Cecily Zamora
International law is an interdisciplinary subject concerned with the rules, regulations, principles and practices that govern or inform the relations between international actors, such as nations, international organizations and certain individuals. The scope of international law covers a broad range of topics, including diplomacy, war, trade, human rights and space travel. A degree in international law opens up a variety of career paths, including jobs as a corporate lawyer, policy analyst, policy advisor, mediator, or legal advisor. International law degree graduates can find work internationally, especially if they have studied and gained experience abroad.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Career options | Corporate lawyer, policy analyst, legal adviser, and other jobs in the legal and commercial fields |
| Job locations | International, especially if you study abroad and gain experience in another country |
| Salary | Depends on the nature of the job; corporate lawyer average salary is $127,489 per year, policy analyst average salary is $99,238 per year |
| Job sectors | Regular law, government, international organizations |
| Job growth prospects | Competitive field, but high earning potential |
| Additional qualifications | Master's degree in International Law, internships, publications |
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What You'll Learn
Work for the government or international organisations
A degree in international law can open doors to working for the government or international organisations. This includes working as a diplomat, attorney, policy analyst, or legal advisor.
Diplomats are appointed by national governments or international organisations to create, maintain, or improve relationships with other entities. They engage in dialogue on matters such as culture, economics, trade, conflict, human rights, and sustainability. Language skills and familiarity with foreign governments are advantageous for this role.
Attorneys in international law represent nations or international organisations, handling cases in areas such as immigration, finance, and business. They meet with clients, complete paperwork, provide legal counsel, gather evidence, and present cases in court.
Policy analysts, also known as political scientists, guide sound political policies. They identify existing political concerns, collect data on political issues, analyse proposed solutions, and make recommendations based on their expertise. Internationally, they help governments maintain healthy relationships with other political bodies.
Legal advisors, or in-house counsels, provide legal consultation to organisations, specialising in the field in which their client operates. They draft and fill out paperwork, interpret legal issues and documents, ensure compliance with regulations and laws, and provide legal advice.
Other potential roles for international law graduates in the government or international organisations include judges, corporate lawyers, and chief legal officers.
While a law degree is not always necessary for certain government roles, such as in the Foreign Service, it can be advantageous and open up a broader range of opportunities.
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Practice law internationally
International law is a broad academic subject that covers topics such as war, peace, diplomacy, and rights. A degree in international law can lead to a variety of career paths, including those in the legal field, government, or international organizations.
If you wish to practice law internationally, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the field is very competitive, and getting a job right after graduation may not be easy. It is often helpful to have a post-graduate degree or additional qualifications. Secondly, if you want to work in a specific country or region, you will need to ensure that you meet the legal requirements for practicing law in that jurisdiction. For example, in the United States, internationally educated lawyers must verify minimum legal education requirements, pass the bar examination in the jurisdiction where they will be working, and demonstrate strong moral character and fitness to serve as legal counsel. The requirements for bar admission vary by jurisdiction, so it is important to carefully review the relevant rules and regulations.
One option for practicing law internationally is to work for an international organization such as the United Nations, which offers positions in the field of international law. These positions often involve working on issues such as international contracts, trade agreements, and providing legal advice to clients. Another option is to work as an attorney or lawyer specializing in international law, representing nations or international organizations in areas such as immigration, finance, and business. International mediators are another career path, helping parties resolve disputes without going to trial.
To increase your chances of success in the international law field, consider gaining experience through internships or other opportunities to build your professional network. Additionally, learning a foreign language can be beneficial when applying for jobs that require working abroad or with international organizations.
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Work in global finance
A degree in international law can open doors to a variety of career paths in global finance. Here are some ways you can apply your international law degree in this field:
Corporate Lawyer or Corporate Counsel
Corporate lawyers, also known as corporate counsels, represent corporations and guide them on their legal rights, responsibilities, and privileges. They advise clients on complex business transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions, and handle cases in court. Corporate lawyers also take legal action against entities that infringe on their client's business, such as copyright infringement. This role often involves working with international organisations and navigating international laws and regulations.
Legal Adviser or In-House Counsel
Legal advisers, also known as in-house counsels, provide legal consultation to organisations. They specialise in the field in which their client operates. For example, a legal adviser for a financial institution will likely have a background in finance. Their duties include drafting and reviewing legal documents, ensuring compliance with regulations and laws, interpreting legal issues, and providing advice on legal matters. Legal advisers play a crucial role in helping financial institutions navigate complex regulatory environments and international legal frameworks.
Project Officer
As a project officer, you can find roles in global organisations such as the UN, UNICEF, and WHO, where you will directly work towards the welfare of people worldwide. These organisations often have financial departments or initiatives that require legal expertise. Project officers in finance organisations can be responsible for heading teams, managing finances, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
International Attorney
International attorneys represent clients in court, handling cases that often involve specialisations such as immigration, finance, and international business. They meet with clients to discuss cases, manage paperwork, provide legal counsel, gather evidence, and present their cases in court. International attorneys often work with international organisations and navigate the legal complexities of cross-border transactions and international regulations.
While these are some of the most common paths, an international law degree provides a strong foundation for various roles in global finance. The key is to gain relevant experience, build a strong network, and continuously develop your skills to adapt to the dynamic nature of international law and global finance.
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Draft trade agreements and international contracts
A degree in international law can open doors to a variety of career paths, including those in the fields of trade agreements and international contracts. Drafting such documents requires a meticulous understanding of the relevant laws and regulations, as well as a nuanced approach to navigating cultural and language differences.
International trade is commonplace in today's globalized world, facilitated by technological advancements. However, managing cross-border contracts and agreements can be complex due to the involvement of multiple jurisdictions and legal systems. As an international law graduate, you can play a crucial role in ensuring smooth transactions and mitigating potential risks. Understanding the unique aspects of cross-border contracts, such as trade regulations, customs requirements, and cross-border taxation, is essential for drafting comprehensive agreements.
When drafting international trade agreements and contracts, it is imperative to use clear and concise language. Traditional contract language often contains archaic terms and redundant phrases, which can lead to misunderstandings and even hostility from courts in other countries. Clear language helps ensure that all parties understand their rights and obligations, reducing the risk of disputes. Additionally, being mindful of cultural differences and communication styles fosters trust and strengthens relationships with international partners.
In certain cases, using English as the sole language in contracts might be problematic if the other party is not familiar with it. Some countries, like China and Indonesia, have even declared contracts not written in their official languages as void. To navigate this challenge, consider dual-language contracts or have the parties waive the right to claim invalidity based on language. Alternatively, choose a governing language that both parties are comfortable with or opt for arbitration in a neutral country.
International law graduates can also advise corporations on complex legal matters, including mergers and acquisitions, and pursue legal action against entities infringing on their client's business. Additionally, they can work as in-house counsels, providing legal consultation and ensuring their organization's compliance with applicable regulations and laws.
With a degree in international law, you can find exciting and satisfying career opportunities in drafting trade agreements and international contracts. However, standing out in this competitive field may require additional qualifications or professional experience.
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Specialise in international business law
International law is a broad academic subject that opens up opportunities to work in a regular law career or with the government or international organisations. International business law is a complex area of law that deals with the legal processes governing international business. It covers a range of topics, including corporate law, commercial and investment arbitration, cross-border transactions, financial law, and international tax law.
Specialising in international business law can lead to a career as a commercial lawyer or a legally-minded business manager. It can also be a stepping stone to working in international law firms or multinational companies.
An LLM in International Business Law is a flagship programme for students seeking to specialise in the international legal aspects of business practice. It introduces students to core topics such as international business law, international contract law, international trade law, private international law, European and comparative competition law, and corporate governance.
The degree also covers ethics in international business law, dispute resolution, transnational contract law, competition law, and the law of the World Trade Organization. The curriculum combines core aspects of international business law with contemporary global issues.
International business law degrees are often offered online and part-time, making them accessible to professionals who want to progress in their careers. The specialist knowledge gained from these degrees can enhance CVs and skill sets, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
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Frequently asked questions
Some jobs you can do with a degree in international law include corporate lawyer, policy analyst, policy advisor, mediator, legal advisor, and in-house counsel.
The national average salary for a corporate lawyer is $127,489 per year. The national average salary for a policy analyst is $99,238 per year.
The entry requirements vary depending on the university, but typically you will need an undergraduate degree in law (LLB, Juris Doctor, or equivalent) with a good GPA. Some universities also accept other relevant bachelor's degrees, such as international relations or political science.
A degree in international law opens up a wide range of career opportunities, including the ability to work internationally. It also provides a deep understanding of the legal and cultural systems around the world, making you a global citizen.
