An LLM in UK for Pakistani students is a master’s degree in law that allows them to study a specific area of law in more detail than a bachelor’s degree. UK law degrees are well-respected worldwide, and getting a Law Degree from the UK is a great way to start your legal career. Many Pakistani students stay in the UK for up to a year to prepare for the Bar Council Entry Test, which is required to get a law practice license in Pakistan.
If you want to study LLM in UK, you first need to complete a full first-degree program. Having a UK LLB or LLM does not automatically allow you to practice law in Pakistan. You must also complete a one-year Graduate Diploma in Law, also called a Law Conversion Course, before you can legally work as a lawyer in Pakistan. Additionally, if you have a UK LLB degree in Pakistan, you cannot take a diploma in Pakistani procedural laws.
Eligibility Criteria to Practice Bar at Law in Pakistan with UK Degree
- You must register with the Pakistan Bar Council to practice law in Pakistan.
- Even with a UK LLM, you cannot practice Pakistani law without registration.
- If you have qualifications in other jurisdictions, you can give legal advice on foreign and international laws in Pakistan.
How to Practice Law in Pakistan after doing a Masters in Law from UK?
If you have done LLM in UK universities and want to practice law in Pakistan, you must meet certain legal requirements. Let’s discuss about them in detail below:
Understanding the Pakistani Legal System
- In Pakistan, the legal profession mainly consists of Advocates (similar to barristers in the UK). The role of solicitors does not exist in Pakistan.
- To become an advocate with British law in Pakistan, you need an LLB degree from a recognized Pakistani university.
- To legally practice, you must register with a Bar Association and pay membership fees.
- You need to fulfill certain requirements and submit documents as part of the Bar enrollment process.
Role of a UK LLM in Pakistan
- A LLM in UK universities does not automatically qualify you to practice law in Pakistan.
- It helps improve expertise in a specific area of law, making you a stronger candidate in the legal field.
- An LLM can be valuable for legal consultants, corporate lawyers, or academics in Pakistan.
Steps to Practice Law in Pakistan
- If you don’t have an LLB Degree from Pakistan, you must complete an LLB from a recognized Pakistani university.
- After earning an LLB, apply to join the Pakistan Bar Council to become a licensed advocate.
- You must submit the necessary documents, pay fees, and take an oath before you can start practicing.
- Interning or working at a university of law LLM in Pakistan will help you understand local laws and build connections.
Important Points to Consider
- Pakistani law is different from UK law, so you will need to study local legal procedures.
- Many legal documents are in English, so good language skills are helpful.
- Building a strong network in the legal community can open better career opportunities.
Conclusion
If you want to practice law in Pakistan after completing an LLM in UK, you must understand the local legal system and meet the Pakistan Bar Council’s requirements. A LLM in UK for Pakistani students alone does not qualify you to practice law in Pakistan, so you may need additional qualifications or experience. Since Pakistani law is a mix of British common law and Islamic law, it is important to study local legal practices. Doing internships or work experience in Pakistan can help you adapt. With the right steps, you can build a successful legal career in Pakistan.
FAQs
What is the scope of bar at law in UK for Pakistani students?
Pakistani students who want to become barristers in the UK must complete a law degree, a Bar training course, and practical training (pupillage) before they can qualify as a barrister.
What is a law degree in Pakistan duration?
In Pakistan, a law degree takes five years to complete. Before 2016, it was a three-year program, but the Pakistan Bar Council changed it to five years.
Can I study British law in Pakistan?
Yes, you can study British law in Pakistan through the University of London (UOL) LLB (Hons) program. It is recognized by the (HEC) and Pakistan Bar Council.
