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Planning a Career in Law

A legal qualification from a UK university can set you up for a great career in law and related fields. As well as becoming a solicitor or barrister in a law firm, you could take on an exciting role in business, government or the non-profit sector. So let’s take a look at some current research into skills gaps in the legal sector, and get the low-down from two recent international graduates – one working in business, and the other in human rights.

The skills gap in the legal sector

Like so many industries today, the legal sector is changing fast as modern technologies open up opportunities and place new demands on firms.

So there is a widening skills gap. Employers are looking for up-to-date tech skills such as cybersecurity, project management and data analysis, as well as legal expertise.

Writing in the Law Gazette, legal recruitment expert Stephen Panmami says: “Candidates who can demonstrate expertise in areas like privacy law, regulatory compliance, and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) issues are in high demand.

“Additionally, soft skills like client relationship management, leadership, and adaptability are becoming increasingly important.

“Legal professionals who can bridge the gap between legal knowledge and business strategy are now at the top of recruiters' lists.”

AI effect on the legal jobs market

Most pressingly, there is a lack of lawyers with AI skills. Generative AI is going to change the sector considerably, with some of the more routine or junior legal tasks such as document review and basic drafting already being swept away.

But there’s no need to be worried that generative AI will replace lawyers completely! Research by Thomson Reuters found that more than half of the senior lawyers surveyed expect GenAI to create new roles within the next three to five years.

Some of these will be specialist AI positions, while others will be focused on training, project management, compliance and data security.

But GenAI’s effect will be bigger than that. It is expected that all lawyers will need basic training on AI use to enhance their legal work, such as how to prompt engines to deliver results

However, rest assured – clients will always need that human touch that only real-life lawyers can offer.

An international graduate’s law role success

UK universities are rising to the challenge, and ensuring that their law courses focus not just on academic knowledge, but also on tech and soft skills. They’re giving graduates a solid basis from which to build successful careers in the whole range of legal fields.

One such graduate is SM Anisuzzaman, who studied law at UWE Bristol and is now legal manager at the Aman Group of manufacturing companies in Bangladesh.

He says: “Having a degree from a well-regarded institution like the University of West of England can enhance a candidate's credibility and appeal to employers, making them more competitive in the job market.”

His course gave him the comprehensive legal knowledge he needed to “navigate complex legal issues in both litigation and corporate environments”.

He also learned practical skills such as drafting and advocacy, “which equip students to apply legal principles in real-world contexts. These experiences are invaluable when handling legal matters at courts, chambers & dynamic organizations.”

Further essential components of his UWE course that helped him land his position were: critical thinking and problem-solving; networking opportunities; research and communication skills; and understanding of business context.

“Legal workshops at UWE include modules on business law and corporate governance, helping students understand the intersection between legal frameworks and business operations, which is crucial for a managerial role,” he says.

Deeper legal knowledge

Of course, a law degree won’t focus solely on practical skills – it will give you an in-depth understanding of ethical and rights issues too.

Rida from Pakistan took a law degree at UWE Bristol and now works as a legal consultant for the United Nations Development Programme in her home country.

She says: “I work on advancing and protecting human rights in the context of business-related abuses, including workplace harassment, child labour, and the rights of workers.

“A UK qualification, including a Bar at Law and Master's degree, was key in securing this role. The legal training provided expertise in human rights and corporate law, while the Bar honed my advocacy skills. The Master's deepened my understanding of business and human rights, equipping me to navigate complex legal and ethical challenges in the field.”

Advice for international graduates looking for legal jobs

SM Anisuzzaman is happy to share key advice for international students eager to follow in his footsteps. His top tips are:

1. Understand the industry by carrying out thorough research specific to the relevant sector.
2. Leverage your network by building relationships with professors, peers and professionals eg by attending networking events and workshops.
3. Gain practical experience through internships or part-time roles.
4. Develop soft skills such as communication and negotiation by taking part in group projects or public speaking events.
5. Stay informed with legal news in your home country and where you intend to work.
6. Tailor your application to the position you are targeting, eg by highlighting relevant experiences and skills.
7. Consider additional qualifications depending on your career goals.
8. Seek professional development to stay competitive throughout your career.

And, for prospective students interested in human rights law, Rida advises: “Stay deeply committed to addressing human rights violations globally, understanding that abuse anywhere undermines justice and the integrity of our world.

“Approach your work with kindness and empathy, with a genuine passion for justice.

“Above all, remain passionate and persistent, as human rights law can be challenging, but it is deeply rewarding when driven by a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.”

Good luck!

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