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How To Become a Lawyer In Singapore?

Being a lawyer, your main job is to represent your clients, businesses, individuals, and government agencies who are involved in some kind of legal disputes. Likewise, in order to effectively represent and give the appropriate advise their clients need, a lawyer should know how to interpret the laws, rulings, and they should also have the ability to fit out legal documents if ever. Some of the most common documents a lawyer usually handles include contracts, lawsuits, wills, and deeds. Additionally, they could also have a specialization in a specific area that's related to the legal system, such as corporate law, criminal law, taxes, litigation, and family law.

These professionals work on a full-time basis, and if it's needed, they should be willing to work for longer hours, even during the weekends and evenings. Most lawyers usually work in an office setting, but there are some who travel for cases and meetings, especially if it's required. This kind of job could really be stressful, but it'll also depend on the specialty. Without a doubt, the income is truly promising though...

Job Requirements

Aside from obtaining a bachelor's degree, those who aspire of becoming a lawyer should also go to law school. Aside from that, they're also required to take and pass the bar exam of Singapore in order to practice their career.

Common Requirements

* Degree Level: Juris Doctor
* Degree Field: Law (the specializations may vary)
* Licensure: Should pass the bar exam in Singapore
* Experience: Before a lawyer could start their own practice, they're required to work as associates first.
* Key Skills: Aside from having good analytical skills, they should also have strong communication, problem-solving, and research skills.

Steps on How to Become a Lawyer in Singapore:
Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Even though there isn't any specific bachelor's degree to be taken by prospective lawyers, several subjects could prepare the students for law school. Taking courses in history, English, economics, and political science could be completed within several majors and this could give the student the idea of what area in law, they're interested to pursue. Likewise, it's vital for students to perform well, even in their undergraduate courses, because this would have a bearing when they enroll in a law school.

Tip: If you can, try to participate in mock trials

Oftentimes, undergraduates have the opportunity to take part in mock trials and this would give them an experience of what it's like to become a trial attorney. Furthermore, mock trials also help a student to develop the essential skills that would allow him to understand the judicial system even more.

Take the LSAT

LSAT, or the “Law School Admission Test” is a required, standardized exam that undergrads must take before they could enter a law school that's accredited by the Singapore Bar Association. This exam is offered on a quarterly basis and it evaluates the applicant's verbal reasoning and reading skills. It's one of the most important factors that a law school takes into consideration before accepting an applicant for admittance. Questions on the exam are composed of analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning.