Lincoln is admitted to the Bar

Admitted to the bar in 1837, he moved to Springfield, Illinois that same year and began to practice law with John T. Stuart.

With a reputation as a formidable adversary during cross-examinations and in his closing arguments, Lincoln became an able and successful lawyer.

After studying the law while working in a general store in New Salem, Ill., and serving in the state legislature, Lincoln was admitted to the bar in 1836. Though he soon lost his first case, he became one of the premier lawyers in Illinois.

Unlike other lawyer-presidents whose careers focused largely on politics and other pursuits, Linc oln worked considerably in private practice until shortly before his election.

As a lawyer, Lincoln honed his reputation for honesty. One story involves a client who sent him $25 for his legal services. Lincoln replied with a note: “You must think I’m a high-priced man. You are too liberal with your money. Fifteen dollars is enough for the job. I send you a receipt for $15 and return to you a 10-dollar bill.”