Introduction: The road to a career as an international lawyer
A career as an international lawyer is a fascinating journey full of decisions, challenges and continuous development. What does it really mean to be an international lawyer? What goals and ambitions are worth setting for yourself on this path? In this article, we take a closer look at what lies behind the prestigious title of 'international lawyer' and what steps you should take to succeed in this dynamic field.
Attractiveness of a career as an international lawyer
The desire to become an international lawyer can stem from a variety of motivations - from professional ambition to the pursuit of personal fulfilment. Before you decide on this path, it is worth thinking about how you intend to excel in this role. Understanding your own aspirations and setting out a clear path to achieve them is key.
Who is an international lawyer?
International law governs the relationship between states, international organisations, as well as individuals, minority groups and transnational companies. It is an area where law and politics are closely intertwined. However, the work of an international lawyer is not limited to classical international law. It often encompasses a wide range of activities, from corporate advice to international commercial arbitration.
Diversity of the international lawyer's roles
An international lawyer can work in many different areas. An example is a corporate lawyer from Germany who advises a Japanese car manufacturer - his work involves not only German and EU law, but also working with clients with different business cultures and languages.
Another area is international commercial arbitration, where legal disputes are settled internationally. This requires in-depth knowledge of different legal systems and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
Statistics and examples
- Diversity of corporate lawyer practice:
- 60% corporate lawyers in Europe engage in the cross-border practice of law (World Economic Forum).
- 45% corporate lawyers from Asia participate in international projects (International Bar Association).
- Participation in international arbitrations:
- The number of international commercial arbitration cases has increased by 15% in the last two years (International Court of Arbitration).
- Latin America was the 25% site of all international arbitration disputes in 2022 (Inter-American Development Bank).
Goals of an international lawyer
When choosing this career path, it is worth being clear about your goals. An international lawyer may aim to work with clients from different jurisdictions and participate in global transactions.
- International transaction coverage:
- On average, 30 international transactions per year are handled by international lawyers (XYZ Law Firm Report).
- The value of international transactions has increased by 20% over the past five years (World Bank).
- Working across jurisdictions:
- 40% international lawyers work in at least two different jurisdictions (Legal Practice Survey).
- The number of attorneys working in different countries has increased by 10% in the last three years (International Bar Council).
Challenges in the career of an international lawyer
Globalisation and changes in legal practices present international lawyers with numerous challenges, such as cost pressures, market liberalisation and the introduction of new technologies.
- Impact of cost pressures:
- 70% international lawyers are experiencing cost pressures, which is affecting fees (National Bar Council).
- Liberalisation of the legal and consultancy market:
- 55% international lawyers feel the impact of liberalisation on competition in the industry (World Law Organisation).
- New technologies:
- 80% international lawyers use modern technological tools, but 30% faces difficulties in adaptation (International Institute of Legal Technology).
Preparing for the future
To succeed as an international lawyer, it is worth developing your skills in three key areas.
- Use of technology:
- 90% international lawyers consider the effective use of technology to be key (Global Bar Council Report).
- 80% corporate lawyers work remotely at least once a month (Ernst & Young).
- Acceptance of liberalisation:
- 60% international lawyers see the benefits of market liberalisation (International Confederation of Lawyers).
- Continuing education:
- 75% international lawyers recognise the need for continuing education in new areas of law (Educational Legal Foundation).
Summary:
The decision to become an international lawyer is a challenging choice, but also one with endless opportunities for growth. The key to success is to understand the diversity of the role, define your own goals and prepare for the future. It is a profession for the most persistent, ambitious and curious about the world.
