How to become an international lawyer ?

If you don't want to become a lawyer, but would like to work as an international lawyer, there are a number of different training courses that can help you get your foot in the door.

To become an international lawyer, obtaining a Master’s degree in European law, international law, or comparative law is essential. These fields provide a solid foundation in the principles of law and offer numerous specializations, such as international arbitration, maritime law, treaty law, and international justice. This academic background positions you to navigate the complexities of global legal issues and practice effectively within various jurisdictions.

These programs can be pursued at law faculties, law schools, or business schools, whether in France, abroad, or through a partner university. As a student, you will explore critical topics related to international relations and governance, including commercial agreements and human rights law. Engaging with these subjects not only enhances your understanding of international law but also equips you with the tools necessary to advise clients effectively and represent their interests in cross-border matters.

Additionally, the expertise gained through these courses is highly sought after by law firms, international companies, and European organizations, where the ability to understand and address complex legal issues is invaluable. By completing a specialized program, you will be well-prepared to navigate the interconnected landscape of international law and contribute to the enforcement of legal agreements on a global scale.

All these educational paths require a set of common skills, preparing you to fully practice as an international lawyer, regardless of the degree's rigor, whether it’s a Master’s in international business law or a degree in tax law. To thrive in the global legal space, you will need to develop the following skills:

• Precision: Law, especially on an international level, allows no room for approximation. You will need to master the analysis, interpretation, and application of legal texts, considering European and international legal systems.
• Curiosity: A good international lawyer stands out for their interest in various legal systems, such as those of the European Union, French civil law, or international criminal law. You must stay informed about French and foreign case law, even beyond your specialty, to meet the expectations of companies and law firms.
• Proactive Approach: In a constantly evolving legal world, it’s crucial to stay regularly updated, whether on developments in public international law or reforms in international competition and trade. This will allow you to adjust your legal advice and meet employers’ requirements.
• Creativity: Law offers a wide margin for proposing innovative solutions. As an international lawyer, you will need to create tailored legal strategies, whether for complex litigation or international contract negotiations.
• Written and Oral Communication: Mastery of languages, particularly French and English, is indispensable. You must clearly articulate your arguments, whether in negotiations with international partners or before courts like the International Court of Justice.

These skills will make you a top candidate for job offers in international companies, law firms, and organizations.

International lawyers can thrive in all areas of international business law, public international relations, and legal diplomacy.

Whether public or private, all sectors are impacted by legal matters. You can work as an international lawyer in any organization with a cross-border dimension.

If you prefer the public sector, you can pursue a career in international organizations like the UN or WHO, for example. If international conflicts interest you, you could join an international tribunal or an international arbitration court.

If human rights are your passion, you might consider working in the field of international immigration or joining an association or court like the European Court of Human Rights.

If you’re drawn to the business world, you could work in a multinational corporation, either in a legal department or in a litigation department, where you will handle cross-border disputes in collaboration with a law firm. Lawyers are the only ones authorized to plead in court, but you will assist them in preparing legal cases to present to the relevant court.

All areas of law, whether public or private, have an international branch. Whether you specialize in contracts, arbitration, litigation, intellectual property, or human rights, you can work in an international environment.

The role of an international lawyer is rapidly evolving in line with the social, economic and political challenges we face. Candidates aiming for top-tier positions must demonstrate academic excellence, from a law degree to advanced studies like a Master’s in international law. Gaining experience through internships or fixed-term contracts will be crucial for securing competitive roles. Involvement in domestic and international jurisdictions, coupled with understanding terms set by entities like the American Bar Association (ABA), provides key advantages for success.

International lawyers often handle disputes involving cross-border transactions, armed conflict, and cooperation between nations. Working with national and international entities, such as the United Nations or global corporations, offers opportunities to specialize in areas like tax, environmental law, or privacy agreements. Professionals will frequently navigate complex agreements, providing counsel on issues ranging from family law to war crimes. Through diplomacy and interaction with various actors, they help promote peace and security while addressing violations of sovereignty or crimes against humanity.

The MS Juriste Manager International program offered by emlyon business school trains the elite of international lawyers. Delivered over 12 months at the Paris or Lyon campus, this Specialized Master's, accredited by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles, is open to those holding a Master’s degree in law. This MS is taught mainly in French.

Apply during your final year of Master’s to join this prestigious program upon graduation, specifically tailored to the current needs of major companies and international organizations. Upon completing this year of study, you will be equipped to optimize your organization’s strategic choices from a legal perspective.

Taught by both academic and professional experts, the course will prepare you to tackle the challenges facing tomorrow’s international lawyers. Thanks to the work-study program, you can immediately apply your academic knowledge.

From Big Data to ethical concerns and collective intelligence, the program covers the wide range of issues that future international lawyers will encounter. With a 98% employment rate within six months, this MS opens doors to emlyon’s international alumni network and the 2,200 companies that hire emlyon graduates worldwide.

The rise of globalization in recent decades has created new demands for international law. Today, international lawyers are indispensable in all areas, both public and private. To master international legal challenges, choose a prestigious and recognized training program in international law. This will maximize your chances of achieving your professional goals and building a career that matches your ambitions.