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LLM for becoming a Solicitor in England

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Kavorca

Joined: 03 Apr 2007
Posts: 13
LLM for becoming a Solicitor in England
Tue Apr 15, 2008 12:12 PM
Hi everyone

I'm considering applying for an LLM in London, in a top Uni (UCL, LSE, CAM, KC). Do you think that a Corporate, Banking or other General LLM gives me the oportunity (technically speaking) to work in London has a solicitor and "compete" with local solicitors? Note that by the time I start the LLM I'll be a qualified Portuguese lawyer. Do you think Lawfirms in London are interested in international students who take LLMs and then aim to work in the UK?

Thank you in advance
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Ella

Joined: 14 Apr 2008
Posts: 6
LLM for becoming a Solicitor in England
Tue Apr 15, 2008 02:51 PM
Hi Kavorca,

If you are a qualified solicitor, you will have to take a test called the QLTT (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test). Technically, you don't need a LLM to become a practicing solicitor in the UK, but it does boost your profile.

However, there are a lot of law firms which recruit international trainees. If you are heading for the Magic Circle, however, it helps to have a top uni on your CV. It is by no means obligatory, though.
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Kavorca

Joined: 03 Apr 2007
Posts: 13
LLM for becoming a Solicitor in England
Tue Apr 15, 2008 03:14 PM
Thank you for your reply.

You are right. But for EU qualified lawyers there might be another way to become a solicitor in the UK and not take this test. Go to the end of this page and you'll see.

www.sra.org.uk/solicitors/qltt.page

"For qualified lawyers from the European Union, there is an alternative transfer route for those who intend to practice permanently in the UK."

I haven't assess all there is to know, cause my top priority is to get the LLM in the UK, and only then qualify as solicitor.

Cheers
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Ella

Joined: 14 Apr 2008
Posts: 6
LLM for becoming a Solicitor in England
Tue Apr 15, 2008 03:42 PM
Right. An LLM would make you attractive to larger firms, especially if your Portuguese grades are fine.

Good luck!
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