#USA #Charlotte #Elon University #Charlotte Law #Law Program

Elon University Expands Legal Education in Charlotte

Elon University has made a significant move in enhancing its legal education offerings by announcing plans to introduce a full-time law program in Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city. This ambitious initiative comes as an answer to the growing need for legal professionals in the region and aims to boost access to quality legal education.

On January 13, 2026, Elon University released a statement confirming its application to the American Bar Association (ABA) for approval to launch this new program. Classes are expected to commence in Fall 2027, assuming successful accreditation. With this addition, Elon Law will provide three distinct paths for law students in North Carolina:

1. Full-time, 2.5-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) program in Charlotte
2. Part-time, 4-year Elon Law Flex Program in Charlotte
3. Full-time, 2.5-year J.D. program in Greensboro

Elon University President Connie Ledoux Book emphasized the necessity of expanding graduate and professional programs in one of the country’s fastest-growing cities. She noted that introducing a full-time law program represents a natural progression for Elon Law, reinforcing the institution's commitment to serving the Charlotte community and enriching the available educational programs for regional professionals.

The proposed J.D. program in Charlotte involves a curriculum recognized nationally for its excellence and a robust experiential learning approach. The new program will also bolster the university's expansive law alumni network in a metropolitan area where many graduates practice. As a result, Elon Law aims to enhance its presence in cities significant for legal practice, given the existence of pivotal federal courts and numerous government agencies that play crucial roles in legal services.

The program is anticipated to enroll about 75 students, allowing for strategic collaborations with Charlotte's legal community and the potential for future growth. A distinctive feature of the program is its requirement for students to undertake a full-time, course-connected residency-in-practice during their second year, working alongside practicing attorneys or judges.

Dean Zak Kramer highlighted the program’s community-oriented model, stating, "Elon Law's advantage is that our students learn the law by practicing it in the community." The existing relationships and new partnerships formed through this program will greatly benefit both students and the wider Charlotte community.

Starting in Fall 2027, both Charlotte law programs will likely operate from the Queens University of Charlotte campus, depending on the completion of a planned merger or through a leasing arrangement. Applications for the new program are set to open in August 2026, with formal admission offers contingent upon ABA approval.

Community Support

The expansion has garnered positive feedback from the Charlotte legal community. Sarah Motley Stone, president of the Mecklenburg Bar Association, expressed enthusiasm for the new program, stating it would strengthen access to legal education and meet the needs of the rapidly growing city. The dynamic business environment in Charlotte is fostering new opportunities for legal professionals, making this expansion a timely and strategic move.

Local attorney Dena King also applauded Elon Law for establishing a full-time program in Charlotte. She pointed out the increasing demand for legal services across both public and private sectors in the area, mentioning that the new law school would provide a pathway for aspiring lawyers to earn their degrees locally and effectively integrate into the regional legal profession.

The need for skilled attorneys in Charlotte has been emphasized by Spencer B. Merriweather III, District Attorney for Mecklenburg County. He stated, "A growth explosion in our community requires — now more than ever — an expanded pool of skilled attorneys to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law."

About Elon University School of Law

Elon Law is known for its engaged and experiential learning approach, providing integrated traditional classroom instruction with practical experiences through required residency placements. This distinctive full-time curriculum lasts 2.5 years, ensuring exceptional value through reduced tuition costs while enabling graduates to enter the workforce sooner. Moreover, Elon Law consistently earns accolades, maintaining high rankings for practical training.

The university’s commitment to offering tailored educational programs has positioned it as a leader in experiential learning, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of a global society. With more than 70 undergraduate majors and various professional programs, Elon University continues to prioritize hands-on learning experiences, establishing itself as a premier institution in legal education and beyond.