Transitioning into IP from science

I would recommend getting some practical experience with the patent law field BEFORE signing up to go to law school, to make sure that a career in patents is right for you. There are at least two good ways to do this:
1) Apply for a job with the USPTO as a patent examiner. Some of the most capable patent prosecution attorneys I've met started off as USPTO examiners. You will really become fluent in the patent prosecution process this way, and then in a few years you can decide to go into private practice as, either directly a patent agent or else by going to law school and becoming an attorney
2) Second option would be to take and pass patent bar and get a job as a patent agent with an IP law firm. If it works out well, you can then go on and apply to law school (if you feel it necessary) and become an attorney.
Either of these two paths will allow you to be sure patents is a good fit for you BEFORE you get yourself on the hook for an expensive legal education. Good luck!