Do you know Singapore has some of the best law schools in the world that provide excellent career opportunities? According to the QS World University Rankings, Singapore law schools consistently rank in the top 15 globally.
Demand is high for qualified professionals across a spectrum of legal specialties, including, corporate law, maritime law, banking and finance law, and more.
Studying law in Singapore can open doors to exciting opportunities to start a successful legal career.
This blog will share valuable tips to guide you in studying law in Singapore and launch your exciting legal career.
Some insider tips for studying law in Singapore
If you are setting your sights on a legal career in the Lion City, here’s a guide to kickstart your journey:
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Local law degree
The primary route to start your career in law is to earn a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD) from a reputed Singapore institution. This can give you a strong grounding in Singapore’s legal principles and the common law system.
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International Law Degrees
Holders of recognised international law degrees (LLB) can pursue the Singapore Bar Examinations (SBE) for qualification. However, you might need to bridge any gaps in Singapore-specific legal knowledge.
How to build a well rounded profile while studying law?
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Internships
Check for internships at law firms, government agencies, or in-house legal departments. Internships can give you practical exposure to the legal profession and help you develop transferable skills like research, writing, and communication. Look for internship opportunities that align with your preferred specialisation.
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Networking
Building a strong network can open doors to future opportunities. Join law associations and connect with legal professionals.
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Volunteer work
Consider volunteering at a legal aid organisation to gain experience.
What essential soft skills are expected from lawyers?
Lawyers need a strong foundation in legal knowledge and reasoning, but that’s only half the battle. To be successful, they also need a robust set of soft skills.
These soft skills affect how they interact with clients, opposing counsels, and more. Here are some essential soft skills for lawyers:
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Research and writing
The ability to conduct thorough legal research and present findings in clear, concise, and persuasive writing is essential for lawyers.
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Analytical thinking
Lawyers must be able to analyse complex legal issues, identify relevant legal principles, and apply them to solve problems.
- Communication
This is perhaps the most crucial soft skill for any lawyer. Excellent communication skills are essential for client interaction, negotiating deals, and advocating in court.
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Problem solving
Lawyers must be adept at identifying and resolving legal challenges faced by their clients.
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Negotiation
This is a fundamental skill for lawyers. Whether they are working on a contract, resolving a dispute, or arguing a court case, they need to develop the skills to advocate for their client’s position.
Some additional tips
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Stay updated
The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Always keep an eye on legal developments through industry publications and seminars. Develop a growth mindset and embrace lifelong learning.
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Be a tech savvy
Lawyers are increasingly using legal technology tools. Familiarise yourself with relevant software and platforms to enhance your efficiency and legal practice.
These tips can help you develop the necessary skills, build a strong foundation to kickstart a successful career as a lawyer in Singapore.
Enrol today!
