Study Law in South Africa

What Is the Law Degree in South Africa?

Obtaining a law degree in South Africa is necessary for individuals who wish to practice in the country. The LL.B. degree is the necessary degree qualification for individuals who wish to enroll as an Advocate or an Attorney in the country. Students who wish to get started may be entered directly in these programs at the undergraduate level, though the program is also available as a post graduate plan as well.

Law Higher Education in the Country?

Working as an Advocate or an Attorney in South Africa requires obtaining a degree in the field of law. In most cases, this is done as a bachelor's degree in the country. Programs last for between two and for years to obtain a Bachelor of Laws. It is not required, but is encouraged, that students work towards an LL.M. program upon obtaining their bachelor's degree. Additionally, the LL.D. and PhD programs are also available beyond the master's programs.

Students study law in South Africa to work in this field, since it is a requirement. Their course of study includes a focus on both practical and textbook education, that is how to work as an Attorney as well as how the legal system works in the country. Court law history is a focus.

Attorneys may work as a Notary or Conveyancer as well after obtaining their specialize training. Students will need to sit for and pass the required licensing exam to be a member of the Bar Association. It is a requirement that anyone selling their services as an Attorney in the country be a member of the Bar Association.

The tuition to law school here ranges significantly. It is set by any of the numerous schools that provide accredited programs. Generally, programs last for four years. International law students are welcome in most of the universities in the country. However, application for these programs must be made directly by the international student to the school and approval is likely only when availability within programs exist. In some colleges and universities here, it is hard to find available space.

After graduating, students can continue their education to obtain a PhD or other higher level of degree in the field. Many students enter the workforce and provide legal services to consumers. However, others can go on to teach in the field or to work in judicial positions (after obtaining experience in the field.) Often times, the student will continue his or her study alongside building a career in this field.

About South Africa

South Africa is a country located at the southern tip of the continent of Africa. It sits along the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans and is near Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. It is the 25th largest country in the world by area has is home to more than 53 million people. South Africa is very much a multi-ethnic country with various languages and cultures. More than 11 languages are present here, including English and Afrikaans. In this upper middle income economy, there are plenty of opportunities for those who wish to study law.

What Is the Law System in South Africa?

The South African legal system is a mixture of various styles. There is a civil law component that stems from the Dutch law system. Common law is also present here, and is much like that found in Britain. A customary law system also exist. Overall, the country follows a criminal and civil law structure with constitutional law. The court system in the country includes Magistrates' Courts, High Courts, Constitutional Courts, and the Supreme Court of Appeal.