This qualitative study investigated the role of competition in the success and distress of law students. Participants from an Australian law faculty attended one of four focus groups (undergraduate, postgraduate, academic staff and administrative staff). They discussed their perceptions of competition, the competitive behaviours in law students, the purpose of competitive behaviour and its psychological and learning consequences and the contributing and discouraging factors of competition in law students. Competition was perceived by staff and students to be widespread and included antisocial and manipulative behaviours. The goal of competition was seen to be "the best" and obtain "the best" job upon graduation. Competition had a significant impact on the well-being of students, and implications for the structure of law programmes are discussed.