Trinity Law School began in 1980 as the Simon Greenleaf School of Law and later became part of Trinity International University. It adopted the Trinity Law School name as its identity developed within the university.
That history explains two features prospective students should evaluate separately: Trinity's Christian educational mission and its status as a California-accredited, rather than American Bar Association-accredited, law school. The school is based in Santa Ana, California; it should not be confused with Trinity International University's former residential undergraduate campus in Illinois.
Trinity Law School is a specialized law school, not a university with a broad selection of undergraduate majors or academic colleges. Its central professional program is the Juris Doctor (J.D.), the law degree prospective attorneys typically pursue before seeking bar admission.
Students evaluating the curriculum should examine the current catalog for required courses, electives, experiential learning, course formats, and the time allowed to complete the J.D. Those details matter especially to applicants planning to study while employed. A law-related master's credential, where offered, should not be mistaken for a J.D. or a route to attorney licensure.
Trinity Law School is located in Santa Ana, California, in Orange County. Its setting gives students access to a large regional legal market, but a nearby courthouse or employer does not itself establish an internship or hiring arrangement.
Students who expect to attend in person should check the current address and their course schedule before estimating commute time. Travel across Orange County and neighboring areas can vary considerably by hour and route, making transportation a meaningful part of the cost and scheduling decision.
Trinity Law School presents legal education through an evangelical Christian perspective, with an emphasis on integrating faith, legal study, and service. Its religious identity is a substantive feature of the institution, rather than simply part of its history.
Applicants need not assume that a stated mission determines every classroom discussion or student experience. They can assess the fit more concretely by reviewing the current curriculum, community standards, and any faith-related requirements that apply to their program.
Name of the institution
Trinity Law SchoolLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
City: LargeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, graduate with no undergraduate degreesInstitution size category
Under 1,000Trinity Law School is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation confirms that the school meets quality standards and is required for students to receive federal financial aid.
Master's degree
Doctor's degree - professional practiceData last updated on November 2, 2026
Data sources: IPEDS 2024-25, Peterson 2026, College Scorecard 10/2026, Clery 2024 (2023-24), OpenAlex 2026
Figures on this profile come from federal and third-party datasets in the editions listed above and are refreshed periodically, so they may differ from what the institution currently reports. Confirm costs, deadlines and requirements with the school before making decisions.