How to Become a Lawyer in Australia?

Last Updated on March 29, 2024 by Ranking

Becoming a lawyer in Australia is a rewarding and challenging journey that requires dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to justice. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps and requirements to become a practising lawyer in Australia. From eligibility criteria to admission processes and practical training, we will cover everything you need to know to embark on this fulfilling career path.

1. Eligibility Requirements

Before you can pursue a career in law, it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. In Australia, to be eligible for entry into a law degree program, you need to achieve a selection rank of 90 or above. This requires dedication and hard work during your high school years to achieve the necessary grades. While politics and law subjects are beneficial, they are not mandatory prerequisites for entry into a law degree program.

It’s worth noting that international students have different entry requirements, and it’s essential to check the specific requirements for international students set by the university or institution you plan to apply to.

2. Undergraduate Degree

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, the next step is to enroll in a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree program at a recognized Australian university. This undergraduate degree typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. During your LLB, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, legal principles, and legal research skills.

It’s essential to choose a reputable university that offers a rigorous and well-rounded law program. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, practical learning opportunities, and the university’s reputation in the legal field.

3. Specialization and Double Degrees

While studying for your LLB, you have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of law that align with your interests and career goals. You can choose to specialize in areas such as corporate and commercial law, intellectual property, criminal law, or family law, among others. Specializing in a particular area can enhance your expertise and open doors to niche career opportunities.

Additionally, many universities offer the option to pursue a double degree, combining law with another discipline. This allows you to broaden your knowledge and skills in complementary fields. For example, you can choose to combine law with arts to make an impact in areas such as human rights or social justice, or combine law with business to develop a strong foundation in both legal and business principles.

4. Industry Experience

Gaining real-world industry experience is a crucial aspect of becoming a successful lawyer. Many law programs offer opportunities for students to undertake industry experience placements or internships. These experiences provide invaluable insights into the daily workings of the legal profession and allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

For example, at Swinburne University, law students complete three 20-day industry experience placements, totaling 60 days of real-world experience before graduation. Such experiences not only enhance your understanding of the legal profession but also help you build valuable networks and develop essential skills.

5. Practical Legal Training

Once you have completed your LLB, you will need to undertake Practical Legal Training (PLT) to develop the practical skills required for legal practice. PLT is a structured training program designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. It equips you with the necessary skills to work as an entry-level lawyer.

There are various options for completing your PLT. Some universities, such as Swinburne, offer a Dual Award program where you can complete a Bachelor of Laws and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice simultaneously. This allows you to complete your PLT while still studying for your law degree.

Alternatively, you can choose to complete your PLT through external providers such as Leo Cussen Centre for Law or College of Law. These providers offer flexible learning options, including online and on-campus programs, to accommodate different schedules and preferences.

6. Admission to Practice

After completing your PLT, the next step is to apply for admission as a lawyer. Admission to practice is granted by the Supreme Court of the state or territory in which you wish to practice law. The admission process involves submitting an application, meeting the eligibility criteria set by the admission authority, and attending an admission ceremony.

Each state and territory in Australia has its own admission authority, and the specific requirements may vary. It’s essential to consult the admission authority in the relevant jurisdiction for detailed information and guidance on the admission process.

7. Practising Certificates

Once you have been admitted as a lawyer, you must obtain a practising certificate to legally practice law in Australia. A practising certificate is issued by the local legal professional body in your jurisdiction. The issuing body varies depending on the state or territory in which you practice.

For example, in the Australian Capital Territory, solicitors obtain their practising certificates from the Australian Capital Territory Law Society, while barristers receive theirs from the Australian Capital Territory Bar Association. Similarly, in New South Wales, solicitors obtain their practising certificates from the Law Society of New South Wales, while barristers receive theirs from the New South Wales Bar Association.

It’s important to contact the relevant authority in your jurisdiction to obtain the most up-to-date information on applying for a practising certificate.

8. Membership of Professional Bodies

Membership of professional bodies is an important aspect of a legal career. Professional bodies, such as state or territory Bar Associations, provide support, resources, and networking opportunities for lawyers. Membership is typically open to holders of Australian practising certificates who are also members of a State or Territory Bar Association.

The Australian Bar Association is the national representative body for Australian barristers. However, it does not offer full or associate memberships to foreign legal practitioners. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Australian Bar Association, you will need to meet the membership criteria, including holding an Australian practising certificate and being a member of a State or Territory Bar Association.

9. Admission and Practice Interstate

If you wish to practice law in a different Australian state or territory, you will need to refer to the relevant admitting body in that jurisdiction. The admission requirements and processes can be complex and varied, and it’s essential to understand the specific requirements for admission in each jurisdiction.

However, it’s worth noting that once you are admitted as a lawyer in one Australian jurisdiction, you are generally eligible for admission in other states or territories under the Mutual Recognition Scheme. This scheme facilitates the recognition of qualifications and admission between jurisdictions, making it easier to practice law across different parts of Australia.

10. Admission and Practice Internationally

The Melbourne JD, a law degree offered by the Melbourne Law School, can serve as a basis for seeking admission in many international jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction has its own admission boards with varying requirements for foreign law practitioners. It’s important to research and understand the specific requirements of the jurisdiction in which you wish to practice internationally.

The Melbourne Law School provides a list of professional bodies in popular international destinations, including Canada, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These bodies can provide detailed information on admission requirements and processes for foreign law practitioners.

11. Supporting Documentation

When applying for admission to practice or further study, graduates may be required to provide supporting documentation. This documentation may include academic transcripts, certificates, references, and any other relevant documents. It’s important to ensure that you have these documents readily available and that they meet the requirements set by the admission authority or educational institution.

12. Further Study Opportunities

For those interested in pursuing advanced legal education, there are various further study opportunities available. Completing a Master of Laws (LLM) or a Juris Doctor (JD) can enhance your legal knowledge and skills, open doors to specialized practice areas, and provide opportunities for research and academia.

Many universities offer postgraduate programs in law, allowing you to deepen your understanding of specific legal areas or develop expertise in niche fields. It’s important to research different programs, consider faculty expertise, and align your further study choices with your career goals.

In conclusion, becoming a lawyer in Australia requires a combination of academic excellence, practical experience, and dedication to the legal profession. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a legal practitioner and make a positive impact on society through the pursuit of justice.