Purpose. To analyze, through discussion, the ongoing process of “optimizing” the number of specialties and training areas in the domestic system of higher legal education. Methodology. In the process of writing the following methods were used: analysis, synthesis, system approach, formal-legal. Conclusions. Problems with the quality of education and the number of students arise in the training of lawyers for the civil sector, while it is proposed to “transform” (effectively eliminate) the targeted specialized training of lawyers for the law enforcement sector. Scientific and practical relevance. The study draws the attention of the legal expert community to the problem of reforming Russian higher education, to the search for an optimal model of a truly sovereign, nationally oriented system of legal education.