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg Magnetic Dress Up Play Set
This is a hilarious gift to give for law school students or recent law grads! This fridge magnet set allows you to dress up RBG in various outfits including her black robe & gavel, leather jacket and jeans, superhero garb, or even her workout outfit. Men and women alike will love this gift and enjoy dressing up their most popular pop icon.
What we like:
- Fun decoration for the fridge
- Relevant to law school grads or students
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Magnetic Dress Up Play Set
Best for: Anyone looking for a gag gift for feminist lawyers or recent grads.
Planner – Academic Weekly, Monthly, and Year Planner
Being organized is pretty important for law students, and this weekly, monthly and yearly planner can help prioritize the never ending to do list. Made from environmentally-friendly faux leather, this planner is soft to touch. It features 160 quality pages that are long-lasting, as well as an elastic closure, pen loop, inner pocket, and two bookmarks.
Shop more of our favorites in our latest Best Planners for Law Students 2024 guide.
What we like:
- Functional
- High quality paper
- Sleek and simple in design
What we don’t like:
- The journal pages at the end are a bit wasted
2023-2024 Planner - Planner 2023-2024 with Pen Loop
Best for: Those wanting to buy a practical and functional gift for law students to help them keep on top of their hefty workloads.
The Tools of Argument: How the Best Lawyers Think, Argue, and Win
Arguing plays a significant role in law, and for someone interested in the art of argument (like a law student), this book by Joel Trachtman could be exactly what they’re after. It will boost analytical thinking and cement foundational legal knowledge, as well as providing an insight into the powerful tools of arguments throughout the discipline of law.
What we like:
- A good starting point to learn about the art of argument
- Looks at how the same subject can be argued from differing angles
- Relevant to today’s litigious society
- Well organized, succinct, and logical
What we don’t like:
- Concerned with American law – mostly uses American examples
- May not be suitable for more experienced lawyers
The Tools of Argument: How the Best Lawyers Think, Argue, and Win
Best for: Anyone looking to buy a book for first year law students.
Comfortable Wool Loungers
Allbirds has really taking off over the past few years from an unheard-of natural shoe company to one of the premiere natural footwear companies in the US. They have some amazing sneakers made from all natural resources like eucalyptus trees, castor beans, and Merino wool. They’ve expanded their line to include these super cute wool loungers, available for both men and women. Because they’re made from Merino wool, they keep your feet feeling comfortable and cool all day long. These will go perfectly with any law school outfit, as they can be dressed up or down to a student’s liking.
What we like:
- Machine washable makes them long-lasting
- All natural ingredients
- Merino-wool helps to keep your feet smelling fresh
What we don’t like:
- Any Allbirds shoe is going to be pricey ($95+)
- Wool material means these are best suited for cooler days
Allbirds Wool Loungers
These cozy, casual loungers are cushioned enough for all-day support and are designed for easy slip-on-and-go!
Allbirds Trino Wool Socks
If you’re looking to go the extra mile on your gift, consider pairing the Allbirds Wool Loungers with their Trino wool no-show socks. These socks are absolutely luxurious on your feet and are true to the Allbirds brand in being made of all natural resources and carbon neutral! These socks are breathable and made from eucalyptus tree fiber, Merino wool, and recycled ingredients.
What we like:
- Pairs perfectly with the Wool Loungers
- Made in the USA
- Archband adds slip control
What we don’t like:
- Pricey (but worth it!)
Allbirds Ankle Socks
Comfortable wool socks made from all natural resources that pair perfectly with the Allbirds Tree Dashers!
Mantello Valet Tray Nightstand Organizer
Mantello have created this large dresser valet tray, designed to keep nightstands, offices, or dressers organized to make that morning routine less stressful. Made from elegant black leather and white stitching, this valet tray comes with individual velvet-lined compartments to cushion items securely into one place. Great for organizing cell phones, glasses, wallets, coins, keys, jewelry, and more – limiting the time spent hunting for everything needed to walk out that door.
What we like:
- Functional – keeps items organized and tidy
- The charging station for cell phones
- Plenty of space for a range of items
- Looks elegant
What we don’t like:
- Can slide around
- The white bottom can stain easily
Mantello Valet Tray Nightstand Organizer
Best for: Those who need a little help with keeping their possessions in check. This would make a great Christmas gift for law students to make sure their morning routine runs smoothly so they’re never late for school or court.
The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court
An in-depth look into the chambers of the Supreme Court, the most important legal body in America. Acclaimed journalist Jeffrey Toobin delves into the dynamics and relationships between the nine individuals who have the power to define the law of the land, honing in on issues such as abortion and civil rights. By gathering insights from exclusive interviews, Toobin undresses the history of the Court, looks at what the future holds and discusses the machinations of deciding cases within this incredibly complex and powerful force within America.
What we like:
- Readable and accessible
- Overview of relatively recent politics within the Supreme Court
- Provides a backstory to Court decisions
What we don’t like:
- Written from the perspective of one person’s political views
The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court
Best for: Aspiring lawyers. This is one of the best books for law students interested in the history of the Supreme Court and the past decisions they have made.
Body Set by Bravo Sierra
We thought we’d include this body set by Bravo Sierra for those who may be looking for a gift for a law student who pays close attention to his appearance and hygiene. This is an amazing, all natural body set that includes aluminum-free deodorant, sulfate-free body wash, and a deodorant/body spray that comes out in a fine mist. The scent is nature-inspired and does not come across as overpowering. This is an ideal set that can be tossed into a gym bag or taken on-the-go for weekend excursions.
What we like:
- Natural, non-harmful ingredients
- Aluminum-free deodorant
- Fine body mist spray won’t come out too quickly
What we don’t like:
- Fewer scent options for the set
Bravo Sierra Body Set
This amazing sulfate-free body set is infused with notes of pepper, juniper berry, cedar, and cinnamon. This is not your ordinary deodorant and body wash!
BODUM Chamford French Press Coffee Maker
Coffee plays a crucial role in the life of any student and this French press coffee maker provides a simple and quick way of brewing a fresh cup of coffee. The chrome-plated French press is made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass with stainless steel filter parts. It comes in a range of sizes and colors, too.
What we like:
- Stylish-looking coffee maker
- Practical and simple to use
- Easy to clean
What we don’t like:
- Glass is fragile
- Smaller than expected
Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker, 51 Ounce, 1.5 Liter
Best for: Every law student out there... unless they hate coffee!
RBG Quote Mug
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.” An inspirational quote to kick start every law student’s morning off, particularly for the women! This mug is made from quality ceramics, can be microwaved, and is dishwasher safe.
What we like:
- A great quote to get the day started
- Good quality mug
- Easy to clean
What we don’t like:
- Pretty pricey for a mug
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Women Belong in All Places Feminist Mug
Best for: Those wanting a law school gift idea, this could be a practical gift that also sends an inspirational message. Why not buy it with the Bodum French press?
Small Canvas Shoulder Bag
A durable shoulder bag made from high density cotton canvas that can hold up to a 10” tablet, iPad or Kindle, or maybe even some law books! The versatile bag comes with an adjustable shoulder strap and a strong handle at the top, so you can choose how to carry it, and is available in two colors (black and brown). It also has 9 pockets, 8 credit card slots, a pen slot and a ring for a key chain.
What we like:
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Stylish and sturdy
- Lots of pockets to keep things organized
What we don’t like:
- The size is on the smaller side – a standard folder, for example, wouldn’t quite fit in
- It’s not waterproof
Sunsomen Mens bag Canvas Shoulder Bag
Best for: Hard-working law students to cart their books around in - a great law school gift idea that is both practical and stylish.
Related: 7 Stylish Backpacks for Law School
EaseGave Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch
A 15.6 inch laptop tote bag, crafted in Saffiano Grained Eco-leather with reinforced soft foam padding. It comes in a range of colors and has top handles and an optional adjustable shoulder strap, so you can switch up how this ladylike yet versatile bag is carried.
With multi-pockets, 4 large compartments, 2 slip pockets and 1 zip-fastening pocket, it’s ideal for storing all the essentials when you’re out and about – it can fit up to a 15.6” laptop or tablet, files, a wallet, phone…the list goes on!
What we like:
- A great fit for all the essentials
- Sleek and looks stylish
- Practical with lots of compartments to keep things organized
What we don’t like:
- Colors can come out differently to the pictures
- Errs on the expensive side
Laptop Bag for Women, 17 Inch Laptop Tote Multi-Pocket Work Tote
Best for: Those looking to buy a useful gift for female law students that will store everything they need for a day at law school or in court.
Catan Board Game
Originally from Germany, Catan (also known as Settlers of Catan) is an award-winning multiplayer board game that involves plenty of strategy, while still being fairly simple to learn. Players collect resources to build roads, settlements, and cities in order to be the dominant force on the island of Catan. Being a variable board, each game can be a little different from the next, making it something that can be played over and over again.
What we like:
- Simple to learn
- Optional add ons (extensions and expansions) and variations that can add more to the game
- Good replay value
What we don’t like:
- Can take some time to play (sometimes up to 2 hours)
- Some gamers believe it relies too much on luck
Catan Board Game (Base Game)
Best for: Anyone looking for a fun gift for law students in need of a study break.
Wowbox Messenger Bag
A unisex vintage messenger bag made of canvas fabric, with reinforced handles to add to the durability and an adjustable shoulder strap. The distinguishing feature of the bag is that it looks vintage, with scars and scratches in the leather.
This bag’s main storage compartment can fit a laptop of up to 17″ the 2 large front pockets can fit a device of a similar size to an iPad Mini and the smaller pockets are great for phones, wallets and chargers.
What we like:
- Durable handles designed to last and wide comfortable strap
- Retro and vintage look
- Can fit larger devices, like a 17” laptop
What we don’t like:
- Could benefit from some more interior padding
- Exterior leather marks easily
Vintage Handmade Leather Messenger Bag
Best for: A gift for a future law student needing something practical to carry all their school essentials, including note books and a laptop.
Sofia + Sam Oversized Memory Foam Lap Desk
This portable workspace is designed to help you work and study comfortably from a chair, sofa, or even in bed! It fits large laptops (up to 20”) and would also work well for reading and writing. The lap desk has a memory foam cushion for added comfort and support.
What we like:
- Comfortable wrist pad
- Sturdy surface
- Looks smart
What we don’t like:
- It says it can fit a 20” laptop, but although this size laptop may fit, there wouldn’t be space for much else, like a mouse
- Quite heavy
Sofia + Sam Oversized Memory Foam Lap Desk for Laptops
Best for: Hard working individuals who want to be comfortable wherever they’re studying - could be one of the best gifts for law school students, who are forever reading, writing and studying.
Related: Shop the 4 Best Laptops for Law School
A Little Pampering
For most, law school means a lot of student loans and living below-their-means for a bit. That’s where it’s your turn to step in a bit! You can gift the law student a bit of luxurious skin pampering. We like this hand cream gift set (which, by the way, has been recommended by Oprah).
What we like:
- 12 different hand cream scents
- Luxurious, thick hand cream for all skin types
What we don’t like:
- It’s expensive
La Chatelaine Deluxe Hand Cream Gift Set Tin
Best for: a law student who skews more brand and beauty-conscious.
Scalia and Garner’s Making Your Case: The Art of Persuading Judges
For those who want to succeed in arguments and catch the judge’s attention, this sharp and witty book could be right up their alley. It serves as a guide for both novice and experienced lawyers alike, covering important ideas about judicial persuasion. Written in a fresh and entertaining way, this book breaks down how to speak and write persuasively, including the foundations that underlie any argument and the vitals of sound legal reasoning.
What we like:
- An enjoyable and entertaining read with humorous interjections
- Clear and concise, with well-structured arguments
What we don’t like:
- Written for American readers
Best for: Those of you searching for the best book for an aspiring lawyer or a book for a first year law student.
Making Your Case: The Art of Persuading Judges
This novel is clear, with useful and detailed advice on how to write and speak well.
YETI Rambler Vacuum Insulated Tumbler
A reusable and stylish travel mug, great for those law students needing coffee on the go – which is all of them! Made of stainless steel, this tumbler can hold up to 590 ml of liquid and the magslider lid means you don’t have to worry about splashes. It can be used to keep beverages ice cold or piping hot due to its double-wall insulation. It’s BPA-free, is easy to clean, and is dishwasher-safe!
What we like:
- Comfortable to hold
- Great finish and sleek style
- Washes well
- Fits in standard sized cup holders
What we don’t like:
- Not completely leak proof – the lid can spill
- On the expensive side for a travel mug
Best for: All law school students! This is another gift that would pair well with the Bodum French press – perhaps as a combined Christmas gift for a law student.
YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler, Stainless Steel
This Yeti insulated tumbler is perfect for on-the-go healthcare professionals who need to keep their bevvies hot/cold.
Herschel Supply Co. Little America Backpack
Looking to buy a practical bag as a gift for a law student but after something different from the typical messenger bag or satchel? How about a backpack? Made from synthetic leather, this water-resistant bag features a padded and fleece-lined 15” laptop sleeve, a drawstring closure and adjustable carrying straps. The various other compartments are suitable for items like a notebook, mouse, headphones, and everyday essentials.
What we like:
- Plenty of space for a laptop and other items
- Good padding and comfortable to wear
- Water resistant
What we don’t like:
- Shoulder strap on the fragile side
- Colors don’t always match the advertised pictures
Best for: Those lawyers in need of a bag that has plenty of space to carry their essentials – could be a great gift for any law school student.
Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack, Classic 25.0L
A stylish backpack and great tool for organization, this bag is a must-have for students.
Dryden Luxury Fountain Pen
This elegant Dryden fountain pen makes a statement every time it’s used as it oozes sophistication and comes in a range of metallic colors. With the perfect weight to comfort ratio, hours of uninterrupted high precision writing, without any strain to wrists or hands, can take place. It comes with a medium-sized nib designed to dispense a steady and smooth flow of ink from all angles.
What we like:
- Suitable for left and right-handed writers
- Feels solid in your hand and writes smoothly
- Good price
- Attractive metallic finish
What we don’t like:
- It doesn’t come with ink
- The cap doesn’t always stay on the back of the pen while writing
Best for: Students in need of a comfortable pen that writes smoothly for all those class notes. This could be a good gift for first year law students to help them kick start their law school with style and sophistication.
Dryden Designs Fountain Pen
Writes Like A Dream - Designed to be well balanced, you do not have to press down hard to begin to write.
The New Yorker Book of Lawyer Cartoons
A humorous take on the legal profession consisting of 85 cartoons straight out of the pages of The New Yorker. Written by an array of critically acclaimed cartoonists, including Leon Cullum, Steig and Addams. A less serious book for law students to enjoy!
What we like:
- An enjoyable and light-hearted book
- A fun gift
What we don’t like:
- The book is small, so some of the details are hard to see
Best for: Anyone looking for a stocking filler or just a funny gift for law students.
The New Yorker Book of Lawyer Cartoons
Here's a unique bar gift for a lawyer that could be pleasantly surprised by this small yet witty book.
Executive Gift Shoppe Personalized Business Card Holder
This lightweight business card holder can be easily thrown into a bag, briefcase or kept in a pocket, meaning your business cards are always at hand to be handed out. With a two-tone polish and satin finish, this card holder is not only durable but looks elegant, leaving a great impression for whatever the occasion. The business card holder can also be personalized, making it an even more special gift and the perfect companion for any law student or lawyer.
What we like:
- Free personalization
- Packaged in a gift box
- Sleek and elegant
What we don’t like:
- Can only hold 15 cards at a time
Best for: People wanting to buy the perfect gift for law students, especially gifts for aspiring lawyers about to graduate from law school and start their legal career.
Executive Gift Shoppe | Personalized Business Card Holder
The perfect gift for any professional, associate, college graduate, and so many others.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Pillowcase
This fun and beautifully-designed pillowcase features a vibrant print of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This pillowcase is machine washable and ready to decorate any living room or bedroom.
What we like:
- Fun and colorful
- Good quality
- Soft back to the pillow case
What we don’t like:
- The opening to the case is quite small
Best for: Those looking to buy a funny gift for law students. This could also be a novelty gift to go alongside Ginsburg’s book (My Own Words) and the Ginsburg mug!
My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Written from the perspective of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, this New York Times bestselling book offers a glimpse into the mind of a fascinating individual. Ginsberg is renown as one of our generation’s most influential voices in both law and public opinion. This comprehensively written book covers a vast range of topics, including gender equality, the workings of the Supreme Court, being Jewish, and interpreting the US constitution.
What we like:
- An inspiring read
- A good and comprehensive insight into one of the Justice leaders
- Clear and well-written
What we don’t like:
- It’s not a typical memoir, more of a collection of writings, speeches and accomplishments
- A bit dry in places
Best for: Anyone looking for an interesting book for law students, written from the perspective of an influential female Justice.
My Own Words
Everyone can enjoy this witty, engaging, serious, and playful collection of writings and speeches from the woman who has had a powerful and enduring influence on law, women's rights, and popular culture.
The Original Rider Waite Tarot Pack
This Tarot pack contains 78 Tarot cards and a book entitled “A Key to the Tarot.” The book gives a brief description on the ‘meaning’ of each card and an example of how they should be used. If you’re new to Tarot or just want to dabble in some readings, this is a simple and ‘tame’ pack of cards with inoffensive interpretations. Will the law student’s road to success be bumpy or smooth? Will they become the next Supreme Court Justice? What will the Tarot cards say…?
What we like:
- A useful guide on how to interpret the cards
- Simple to learn for those new to Tarot reading
What we don’t like:
- The coloring isn’t as good as the originals
- Maybe not for seasoned Tarot readers
Best for: Those looking for a more unusual gift for law students, perhaps as a distraction from all the hours of studying!
The Original Rider-Waite Tarot Set
The innovative cards, including the 56 Minor Arcana, depict full scenes with figures and symbols.
Law School in a Box: All the Prestige for a Fraction of the Price
A complete legal education in a box – if you’re after a fun, yet educational, gift for a law student, this could be a great option! The metal box contains a comprehensive textbook (Law School in 96 Pages), 10 heroes of the courtroom trading cards, 10 extra credit flashcards, a bar exam trivia challenge, and a rolled college diploma with real Latin words. A cheap alternative to an Ivy League education!
What we like:
- A great stocking filler
- Witty and funny items
- Insightful look into recent important court cases
What we don’t like:
- Not much longevity – maybe more of a one hit wonder
Best for: Those looking for a fun gift for future law students, but want something that will benefit them educationally too.
Law School in a Box: All the Prestige for a Fraction of the Price
This is best for anyone trying to find a novelty gift for future lawyers - they may have just finished their law education, but there’s always more to learn!
1l of a Ride: A Well-Traveled Professor’s Roadmap to Success in the First Year of Law School (Career Guides)
The first year at law school is crucial, and the road to success can be tough. A recommended reading by law schools throughout America, this guide breaks down how to achieve both academic and emotional success during this crucial period. Written in an accessible and readable first-person voice, this book combines anecdotes, comments from law students (including their top fears), exam questions and strategies, student case-briefs and class notes, and even how to maintain well being during this intensive year, plus much more.
What we like:
- A great first year guide for law students
- Insightful glimpse into all aspects of law school life
- Comprehensive yet witty
What we don’t like:
- Some of the advice is quite obvious and more common sense
Best for: Anyone considering a gift for first year law students, this book is perfect to prepare them for their L1 journey.
1L of a Ride: A Well-Traveled Professor's Roadmap to Success in the First Year of Law School
Told in an accessible first-person voice, covered topics in this updated and expanded fourth edition include pre-planning, top student fears, the first-year curriculum, the Socratic and case methods of teaching, effective class participation, the top habits of successful students, essential study techniques, legal research and writing, exam strategies, maintaining well-being, online learning, career planning, and much more.
Accoutrements Shakespearean Insult Badges
A gimmicky and fun gift for law students, and another potential stocking filler, these novelty Shakespeare plasters come in assorted sizes and with a range of “Shakespearean” insults.
What we like:
- Humorous
- Quirky
- Durable and long-lasting plasters
What we don’t like:
- Expensive as far as plasters are concerned
- You can’t read the insults until the plasters are used
Best for: People wanting to buy a funny gift for law students at Christmas time!
Amazon E-Gift Card
Amazon gift cards are a great gift and the perfect way to give someone the exact gift they want. This gift card can be emailed directly to the participant, making it a great way to send gifts to students from afar or last-minute gifts where you can’t wait the days it takes for delivery. These gift cards have no fees or expiration dates and are redeemable towards millions of items.
What we like:
- The recipient can choose something they want/need
- An all-around crowd pleaser
- Digitally sent to recipient
What we don’t like:
- This seems a bit less personal
Best for: Anyone unsure about what gift a law school student would want or can’t decide on a gift for a law student who seems to have it all!
Amazon.com eGift Card
What's not to love about getting an Amazon Egift card? This is a fantastic last-minute gift with no delivery time.
High Protein Fitness Box
These high protein snacks are great for the fitness enthusiast. With well-known and recognized brands such as Lenny and Larry’s, Rx Bar, Mamma Chia, and Bite Fuel – this soon-to-be-lawyer will think that you broke the bank for their special treats!
What we like:
- Savory and sweet options
- High in protein
What we don’t like:
- Not keto
- Not vegetarian
Best for: Pretty much all law students. In-between lectures, the library and court, a high protein snack could give them that energy boost they need.
High Protein Fitness Snack Box
Savory and sweet high-protein snacks are just a click away.
Buying Tips for Law Student Gifts
There are a number of things you should think about before buying a gift for a law student:
What to Look for
When considering buying a gift for law students you may want to think about what they will get out of the gift. They don’t have a huge amount of spare time on their hands, so getting them something they will actually use is key. Will it help them keep up with the workload at law school? Will it support them to study effectively? Will it enable them to plan and organize their busy schedule and everyday life? Will it provide some light relief or amusement from all those hours spent studying?
These are the sorts of questions you should be asking yourself when looking at a gift. If you can answer yes to any of these questions, you’ve probably stumbled across an excellent option for that aspiring lawyer friend/family member of yours.
Law School Gifts FAQ
How Much Should You Spend on a Gift for Law Students?
If you’re after a gimmicky and fun stocking filler, you probably don’t want to be spending more than $20-25. For other more functional gifts that you hope will last a long time, you should probably make sure that you’re thinking about the quality of the gift and your relationship with the recipient – but there is not necessarily a cap on this.
Practical or Funny? Which Makes a Better Gift?
This boils down to your relationship with the student. A lighthearted or fun gift works best for people you may be less close with or who you share a specific inside joke with. A more heartfelt or expensive gift is best for those that you know very well.
Best Gifts for Law Students – Final Thoughts
Whether you end up buying a law student a practical or funny gift, rest assured that receiving a gift is always a wonderful experience, and is pretty certain to put a smile on their face. If you’re still unsure, an Amazon gift card can do no wrong!
