Often, career talks are dominated by pupillage applications. What you don’t get told though, is that there are a whole load of other jobs out there that are just as fascinating. If, like me, you don’t know what kind of law you’re interested in, these roles offer time for exploration, experimentation and excitement, and the much-desired breathing space to actually figure life out! Here are a few of my highlights:
International Bar Association (IBA) – Internship
https://www.ibanet.org/legal-internship-programme-applications
If you’re looking for something short-term but fascinating, the IBA’s three-month internships may be for you! These are located in London, Washington DC and the Hague and so could also be a chance to expand your legal and geographical horizons. In London, interns are based at the Human Rights Institute, the Legal and Research Policy Unit or with the Executive Director. Work involves legal research and written advocacy and could put you at the forefront of developments in environmental law, media freedoms or the digital revolution. While it is unpaid, there is the option of the IBA Bursary which offers up to £2000 (for London internships). Applications are accepted on a rolling basis so also no need to rush!
Court of Appeal/ High Court – Judicial Assistant
Interested in the behind the scenes of the hottest up and coming cases? Then just imagine life as a Judicial Assistant: not only would you have the chance to watch some of the best barristers in the country, but you would even get the opportunity to get to know the judges presiding. As your role would be to produce case summaries, memoranda, and conduct legal research, these positions offer a unique path into figuring out the next steps in your own career. Applications for the Court of Appeal open on the Ministry of Justice website in April and applications for the High Court open in May on judiciary.uk. They are fixed term positions with a good salary. Keep your eyes peeled!
Law Commission – Research Assistant
The Law Commission operate at the heart of cutting-edge law reforms. Their previous work has focused on surrogacy, digital currencies, driverless cars and rent reforms and so offers a breadth of experience its difficult to find anywhere else. Working within a team of economists, legal professionals and parliamentary officials, this role would give you the opportunity to mix with a range of stakeholders and develop professional relationships across the board. It would hone those research skills and give you an edge in any other application you make.
LPC Law – Self-employed Advocate
Crucially, this role offers the advocacy experience that every law student dreams of. From summary judgment applications to costs orders, this role will give you the chance to put your BTC knowledge to the test! You will get the chance to tackle a range of subject matter and become familiar with the County Court set up that you will experience in pupillage. The role also enables you to set your own working hours, enabling you to strike your own work-life balance or pursue other ventures on the side. Applications are set to open around 30th July and involve an interim application exercise.