Practicing Law in New Zealand
New Zealand Law is based upon Equity and the Common law system inherited from Britain. The New Zealand Courts have jurisdiction to administer both equity and the common law system concurrently
In New Zealand lawyers are admitted to the profession as both barristers and solicitors and it is usual, following admission, to practice in both capacities.
There are three main groups of barristers and solicitors
- those who work in private practice, either on their own account (alone or in partnership with others in a firm) or as employed solicitors
- those employed by a government department, corporate body, or professional association
- those who practice as barristers sole
Am I qualified to practice Law in New Zealand
- If you have an overseas law qualification but are not entitled to practice in another jurisdiction, you must apply to the New Zealand Council of Legal Education (NZCLE) for an assessment of your qualifications.
- Overseas law graduates or those who have been admitted in another jurisdiction (except Australia) may be required to complete further New Zealand university subjects and/ or parts of the New Zealand Law and Practice Examination. This will be determined after NZCLE has assessed your qualifications and experience.
- Obtain a certificate of completion from the NZCLE
- Obtain a certificate of character from the New Zealand Law Society
- Be admitted to the roll of barristers and solicitors of the High Court of New Zealand
- Once you have been admitted you can apply to the Law Society for a practicing certificate
- Lawyers holding a practicing certificate for Australia must follow a two step process under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act1997 (TTMRA) to work in New Zealand
Legal Salaries example
In house counsel - Median $85k, Range - $47k - $145k
Private practice – Median $70k, Range - $45k - $105k
For further information see:
http://www.lawsociety.org.nz/
http://www.lawfoundation.org.nz/
