UK-qualified solicitor (lawyer) to practice in California, USA?

by **darrick34** » Fri Apr 01, 2011 7:38 am

Does anyone know how a newly qualified solicitor who has practised (trained) in a global corporate law firm in England for two years can go about "converting" to a US qualification? I am aware that every state in the US has its specific Bar requirement and am thinking California in particular. How feasible is this, and has anyone done it before? I am know of many English solicitors moving to New York but not Cali! What is the market like for UK-qualified lawyers who have not done the J.D? In corporate law practices?

Please assume that immigration/visa requirements are not an issue.

Thanks very much!

by **zadok** » Fri Apr 01, 2011 7:40 am

Two questions here so two answers;

1. California is like NY - both allow anyone to take the Bar exam so you would have no problem there.

2. The market for lawyers? Well there is a glut of lawyers in the US right now. Without the internships that form part of the recruitment process, it is hard to get hired into a corporate firm. Your best bet might be to find a Californian firm with a London office and see if they would be interested.

by **mace** » Fri Apr 01, 2011 7:47 am

UK Law? that is not correct, you are qualified in English Law which means you cannot practise law in Scotland because Scots Law is different from English Law and you would have to retrain for 3 years in Scotland, so I presume you would have to do the same in USA ?

by **chozai65** » Fri Apr 01, 2011 7:51 am

Suggest you ask a solicitor

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