International Lawyer
42AI USED FOR42%moving to80%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.
Skip to main content
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM LAW →
International Lawyer
International lawyers help clients with legal issues that cross borders. They might work on trade deals between countries, help refugees and asylum seekers, protect human rights, or sort out environmental law. They need to understand different countries' legal systems.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This job holds up well against AI
AI is used for a real share, around 42% of the day-to-day tasks today, and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£67,350Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior International LawyerIn this entry-level role, you will assist senior lawyers with legal research, drafting documents, and preparing case files. You will gain exposure to various aspects of international law and develop foundational skills necessary for your career.£30,000 - £40,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level International LawyerAt this stage, you will manage your own caseload, providing legal advice to clients and representing them in negotiations and disputes. You will be expected to have a solid understanding of international legal principles and the ability to work independently.£50,000 - £70,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior International Lawyer/PartnerIn this peak career role, you will lead complex international cases, mentor junior lawyers, and contribute to the strategic direction of your firm. You will be recognised as an expert in your field and may also engage in thought leadership through publications and speaking engagements.£90,000+
1 live apprenticeship vacancy →
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Law with Criminal Justice & Human RightsGoldsmiths' College · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Law with Study Abroad in EnglishThe University of Warwick · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Business LawUniversity Campus of Football Business Limited · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£27,000 median
🎓Law (Senior Status) - Graduate entryUniversity of York · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£26,500 median
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Global LawQueen Mary University of London · DegreeLaw with Criminal Justice & Human RightsGoldsmiths' College · DegreeLaw with Study Abroad in EnglishThe University of Warwick · DegreeBusiness LawUniversity Campus of Football Business Limited · DegreeCriminology and LawUniversity of Stirling · DegreeLaw (Senior Status) - Graduate entryUniversity of York · Degree