how to work internationally as a lawyer

by Dr. Marietta Treutel 10 min read

How to Be An International Lawyer.

  • 1. Obtain a bachelor's degree. In order to get into law school, you first need a bachelor's degree (4-year degree) from an accredited college or ...
  • 2. Participate in Model United Nations (UN). If you hope to work for an international organization, such as the UN, you might want to get involved in ...
  • 3. Build your foreign language skills. You should start as soon as possible developing your foreign language skills. The more languages you are fluent ...
  • 4. Study abroad. International organizations look to a variety of factors when hiring someone, and experience working and living abroad is one of the ...

Full Answer

Where can I work as an international lawyer?

Jun 05, 2015 · Ambitious lawyers looking to learn the trade need to find ways to differentiate themselves from the crowd. One of the best ways to do this is to develop their profile as an international lawyer. Learn how to be future-proof. Having defined the goal of becoming an international lawyer, we turn now to the obstacles that must be reckoned with.

How do I start a career in international law?

May 10, 2020 · Step 1: Complete an Undergraduate Degree Program in the field Whether it turns out to be a Bachelor of Law and a Master... Step 2: Attend Law School In your home country and in another jurisdiction. Focus on international law: it includes... Step 3: Take the Bar Exam This is the classic step to ...

How can I practice law abroad?

May 03, 2019 · 1. Finding Legal Jobs Abroad Through Secondment 2. Practising English Law Abroad 3. Applying for Offshore Legal Roles 4. Re-qualifying as a lawyer in another country 5. The Pros and Cons of working abroad in the legal sector. Finding Legal Jobs Abroad Through Secondment. Firms offer secondments that typically last somewhere between six months and …

What degree do I need to become an international lawyer?

Dec 03, 2018 · Hiring an International Lawyer. Hiring an international lawyer with experience can greatly affect the outcome of your case. The attorney you hire should have expertise in the relevant field in order to effectively represent you. Additionally, he or she should also communicate openly with you. This includes keeping you up-to-date as the case develops.

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Like a lawyer, you must also pass the bar in the state you plan on teaching in. During this process, keep researching and writing to build up your name and authority on international law and specific topics in that field that interest you. Salary: Pay as a law professor ranges from $38,500 – $75,000. Legal researcher/assistant

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Can you work internationally with a law degree?

There are many opportunities to acquire international experience while a law student— from externing at an international law or policy government office domestically to interning at a US embassy abroad— and even more opportunities for recent law graduates and long-time practitioners to pursue an international career.Jan 10, 2012

How can I work abroad in law?

Applicants need three years of law school or equivalent international experience. The ABA sponsors an International Legal Exchange program for lawyers. Law firms in foreign countries host American lawyers from one to six months. In exchange, foreign lawyers may work in the United States for up to six months.

What type of lawyers work internationally?

Other international lawyers work for corporations with international interests, accounting and consulting firms, financial institutions, government agencies such as the Department of Commerce or the International Trade Commission, Inter-governmental Organizations (IGOs) such as the United Nations and NATO, and non- ...

Can a US lawyer practice in other countries?

Practicing law in a host country depends on local regulations; many countries will not recognize U.S. bar admission. U.S. attorneys may only be able to practice U.S. law or work as an associate with a local attorney. In some countries, there may be no restrictions while in others you may not be able to practice at all.

Can I live abroad as a lawyer?

Practicing law overseas can be challenging but rewarding

Some non-practice factors that also make it challenging include homesickness, language barriers and cultural differences. However, practicing overseas also offers many benefits.
Apr 29, 2021

Can I be an International Lawyer?

To work as a private international lawyer you will usually need: Qualification as a lawyer in a legal jurisdiction. Relevant experience with an international practice area (e.g. relevant seats during your training contract) Relevant language skills, if required.

How much do international lawyers get paid?

The average International Lawyer in the US makes $141,429. International Lawyers make the most in New York, NY at $160,000, averaging total compensation 13% greater than the US average.

Do international lawyers go to court?

On rare occasion, international lawyers also handle cases that go before international courts such as the United Nations' International Court of Justice. These cases involve more serious issues such as war crimes or genocide.Dec 3, 2018

Do international lawyers make good money?

As an international lawyer, one's earning potential is quite good – with an average annual salary of between $110,000 – $131,000, international lawyers tend to earn just as much as most other high-profile attorneys, and are able to secure a steady stream of cases most of the time.

Can an international lawyer practice anywhere?

The truth is, lawyers work in and are admitted to practise in jurisdictions, which by their nature are local. In other words, being an international lawyer is not just another type of lawyer, like an employment lawyer or a criminal defence lawyer.Jun 5, 2015

Can a US lawyer practice in Europe?

It's easier to practice law for an American in a place like Belgium or Germany because they allow foreigners to practice their own law, even though they are resident lawyers in those particular jurisdictions. And they don't have to become qualified under the local law.May 4, 2015

Can American lawyers practice in London?

"Assuming you have a US law degree, to qualify as a solicitor in the UK you must pass a US state bar exam and gain two years of common law practice experience. Then you can complete the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test (far easier than a US bar exam).Sep 29, 2004

What is international law?

Let’s start with the basics: International law is the set of rules, agreements and treaties that are binding between countries. That’s for the definition. As a practical matter, International Law covers three areas:

What is an LL.M.?

An LL.M is a specialized international Master Degree and often allows you to sit the Bar Exam in the country of study. The curriculum of these programs provides in-depth instruction about the chosen subset of international law. So be careful when choosing your program.

What is international law?

“International law” also encompasses “trans-national” law, in which you help entities (like corporations) do deals across borders.

Is international law hard to break into?

International law is one of the hardest fields to break into. If you do not think that you have a realistic chance of getting a job in the field, then you might not want to attend law school unless you are comfortable practicing in other areas of law, such as real estate, criminal defense, or family law.

What languages do you need to work at the UN?

The six official languages of the UN are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.

What is the best GPA for law school?

Not everyone gets into law school. To increase your chances of getting in, keep your grades up. You want to graduate with at least a 3.0, but of course, a 3.5 or 4.0 would be even better. Admissions committees view a high GPA as an indicator that you are a hard worker who is self-motivated.

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Do you have what it takes to secure one of these coveted positions?

Ed. note: Welcome to the latest installment of Better Know A Practice Area, a series introducing readers to different practice areas. Each post is written by an editor at Practical Law who previously practiced in that area and currently writes about it.

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1. Relocating through an internal secondment

Firms tend to offer secondment opportunities to trainee lawyers, typically lasting for a temporary period of 6 months to two years. Aside from client secondments, which take place in-house, the firm may offer you a secondment at one of their international offices.

2. Practising English law abroad

As a qualified lawyer of England and Wales, you can continue to practice English law in a range of other countries. There are English Law practices all over the world, with the Middle East being a popular destination. In locations such as Dubai, most of the work is English-law governed.

3. Applying for offshore legal roles

The law practiced in many Offshore jurisdictions, such as the Channel Islands or the British Virgin Islands, is broadly similar to English law.

4. Re-qualifying as a lawyer in another country

Re-qualification in a completely new jurisdiction is definitely the most challenging option. This process is lengthy and requires a lot of dedication and commitment. You need to start from the very beginning in terms of studying, examinations and training in order to gain the local qualification.

What degree do lawyers need to become an international lawyer?

To widen their career opportunities in the field of international law, some lawyers choose to earn a Master of Laws (L.L.M) degree. This degree gives degree allows for more advanced studies on international law. It also gives lawyers global credibility.

How long does it take to become an international lawyer?

The requirements to become an international lawyer involve seven years of full-time study. Students spend the working towards a bachelor’s (B.S.) degree. Law schools do not require specific fields of undergraduate study, though many aspiring attorneys choose to major in government or history.

What is international law?

International Lawyer. International law refers to the rules and regulations that govern relationships between nations. The law promotes common interests, advancement of peace, and respect for human rights. Unfortunately, disputes arise between entities due to legal, language, and cultural differences between nations.

Do lawyers charge retainers?

Many lawyers require a retainer fee. The client pays the retainer fee up front, and the lawyer places it into a special account to use as he or she works on the case. It is common practice for international lawyers to charge additional fees for services such as filing court documents.

What is the LSAT test?

Students also benefit from focusing on international studies and foreign languages. Before graduating, students must pass the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). This half-day exam assesses analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and reading skills. The score plays a major factor in their admission into law school.

Why do lawyers choose corporate law?

Many lawyers choose corporate law because they have a better chance of building a life outside of work. However, especially for those just starting out, the hours at a corporation can still be long and grueling. This will be especially true once you start working on international issues and travel more.

What is corporate lawyer?

Corporate lawyer. Description: When you work as a lawyer in a corporation, you deal only with that specific company’s legal issues. Corporate lawyers are becoming very busy as companies choose to stay in-house and not reach outside for a private law firm.

What is the ultimate goal of a private law firm?

For many lawyers, the ultimate goal is to make partner, which moves you from salary-based pay to actually owning part of the firm and sharing its profits. If you live in the United States, you’ll find most private firms with international connections on the East Coast. Depending on your language and law skills, you might go overseas to represent your firm. This gives you a chance to explore major cities in other countries and learn more about how the law works in a variety of places.

Do paralegals need a law degree?

Travel to libraries is normal. Analyzing the information you find is also an essential piece of the work. Qualifications: A law degree is not required for paralegals in most areas; an associate’s is often all you need. Excellent research skills are a must; the importance of solid research on cases cannot be overstated.

What is a legal consultant?

Description: Legal consultants (or advisors ) help clients with legal issues outside the courtroom. They do not represent them; they simply give advice. Lots of corporations and law firms will hire these outside consultants during very busy times and/or when they need advice on specific issues like international trade, litigation, policy, and so on. A consultant travels wherever they are needed and sits down with the client to help with research, planning, and more. Frequently, legal consultants used to be practicing lawyers, but decided to make a change.

What is a law professor?

Description: As a law professor, you are responsible for teaching, mentoring students, and publishing articles. This career requires many steps, like participation in a 1-2 year fellowship where you practice teaching, researching, and learning how the academic system works.

What do International Lawyers Do?

International lawyers advise, counsel and represent individuals, organizations, and government entities. By providing their representing party with information in regards to their legal rights, they will recommend the best outcome for their case.

What Should I Study?

As an international lawyer, you will first have to attend a four-year accredited university, as this is the requirement of getting into any type of postgraduate or law school program.

What is the Job Outlook?

Between 2018 and 2028, there is an estimated 6% job growth predicted for lawyers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is very promising for those who want to study international law.

How Much Will I Earn?

The BLS found that the median salary of a lawyer was $$120,910 in 2018, with the highest pay being for those employed by the federal government, at a median wage of $145,160 per year. Those who decide on private practices are known to earn less than those who work for government entities or organizations.

What Are Some Alternative Careers?

If you are someone who is only interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree, there are related professions, such as becoming a mediator, conciliator, and/or arbitrator. In these careers you would still get the opportunity to bring parties to an agreement, while also offering closure to these legal matters outside of court.

What is cultural vistas?

Looking to intern and advance your career in the United States? Cultural Vistas provides thousands of students and professionals every year with the necessary J-1 Visa sponsorship and support to enhance their skills and gain exposure to American business practices and cultur...

How long can Canadians live in New Zealand?

Canadians aged 18 to 35 can experience living in New Zealand for up to 23 months and cover their living and travel costs by getting a casual job. Our New Zealand Working Holiday Program helps you every step of the way to make moving abroad an easy and stress-free experience....

What are the opportunities for a lawyer?

There are great opportunities for lawyers, both law and non-law jobs, working for the U.S. government. Many of the U.S. agencies and departments value legal training even for non-law jobs, and your law degree can set you up for more responsibility and more interesting work than might otherwise be available to you. Agencies to consider beyond the U.S. Department of Justice, that might not otherwise be on your radar include: The U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What does international law mean?

Generally, when we speak about “International Law,” we mean law that functions at an international level – laws that govern the interactions of different countries.

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