Embarking on the journey to become a lawyer in Australia is a rewarding path that opens up numerous career opportunities. Whether you’re driven by a desire to advocate for justice, a passion for intellectual challenge, or the allure of a prestigious career, the process of becoming a lawyer involves several critical steps. This guide will walk you through the necessary educational qualifications, practical training, and admission requirements to practice law in Australia.
Step 1: Obtain a Law Degree
The first step in becoming a lawyer in Australia is to complete an accredited degree at a law school. There are two main pathways to achieve this:
1. Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- A standard undergraduate law degree (offers the quickest path to becoming a lawyer)
- Typically takes 4-5 years to complete, with many students opting for double majors and honours degrees
- Available at most Australian universities, including all G8 universities except the University of Melbourne
2. Juris Doctor (JD)
- A postgraduate law degree for those who already hold a bachelor’s or advanced degree in another field
- Generally takes 3 years to complete – accelerated paths may be available
- Offered at just over a third of all Australian universities – available at all G8 universities except the University of Adelaide and the University of Queensland
LLB vs JD
The LLB and JD programs are considered equivalent in terms of the standard of teaching and content. They both provide a comprehensive education in Australian law, including the Priestly 11, which are core subjects mandated by the Law Admissions Consultative Committee (LACC) to ensure that all law graduates have a fundamental understanding of essential areas of law. These are:
- Administrative Law
- Civil Procedure
- Company Law
- Constitutional Law
- Contracts
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Equity (including Trusts)
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility
- Evidence
- Property Law
- Torts
3. Diploma in Law
While the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Juris Doctor (JD) are the standard pathways for school leavers and university graduates aspiring to become lawyers in Australia, there is an additional, flexible option: the Diploma in Law (DipLaw).
The DipLaw program, administered by the Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB) in New South Wales, offers an alternative route to legal practice. This pathway is particularly suited for mature students, professionals seeking a career change, or those who may not meet the conventional entry requirements for LLB or JD programs. The DipLaw course covers essential legal subjects and provides a comprehensive foundation in law, ultimately allowing graduates to qualify for admission as legal practitioners in New South Wales.
For more information, you can visit the Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB) website.
This pathway, along with the traditional LLB and JD programs, highlights the diverse options available for aspiring lawyers in Australia, catering to different educational backgrounds and career aspirations.
Step 2: Complete Legal Training ⚖️
After completing a law degree, the next step is to undertake training to bridge the gap between academic study and legal practice. This training will equip you with the practical skills needed to work as a lawyer. Legal training can be completed through:
1. Practical legal training (PLT)
- A structured program that includes coursework and practical experience.
- Typically takes 6-12 months to complete.
- Awards a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP) upon completion
- Offered by a variety of institutions including:
- The College of Law, UNSW Sydney, Law Society of South Australia / University of Adelaide, University of Tasmania, Leo Cussen Centre of Law, ACAP and Law Institute of Victoria, etc.
2. Supervised workplace training
- Involves working under the supervision of a qualified lawyer for a specified period.
- Duration and specific requirements vary by jurisdiction.
- SWT routes focus on developing practical skills like client interviewing, legal research, drafting documents, and advocacy.
Step 3: Gain Admission to Legal Practice 🏛️
Upon completing your PLT, the final step is to gain admission to legal practice in your state or territory. The admission process involves:
1. Applying to the Supreme Court
Each Australian state and territory has its own Supreme Court that handles admissions.
You must submit an application, including proof of your law degree and PLT completion.
2. Fulfilling character and fitness requirements
Applicants must demonstrate good character and fitness to practice law. This may involve providing references, undergoing a police check, and disclosing any past conduct issues.
3. Attending an admission ceremony
Successful applicants are formally admitted to the legal profession during a ceremony.
After admission, you can apply for a practising certificate from your local legal authority.
Step 4: Specialisation and Further Education 🎓
Once admitted, you may choose to specialise in a particular area of law, such as family law, corporate law, or environmental law. Further education and professional development can enhance your expertise and career prospects. Options include:
1. Master of Laws (LLM)
- An advanced degree focusing on specialised legal areas.
- Can be pursued part-time or full-time at most law schools, including ones overseas
2. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Ongoing training required to maintain your practising certificate.
- Includes attending seminars, workshops, and completing online courses.
In a Nutshell 🐿️
Becoming a lawyer in Australia is a structured yet fulfilling process that involves obtaining a law degree, completing practical legal training, and gaining admission to practice. The system is set to accept applicants from diverse backgrounds, whether you be a diligent high school student or a soon-to-be biology graduate.
This career offers intellectual challenge, financial rewards, and the opportunity to make a difference. Ready to start your legal journey? Explore your options and take the first step towards a dynamic and impactful career in law.
