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I graduated in May 2020 with a 3.87 gpa from my degree-granting institution and had a 4.0 for two years prior to transferring there. 10-15 years ago, I was dealing with an abusive relationship and dropped many community college courses after the deadline, in addition to getting W's. My LSAC GPA is a terrible 2.99 and I have a 170 LSAT. I am a URM and a mother of two. I was super involved in college and have great references. My question is: do I stand a good chance at any T20 law school? Or at UC Irvine? I live in So Cal and for so many reasons staying here works well, but I would be open to making a move if the opportunity presented itself. Are there any schools which are generally friendly to lower GPA's with a strong upward trend? Thank you for your time!

I'd write an addendum explaining the GPA. I think you've got a shot at the T20 (i'd apply to most of them and the T14 cause you never know who will bite and get fee waivers). I think you'll get a scholly at UC Irvine. Best of luck.

I hate to say it, but 2.99 is tragic because being below 3.00 is a meaningful problem at UCs.

But I agree that your T20 and even T14 chances are viable. USC in particular seems like a sweet spot.