Keith Mack
Studying law abroad is an appealing prospect for many, offering the chance to learn about a different legal system and culture, and providing an opportunity to develop valuable language skills. While a law degree is usually specific to the jurisdiction in which it was earned, it is still possible to use your legal qualifications to work in law abroad. For example, US-trained attorneys often begin their international careers by working for non-governmental or inter-governmental organizations such as the United Nations, federal agencies, or non-profit organizations that benefit populations abroad. Additionally, many large law firms offer their associates the opportunity to work abroad for several years, and some firms hire US law students to start directly in their foreign offices. If you're considering a legal career abroad, it's recommended to gain some international experience and highlight your international qualities on your resume.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you practice law abroad with a law degree? | Yes, but you can only practice domestic law in the jurisdiction in which you're qualified. |
| Can you practice law in a different jurisdiction? | Yes, but you may need to do further study before you can practice there. |
| Can you work in other fields with a law degree? | Yes, many employers see a law degree as applicable to a number of different vocations. |
| Can you study law abroad? | Yes, some universities offer study-abroad options for students of international law. |
| Can you work abroad while studying law? | Yes, many law firms offer their mid-level associates the opportunity to work abroad for several years. |
| Can you work abroad as a fresh law graduate? | Yes, some law firms hire law students to start directly in one of their foreign offices. |
| Can you work abroad without a law degree? | Yes, you can work for non-governmental or inter-governmental organizations. |
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What You'll Learn
International law classes
To enrol in these classes, you must meet the basic entry requirements. At the undergraduate level, you will need grades equivalent to a minimum of ABB A-Level results or an International Baccalaureate score of 34 points. For postgraduate studies, a minimum of a 2:1 in a relevant undergraduate degree is often required. Additionally, proficiency in a second language is beneficial, especially if you intend to work in a country where that language is spoken.
Pursuing international law classes can open up opportunities for externships, internships, and placements in international organisations, government offices, or embassies. It is important to note that to practise law in a specific country, you may need to fulfil additional requirements, such as passing a solicitor's qualifying examination or registering with the relevant representative body in that country.
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International experience
Law students can gain international experience by taking advantage of study-abroad options, such as those offered by Columbia Law School, which include Global Alliance Programs in Amsterdam, Oxford, and Paris, with a curricular specialization in international criminal law, law and finance, or global business law and governance. Students can also gain international experience by externing at an international law or policy government office domestically or interning at a US embassy abroad.
Additionally, students can consider pursuing a master's degree in international affairs simultaneously with their law degree, as well as taking as many international law classes as possible. This can help enhance their marketability in international practice and open doors to work or placements in other jurisdictions.
For those looking to start their careers abroad, it is recommended to first gain some US expertise with a firm that offers the possibility of working abroad. Large law firms often provide opportunities for mid-level associates to work abroad for several years. Alternatively, students can look for positions with large UK-based "Magic Circle" law firms or US-based law firms that hire US law students to start directly in their foreign offices, with London and Hong Kong being the most common starting points.
It is important to note that, unless the firm has a substantial US practice in its foreign office, it may be challenging to use a law degree from one country to work in law abroad. This is because the practice of law is often limited to the jurisdiction in which one is qualified. However, international experience is still valuable for those interested in a degree in commercial law or international criminal law, as it provides an understanding of different legal systems and cultures.
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Language skills
Studying law abroad is a great way to develop your language skills. Language skills are highly desirable qualities in law candidates. While English is widely spoken and can be a useful language to improve upon, it is beneficial to learn the language of the country you intend to practice in. This can help you get admitted to that country's bar and practice law there.
Many English-speaking countries are considered the best to study law in, as they have a long history based on UK 'common law'. These countries, such as the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, offer a Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree that can be completed in as little as three years. The US and Canada, on the other hand, do not offer law programs at the undergraduate level. Instead, they require students to hold a bachelor's degree in any subject before entering law school to gain a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
If you are interested in working abroad, a second language can be very beneficial. It can open doors to work and placement opportunities in that country. For example, many law firms have satellite offices overseas, and knowledge of the local language can be an advantage when working with local companies. Additionally, some countries may require you to take an exam to prove your comprehension of their legal system before you can practice law there.
Furthermore, studying law in a different country can provide you with international experience and expose you to a different legal system. This can be advantageous if you are interested in a degree in commercial law or international criminal law, as the international job market can be complex with different legal systems in place.
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Working for international organisations
International law is a broad academic subject that covers war, peace, diplomacy, and rights. A degree in international law can open doors to a variety of professions, including those with government agencies and international organisations.
International organisations and NGOs are a great place to start when looking for work in international law. The United Nations, for example, posts job openings in the field of international law on their website. When applying for these positions, keep in mind that the job titles may not be directly related to the legal profession, so look for terms like "officer" or "analyst". Additionally, fluency in a second language is beneficial when seeking international work.
It is important to note that, while a law degree from your home country is a valuable asset, you may need to pursue further study to practice law in a different country. This is because the practice of law is typically limited to the jurisdiction in which you are qualified. However, this should not discourage you from seeking international opportunities, as there are many ways to gain international experience while studying law or after graduating. For example, you can extern at an international law or policy office in your home country or intern at an embassy abroad.
If you are interested in working for an international organisation, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, while a law degree is advantageous, it is not always necessary to be a lawyer to work in international law. Secondly, internships are a great way to get your foot in the door, and many interns at international organisations have master's degrees or LLMs from prestigious universities. Finally, consider pursuing a postgraduate degree, as the closer relationship between academics and students can lead to interesting work opportunities.
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Studying abroad
Studying law abroad can be a great opportunity to learn about a different country's legal system and culture, and to develop valuable language skills and international experience. This can be particularly beneficial if you're interested in a degree in international or commercial law, as the international job market can be complex, with different legal systems in place.
If you're considering studying law abroad, it's important to note that law degrees are structured differently in different countries. For example, in the US, law is a postgraduate course, requiring a previous bachelor's degree. This is different from the UK, where law is studied at the undergraduate level. If you're planning to study law in the US, you may want to consider taking the LNAT and creating a strong UCAS application. Additionally, if you wish to practise law in a certain country, you may be required to take an exam to prove your comprehension of the local legal system and join a bar or law society in that country. For instance, to practise law in the United States, you will have to take the bar examination or adhere to the state's specific admissions requirements.
There are several universities that offer study abroad programs for law students. For example, Columbia Law School offers a range of study-abroad options for students of international law, including the Global Alliance Programs, which are created in collaboration with world-renowned law faculties in Amsterdam, Oxford, and Paris. Duke University School of Law also offers international paths for JD students, with many students choosing to work or study abroad during their summers.
If you're interested in pursuing an international legal career, there are several options available to you. You can consider working for non-governmental or intergovernmental organizations, such as the United Nations, federal agencies, or non-profit organizations that work abroad. Alternatively, you can look into private law firms or public service organizations, such as NGOs or international courts. Many large law firms offer their associates the opportunity to work in their foreign offices, particularly those with a significant "US practice". The most common places to start are London and Hong Kong, but students have also started in Tokyo, Paris, and other locations.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to work abroad with a law degree from your home country. However, you may need to pursue further study or qualifications to be able to practice law in a different country. This is because you can typically only practice domestic law in the jurisdiction in which you are qualified.
Studying law abroad allows you to learn about a different country's legal system and culture, and gain international experience. This can be beneficial if you are interested in a degree in international or commercial law, as the international job market can be complex with different legal systems in place.
Take as many international law classes as you can, and consider pursuing a second degree in international affairs or a similar field. Additionally, cast your net wide when looking for opportunities – you don't have to work for an international organization to practice law abroad. Consider externing at an international law or policy government office in your home country, or interning at your home country's embassy in the country you wish to work in.
If you are interested in studying law abroad, it is important to first think carefully about your goals. If you want to gain international legal experience and can see yourself adjusting quickly to a new environment, then studying abroad may be a good choice for you. Consider taking language classes to improve your employability, and look into study abroad programs that offer additional degrees, certificates, and/or internship opportunities.
