How to become an international lawyer ?
An international lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in international law, advising on the rules, treaties, and conventions that govern relationships between countries, organizations, and individuals across borders. This lawyer works within the legal profession to provide expert guidance to governments, multinational corporations, and non-governmental organizations on issues such as human rights, international trade, diplomacy, cross-border disputes, and environmental law. International lawyers frequently engage with international courts, arbitration panels, and global institutions like the United Nations, the International Court of Justice, and the World Trade Organization. Their expertise bridges domestic and international legal systems, ensuring compliance with treaties, regulations, and global standards, while facilitating complex cross-border negotiations. Key skills for an international lawyer include mastery of international treaties, conflict resolution, and navigating global regulatory frameworks. In today’s era of globalization, international lawyers play a critical role in shaping laws, policies, and agreements that extend beyond national boundaries.
Studies and education to become an international lawyer
If you don't want to become a lawyer, but would like to work as an international lawyer, there are a number of different training courses that can help you get your foot in the door.
International law studies and specializations
To become an international lawyer, obtaining a Master’s degree in European law, international law, or comparative law is essential. These fields provide a solid foundation in the principles of law and offer numerous specializations, such as international arbitration, maritime law, treaty law, and international justice. This academic background positions you to navigate the complexities of global legal issues and practice effectively within various jurisdictions.
These programs can be pursued at law faculties, law schools, or business schools, whether in France, abroad, or through a partner university. As a student, you will explore critical topics related to international relations and governance, including commercial agreements and human rights law. Engaging with these subjects not only enhances your understanding of international law but also equips you with the tools necessary to advise clients effectively and represent their interests in cross-border matters.
Additionally, the expertise gained through these courses is highly sought after by law firms, international companies, and European organizations, where the ability to understand and address complex legal issues is invaluable. By completing a specialized program, you will be well-prepared to navigate the interconnected landscape of international law and contribute to the enforcement of legal agreements on a global scale.
What are the key skills for international lawyers?
To excel as an international lawyer, you need more than just a degree—whether it’s a Master’s in International Business Law, a degree in Tax Law, or another specialized legal qualification. Success in the global legal field requires a combination of legal knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills. Here are the essential skills that all aspiring international lawyers must develop:
International law leaves no room for error. You must analyze, interpret, and apply legal texts accurately across different jurisdictions, including European and international legal systems. Precision ensures your advice is reliable and respected by clients and courts alike.
A top international lawyer stays informed about various legal frameworks, such as EU law, French civil law, and international criminal law. Keeping up with domestic and foreign case law beyond your specialty is critical to meeting the high expectations of multinational law firms and global corporations.
The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Staying updated on public international law, international trade law, and competition regulations allows you to provide timely, relevant advice. A proactive approach ensures you can anticipate legal challenges before they arise.
International law often requires innovative solutions. Whether handling complex litigation, negotiating cross-border contracts, or advising multinational clients, creativity allows you to develop tailored legal strategies that address unique challenges.
Fluency in key languages, especially English and French, is essential. Effective oral and written communication enables you to articulate arguments clearly in international negotiations, client consultations, and before tribunals like the International Court of Justice.
Developing these skills positions you as a highly competitive candidate for roles in international law firms, multinational companies, and global organizations. By combining legal knowledge, practical experience, and professional expertise, you can thrive in the demanding world of international law.
Career and opportunities for international lawyers
International lawyers can thrive in all areas of international business law, public international relations, and legal diplomacy.
Employment sectors for international lawyers
Whether public or private, all sectors are impacted by legal matters. You can work as an international lawyer in any organization with a cross-border dimension.
If you prefer the public sector, you can pursue a career in international organizations like the UN or WHO, for example. If international conflicts interest you, you could join an international tribunal or an international arbitration court.
If human rights are your passion, you might consider working in the field of international immigration or joining an association or court like the European Court of Human Rights.
If you’re drawn to the business world, you could work in a multinational corporation, either in a legal department or in a litigation department, where you will handle cross-border disputes in collaboration with a law firm. Lawyers are the only ones authorized to plead in court, but you will assist them in preparing legal cases to present to the relevant court.
Specialized fields in international law
All areas of law, whether public or private, have an international branch. Whether you specialize in contracts, arbitration, litigation, intellectual property, or human rights, you can work in an international environment.
Challenges and practical aspects of the international lawyer profession
The role of an international lawyer is rapidly evolving in line with the social, economic and political challenges we face. Candidates aiming for top-tier positions must demonstrate academic excellence, from a law degree to advanced studies like a Master’s in international law. Gaining experience through internships or fixed-term contracts will be crucial for securing competitive roles. Involvement in domestic and international jurisdictions, coupled with understanding terms set by entities like the American Bar Association (ABA), provides key advantages for success.
Managing international conflicts and legal diplomacy
International lawyers often handle disputes involving cross-border transactions, armed conflict, and cooperation between nations. Working with national and international entities, such as the United Nations or global corporations, offers opportunities to specialize in areas like tax, environmental law, or privacy agreements. Professionals will frequently navigate complex agreements, providing counsel on issues ranging from family law to war crimes. Through diplomacy and interaction with various actors, they help promote peace and security while addressing violations of sovereignty or crimes against humanity.
How to become an international lawyer with emlyon
The Advanced Master in International Business Law & Management program offered by emlyon business school trains the elite of international lawyers. Delivered over 12 months at the Paris or Lyon campus, this Specialized Master's, accredited by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles, is open to those holding a Master’s degree in law. This MS is taught mainly in French.
Apply during your final year of Master’s to join this prestigious program upon graduation, specifically tailored to the current needs of major companies and international organizations. Upon completing this year of study, you will be equipped to optimize your organization’s strategic choices from a legal perspective.
Taught by both academic and professional experts, the course will prepare you to tackle the challenges facing tomorrow’s international lawyers. Thanks to the work-study program, you can immediately apply your academic knowledge.
From Big Data to ethical concerns and collective intelligence, the program covers the wide range of issues that future international lawyers will encounter. With a 98% employment rate within six months, this MS opens doors to emlyon’s international alumni network and the 2,200 companies that hire emlyon graduates worldwide.
Brochure of the Advanced Master in International Business Law & Management
Conclusion
The rise of globalization in recent decades has created new demands for international law. Today, international lawyers are indispensable in all areas, both public and private. To master international legal challenges, choose a prestigious and recognized training program in international law. This will maximize your chances of achieving your professional goals and building a career that matches your ambitions.