A few people have PM'd me regarding a comment I made about private scholarships so I figured I would post advice regarding finding private scholarships.
Private scholarships exist but you have to put in some effort. Some law school websites will post links to law school related private scholarships, this is only a tiny fractions of scholarships available.
Are you/your parents/spouse a member of a group or organization? Look at that group's website to find out if they have scholarships. My electric company even offers scholarships. Leave no stone unturned. If you don't see a scholarship, email and ask. Think big and small. As an example, if your parent or grandparent was eligible to be a member of the American legion, you can join the Sons of the Legion. Check both the national chapter and local chapter to see if they offer scholarships. Do this with all potential organizations.
Are you/your parents/spouse unique? Are you a survivor? A vegan? ... If so, there may be a scholarship for you. Google your trait, skill, or interest followed by "scholarship." Rember that many national organizations have regional and local affiliates. The search is just the first step in a more detailed search.
Does your/parents'/spouse's employer offer a scholarship? Not sure, ask! I found an awesome scholarship based on my husband's former employer.
What if you find a scholarship but you don't completely qualify? Apply anyway! My mother was on a committee for a scholarship with being a woman as it's main qualifier. The organization existed for women to help women advance. The only applicant to apply was male. He received the full amount allocated. This scenario is more likely when looking within your community for scholarships.
Another option may be group funding. Websites like Gofundme make it easy to solicit money from people. Your friends and family may be willing to chip in. Some people just need to be asked.
Scholarships may exist even when you aren't looking. At a social (non-LS) event, I complimented a person from a law school about their new clinic. I had special interest in the clinic's focus so I was able to talk about why it appealed to me. The next week the Dean of Admissions contacted me to offer a fellowship associated with said clinic. This came completely unsolicited as a result of my vocal interest.
I am suprised at how many people put a huge amount of effort into the application process just to neglect alternative sources of funding. You already have a PS as a potential essay to use for some scholarships.
I hope this helps someone!
