So you’ve decided you are taking the QLTS. Well done!
What’s your plan then?
Are you staying in your own country, continuing with your old job and preparing for the QLTS in your spare time?
I have personally decided that the optimum was to move to the UK and practice my English – and my knowledge of the Common Law system – on situ: destination? London!
Foreword: the job market in London is incredibly fast and in continue evolution.
Having said that if you are a foreign qualified lawyer the chances of getting a job offer from a “Magic Circle” Law Firm are few, to be perfectly honest.
Unless you come from a Magic Circle Law Firm.
But if you don’t, just like me, there are still some good options.
Paralegal roles: there are many offers for paralegal roles at Law Firms – you can see it as a career regression, but if you really want to get the foot in the door, it’s worth having a look. Chances are your qualifications and experiences will make you stand out from the crowd, which – believe me – is massive.
In-house roles: apparently the number of in-house lawyers is growing, and given the number of international companies based or operating in London, there is a good chance someone is looking for a candidate with your qualifications and experience in your home country.
E-discovery: or Document Review roles are a great opportunity if you are new to the market, especially if you are an overseas or European qualified lawyer. Often project require language skills and being native speaker turns out to be a real asset.
Finding the right balance between your job and your plans to pass the Qualified lawyers transfer scheme can be tricky, but I found that Document Review projects are the ideal solution.
They give you the opportunity to work as much as you like, with a lot of flexibility on days and working hours.
The flip side: too much flexibility, short projects and sometimes one day notice….
Cheers!
Alegher
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