Types of Law Courses in South Africa
To become an attorney in South Africa, you would need to complete an LLB (Bachelor of Laws, which is an undergraduate law degree), two years of articles (working in a law firm as a "candidate attorney"), pass the board exams and be admitted as an attorney by the High Court of South Africa.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Be A Lawyer in South Africa?
You can pursue an LLB right after matriculating and meeting a university's admission requirements, but also as a second degree. An LLB qualification takes up to at least four years to complete. The degree must be earned at an accredited law school in South Africa.
How Many Years To Study Law in South Africa?
You can also meet the requirements to become a lawyer in South Africa by first getting a Bachelor of Commerce with Law (BCom) and then completing an LLB qualification but in two years.
Studying Law in South Africa
Another option is to pursue a Diploma in Law instead of a degree, or obtaining a Diploma before going after a Degree. You can also focus on a particular specialty; for example, a Diploma in Criminal Law. Students would gain knowledge, skills and experience where they'll learn the basics of law but it won't be enough to grant a conversion to an LLB qualification.
Students can learn about the general areas of law with a Diploma, as well as the application and social context to prepare you for providing primary legal services to the public and support to legal professionals.
Depending on the institution you choose to study at, a Diploma in Law would generally take one to two years to earn.
Types of Law Careers in South Africa
You can further your legal studies by choosing a specific field of law to specialise in. South Africa has multiple law careers you can venture into, including Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law, Civil Litigation Law, Defamation Law, and Family Law.
To specialise in certain fields, LLB graduates may pursue an LLM (Master of Laws, which is a postgraduate degree) and later on, an LLD (Doctor of Laws). A Master of Laws qualification is designed to enhance your academic law knowledge, allowing you to focus on specific areas of interest.
