France Law

Learn how to study law in France

 

Studying law in France is a popular option for international students. This article shares some information about the country's education system, what you can expect from the job market, and how it compares to other countries.

 

What Law Schools in France?

 

Each year, hundreds of students enroll in law schools in France. They come from all around the world, especially Europe and Canada. The three main universities are HEC Paris, ESSEC Business School, and University of Dijon.The most important factor for students when choosing a law school is the ranking of the school in terms of selectivity and reputation. France has a strong tradition of legal education and hosts many well-known universities in the world. The best law schools in France are located in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Versailles, and Montpellier.

 

What is the Difference Between a Legal Career in France and the US?

 

In France, it's not difficult to find a job in law. Therefore, people tend to work as lawyers and not attorneys. Non-lawyers who want to practice law in France are required to take the bar exam. Once you pass, you will be considered a lawyer in France. In contrast, Americans need to first obtain an undergraduate degree and then go through more rigorous testing for the bar exam before being approved as an attorney in the US. A legal career in France is not like a legal career in the US. There are very specific requirements for gaining admission into the French bar and these requirements differ from those of the US Bar Exam. The French Bar Exam is an oral germane examination, meaning you only have to answer questions on law and not write a paper. What's more, there are no grades given on this exam so it's extremely difficult to compare your performance with others taking it.

 

How do I Apply to Become a Lawyer in France?

 

Before you start your application, you'll want to make sure that you have a high-level understanding of the application process. This will take some time and research, but once you start your application, it is best to get as much information on the application process from others who have been successful and stayed in France during the application process. If you want to study law in France, you'll need to contact the French Ministry of Education for more information about how to apply. You can find their website here: https://www.education.gouv.fr/

 

Should I get a Masters Degree or a Postgraduate Degree?

 

Both a Masters Degree and a Postgraduate Degree are excellent options for studying law in France. A Masters Degree is the most prestigious option, as it is considered to be the equivalent of a French university's Master's degree. It also carries more weight and will often help you secure work inside of France. A postgraduate degree is less prestigious than the Master's Degree, but still gives the same amount of knowledge as an undergraduate degree from a French university. While a Masters Degree will probably be more expensive and time consuming, it may better prepare you for the professional world. On the other hand, if you're interested in pursuing a career in law, it might make sense to get a Postgraduate Degree. In any case, your dream of studying law in France will likely require both types of degrees.

 

What Salary for Lawyers in France?

 

The legal profession in France is an interesting career to pursue. A lawyer in France can earn anywhere between €28,000 annually (in 2016) to €90,000 annually (in 2017). Lawyers are typically paid a fixed salary and they can also earn bonuses or commissions on certain stages of the case. The average salary of lawyers in France is approximately 1,700 euros. There are approximately 12,000 law students in France with the number expected to rise to 18,000 by 2020. The required duration of a law degree course in France is 3 years and the first year of study can be completed at university level.