why is important to a lawyer how many languages a person can speak

White & Case's graduate recruitment partner Gareth Eagles points out: “Language skills help our lawyers a lot – when deals happen to involve people from the relevant places, they can speak to them in their local language, potentially saving time and cutting to the chase on a given point, or helping them form useful relationships.”

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How many languages should you know to become a lawyer?

Knowing at least one foreign language can also enable you to broaden the scope of your work, says Gabriel Helou, legal officer at the Norwegian Refugee Council and former project manager in the rule of law and justice sector at the EU delegation in Jerusalem.

What are the top languages lawyers are hiring for?

Some law firms go so far as to directly advertise for specific language capabilities, with the current desired fluencies ranging from Italian to Mandarin and Arabic to Korean. “We have a ton of Italian clients so people with fluent Italian can certainly put their skills to use,” a trainee at one global law firm reported.

How important are language skills in the legal profession?

“In our profession, language skills are critical because, as international lawyers, we apply our trade with words. It is certainly something I look for when I recruit, if a candidate is not fluent in other languages I generally would not consider them – if I do it’s usually for a discrete assignment,” he says.

What languages do law graduates speak?

There are many graduates whose love of languages directed them towards certain law firms. “I speak English, French and Arabic and have lived in a bunch of countries,” one White & Case trainee explained.

Do lawyers need to know more than one language?

It's a Question of Opportunity But even if a foreign language isn't necessary for a practice, multilingual lawyers simply have more opportunities as a result of their ability to communicate to a wider range of people.

Why is language important in law?

Words are the essential tools of the law. In the study of law, language has great importance; cases turn on the meaning that judges ascribe to words, and lawyers must use the right words to effectuate the wishes of their clients.

Why is it important to speak multiple languages?

It improves your memory Learning a new language pushes your brain to get familiar with new grammar and vocabulary rules. It allows you to train your memory to remember new words, make connections between them, and use them in contextual situations.

What language is most useful for law?

According to the State Department, Mandarin is a critical language. Other languages that are important for aspiring lawyers and other job seekers are German, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, French, Arabic, Hindi and Russian.

How is language related to law?

Laws coded in language & Legal concepts are accessible only through language. Interviews of Police officers and cases in courts takes place through language. The relationship between partners in contracts is also taken care of by language. Law exerts its control through language.

What are the rules of language in law?

There are three main rules of language:Ejusdem generis. This rule states that where there is a list of words which is followed by general words then the general words are limited to the same kind of items as the specific words. ... Expressio unius est exclusio alterius. ... Noscitur a sociis.

What are the benefits of speaking another language?

Here are just a few of the possible benefits of learning a new language.Learning a new language improves your memory. ... Being bilingual makes you a better multitasker. ... Knowing other languages encourages cultural appreciation. ... Speaking other languages makes you a better communicator (in your native tongue too!)More items...

What are the benefits of knowing more language?

Learning another language also provides many other benefits including greater academic achievement, greater cognitive development, and more positive attitudes towards other languages and cultures. Simply put, language learning is necessary for students to effectively function in the modern global marketplace.

Which language is most spoken in the world?

The most spoken languages in the worldEnglish (1,132 million speakers)Mandarin (1,117 million speakers)Hindi (615 million speakers)Spanish (534 million speakers)French (280 million speakers)Arabic (274 million speakers)Russian (258 million speakers)Portuguese (234 million speakers)More items...•

Is French useful for lawyers?

French is also useful for EU and Competition law as French (along with English and German) is one of the three working languages of EU institutions (particularly as French is spoken in Brussells). French is also a useful (but not necessary) language if you want to get involved with international arbitration.

Is Spanish useful for law?

Being fluent in Spanish makes you extremely employable. International law firms are likely to have offices and clients in Spanish speaking countries, so an ability to speak the language will make you an extremely attractive candidate for a training contract.

How does speaking a second language help you?

For example, speaking a second language can put you ahead of the game when it comes to overseas seats. Some firms have strict language requirements – ranging from A-level proficiency to fluency – which dictate who can go where, while others merely list them as a preference. Even where language requirements aren't specified, those skills can still come in handy when seat allocation becomes competitive. As one unlucky trainee at a City firm revealed: “Paris was my first choice for an overseas seat but it was very popular. I missed out because my French skills weren't as good as others'.”

Is it good to be bilingual in law?

While it's un likely you'll ever find yourself outnumbered and facing the Klingons, it's a good bet that if you're bilingual or multilingual, at some point in your legal career languages are going to work to your advantage. White & Case's graduate recruitment partner Gareth Eagles points out: “Language skills help our lawyers a lot – when deals happen to involve people from the relevant places, they can speak to them in their local language, potentially saving time and cutting to the chase on a given point, or helping them form useful relationships.” Those are probably the most obvious use of languages in an increasingly international legal profession but there are certainly a raft of other benefits to knowing the local lingo.

Is learning a foreign language practical?

Learning a foreign language does not just have practical applications. It also proves that you can acquire a new skill quickly and proficiently.

Do law firms send trainees abroad?

That said, many firms are happy to send their trainees abroad with little or no language experience – “my French doesn't go much further than asking 'où est la plage?'” one Paris-based interviewee at an English firm admitted. Several law firms even provide language lessons for trainees but these tend to be limited to helping you survive socially: it's worth knowing a few words to help your integration into a foreign office. “It's become so much easier to forge good relationships with colleagues as my French improved,” one White & Case source claimed. Outside the office it always helps to be on the same page as the locals: “I was the only fluent trainee in our friendship group so I used to bail everyone out of misunderstandings in restaurants!”

What languages were used in the court system?

English was often used by regular people as the vernacular, but Latin and French were the “prestigious” languages used in the government and the court systems. If you were to attend a trial in the 16th century, you would have heard a combination of Law Latin and Law French.

What is the official language of England?

To use a language example, the official language of England is de jure English, because there’s a national law to make it so. In contrast, the official language of the United States is de facto English because, while it’s not written into law, English is used as any official language would be.

Why is it impossible to disentangle English law from Latin and French?

Because of how specific legal language became, it was impossible to disentangle English law from Latin and French. You would’ve had to create a whole new vocabulary, which lawyers set in their ways weren’t too keen on. Looking at lawyer jargon today, you can clearly see how French and Latin are still in constant use.

What is arbitration in law?

Arbitration — a private process for resolving disputes outside of the courts. A neutral third party hears the evidence of the case and makes a decision.

Where does the word "law" come from?

Law — it may be a stretch to call this “lawyer jargon,” but it’s fun to note that law actually doesn’t come from French or Latin. It comes from the Old Norse lag.

When did English become the official language of England?

It wasn’t until 1730 that English was made the official language of law throughout England. By the time English was the official language of law, Latin and French had already lodged themselves deep within the legal system. Law Latin and Law French are distinct from their non-legal predecessors. Even when Law French was in common practice in ...

Is English law a language?

A Brief History Of The Language Of English Law. The phrase “the language of English law” might sound redundant, but it’s not. The “English” here just refers to “of England.”. That’s because for a centuries, English law didn’ t use the English language . Yes, it’s a little confusing.

What is it called when you can speak more than one language?

Being able to speak more than one language fluently is an impressive skill – but how about those that can speak in lots of different languages with ease? Someone who can speak in multiple different languages (typically five or more) is called a polyglot.

What part of the brain is responsible for language?

The part of the brain responsible for language is called the Broca’s area . This is a region of the brain in the frontal lobe of the dominant hemisphere of your brain.

Who was the German diplomat who learned 65 languages?

In 2004, scientists were able to examine the brain of a German diplomat, Emil Krebs (1867-1930) who learned and spoke 65 different languages in his lifetime. They wanted to confirm whether his language skills were due to a unique brain structure or not.

Is it easier to learn a new language?

From the Lund University study though, it’s clear that those who are learning new languages then find it easier to pick up additional languages and expand their linguistic knowledge much easier than those without that background.

What do lawyers need to know?

Remember, you are the one who is a legal professional, meaning that you need to have the ability to communicate complicated legal concepts in simplified terms. Your communication skills can help you ensure your client and the jury understand what you are trying to tell them. Likewise, much of this role involves written correspondence, meaning you need to be an effective writer.

What is the role of a lawyer?

Rather than giving in to what the other side of the courtroom is saying, you need to be the kind of person who is willing to argue for what you believe in. You need to think of arguments that are going to be favorable for your client and ways to present them in a persuasive way.

What are the qualities of a lawyer?

Lawyer qualities are the skills and characteristics you need to become a successful legal professional. In order to help your clients and provide quality legal services, you need to possess a certain set of qualities. This challenging yet rewarding career is more ideal for some individuals than others. Along with being intelligent, successful lawyers need to have the ability to be persuasive in the courtroom. You need to be someone who is confident in yourself and your ability to represent a client or business entity.

What do you need to present to a jury?

When presenting your case to the jury, you need to show them that you are confident about your client's stance. Being a lawyer also requires public-speaking skills which require a great deal of confidence. You need to be able to eloquently present evidence and arguments for your client.

Why do lawyers need to stay driven?

Lawyers need to stay driven throughout the entire process to ensure they are serving their clients to the best of their ability. This drive can help you look at a case in a new way and find better outcomes.

How long does a court case last?

Court cases can last from months to even years. Your patience ensures you can stay motivated throughout this long, complicated process. Being patient also can help you continue to act professionally in and out of the courtroom. This quality is also helpful if you have a client who is eager to learn their verdict, as you may need to inform them of the length of this process.

How to keep your emotions balanced in court?

Although it's important to show you are passionate about a case, you still need to keep your composure in the courtroom. Showing a sense of respect and professionalism to the judge and other individuals involved in a case can help your client's position and improve your reputation as a lawyer.

Why do modern languages survive?

Most modern languages, the ones that survived managed to do so because many people learned that language even if it wasn’t their native tongue.

Why do recruiters like people with more languages?

Job recruiters like people with more languages because this can help in international projects.

Why is it important to communicate clearly with clients?

Being able to communicate clearly with clients in a language they understand ensures there are no misunderstandings, everyone gets what they want, and builds a stable business relationship.

Why is learning a second language important?

Of course, to make leisure travel easier isn’t the only reason why learning a second language is beneficial. If you travel for business or want to work abroad, being able to speak a second language is also beneficial. Being able to communicate with people from around the globe is becoming more and more important in business.

How to get ahead in a world that is requiring more and more that you learn to get along?

If you want to get ahead in a world which is requiring more and more that you learn to get along and interact with people of different cultures, you need to start learning how to effectively communicate in more than just your native language.

What is the means by which humans communicate?

Language is the means by which humans communicate, it can be either oral it written.

How did people pick up languages?

Even back in the days of tribes, the way that people picked up languages by conversing with people who spoke them.

Why do clients hire lawyers?

Clients hire lawyers because they have a rapport with them. Be honest and give your client all the knowledge and help that you can. Give her a reason to trust you.

What are the communication skills covered in law school?

Communication skills covered in law schools tend to revolve around the arguments and persuasion necessary in the courtroom. However, communication skills that occur outside of the courtroom are much more plentiful and, sometimes, more critical to a lawyer’s practice.

When do clients seek out legal advice?

Clients customarily seek out legal advice when something negative is happening in their lives. Therefore, it is important for you to know when to be a traditional lawyer and when to be more empathic.

How to get a client to pay for your time?

Your client is paying for your time, so give him all of your attention. Have your receptionist hold your calls. Meet in a place that is quiet enough to talk privately. Make sure you have everything you need with you so you won’t have to leave the meeting room to get additional materials.

What is Richard's greatest struggle with language learning?

Richard notes that his greatest struggle with language learning is time. Along with juggling his day to day responsibilities of parenthood, work and university study, he feels there never will be enough time to learn all he wants in life, but he will continue on with his language learning until his body can no longer take it.

Why is the Guinness Book of World Records no longer awarded a place to the person who can speak the most?

This is likely due to general confusion on the definition of fluency – and how difficult it is to test the claims of polyglots.

What was Steven King's breakthrough in language learning?

His breakthrough in language learning came at the age of 10, when his mother hired an American tutor who guided him through the English language, rather than just teaching it. He found that he had the greatest success through reading and being OK with making mistakes – taking up the ultimate challenge of completing Steven King’s novel “It” in English, despite his learning level at the time (and age!).

Why did Alex learn Greek?

Immersion has been a key factor in his success. His first language was Greek, which he began learning due to his heritage – growing up with a Greek mother. As a keen traveller, he’s happily travelled to and spent time in countries, which have languages of interest to him.

How does Alex manage to compartmentalise his language?

I onced asked Alex how he manages to compartmentalise his languages, to not mix them up when speaking and keep them fresh in his memory. He said that as he is a visual person, he pictures his languages as having something to do with weather – Russian in his head is cold and Spanish makes him think of the beach. Focusing on these images helps him stick to whichever language he is speaking at the time.

Do you need to do the same to learn a language?

If you want to be successful in language learning, you will need to do the same.

Why do people learn different languages?

They learn it due to necessity, convenience or because they love languages. Moreover, some languages are closely related, so learning one will help in studying the others. An example is the Romance language group. Other languages may be worlds apart, such as English and Chinese.

What percentage of people are fluent in more than five languages?

Less than one percent of people worldwide are proficient in many languages. If someone is fluent in more than five languages, the person is called a polyglot.

How many languages does Simcott speak?

Simcott has been fascinated with language since he was a child and started learning languages in grade school. According to him, he has already studied over 40 languages.. He can speak more than 16. He is the founder of the ‘Polyglot Conference.’ Simcott is also the Goethe Institut’s Multilingual Ambassador.

What level of language is fluent?

On the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR/CEFRL) scale, it is on the B level. The CEFR has six levels:

What did the study of Broca's area of the language students find out?

The brains of all participants were scanned after they completed the course. The researchers found out that the Broca’s area of the language students expanded whereas those belonging to students learning other subjects stayed the same.

How many languages do bilingual people speak?

A bilingual person speaks two languages with almost an equal level of fluency. About 43 percent of the population in the world is bilingual and speak a second language.

What part of the brain is responsible for language?

The Broca’s area is the part of the brain that is responsible for language. And, indeed, there were some unique features in the Broca’s area of Krebs’ brain. However, the scientists were not able to know if they were inborn or acquired.

Why is language important?

Language is a vital part of human connection. Although all species have their ways of communicating, humans are the only ones that have mastered cognitive language communication. Language allows us to share our ideas, thoughts, and feelings with others. It has the power to build societies, but also tear them down.

Why is language important in communication?

Though much of human communication is non-verbal (we can demonstrate our thoughts, feelings and ideas by our gestures, expressions, tones, and emotions) language is important for personal communication. Whether it’s being able to talk to your friends, your partner, or your family, having a shared language is necessary for these types of interactions.

Why is learning a foreign language important?

By learning a foreign language, you can understand ideas and thoughts that may be different from your own culture. You can learn customs and how people interact in a given society. Language helps preserve cultures, but it also allows us to learn about others and spread ideas quickly .

What is the informative function of language?

The informative function of language is when we use language to communicate any information. Essentially, its function is to inform others by being able to state facts clearly.

What is the function of language?

The main function of language is the usefulness of language. It gives us the ability to communicate thoughts, ideas, and feelings with others as quickly as possible. But, within that, we can understand language more by looking at its basic functions. 1. Informative Function.

How to avoid obscene language?

1. Use Appropriate Language. Using appropriate language does not just mean avoiding obscene language (there may be times when that is actually appropriate for the situation!). It means using language that’s appropriate for your audience, that they can understand, relate to, and engage with.

Is inclusive language changing?

When discussing topics like inclusive language, it’s easy to recognize that language, today, is changing alongside culture. With technology comes trends or different ways of speaking, like how many teenagers or young people use slang when they speak. When societies become more open-minded and progressive, we start accepting that there are many other ways of speaking language.