One of the first independent (non-university affiliated) law schools established in the U.S., the John Marshall Law School is named after 19th century Chief Justice John Marshall (and not affiliated with the law school of the same name in Atlanta). Academically, the law school focuses on legal writing and trial advocacy, emphasizing practical skills rather than legal theory. Its Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution runs a specialized advocacy curriculum, as well as organizes an accelerated 10-day trial advocacy program during winter and summer breaks. Intellectual property is another academic emphasis of the school.

John Marshall Law School's JD curriculum is geared towards litigation and writing, and requires that students complete small section lawyering skills courses over four semesters. Once students complete the required courses, they can participate in certification programs in advocacy, elder law and intellectual property. Students may also get a joint JD/LLM, choosing from a number of concentrations in areas such as employee benefits and real estate. Notably, John Marshall's LLM in employee benefits is the only one in the country.

A high percentage of Marshall Law graduates go into government work--18 percent from the class of 2007 alone. In general, students in Vault's surveys report that employment prospects are best in state and particularly in Chicago.