Keystone logo

Study Law in Paraguay

Nov 4, 2024
  • Law Studies
  • Study Abroad in South America
  • Study Abroad in Paraguay

What Is a Law Degree in Paraguay?

In order to practice law in Paraguay, students must first complete a Bachelor's Degree program, followed by graduate training at one of the country's law schools, which ends with a Masters in Law degree. These programs are still being defined as the country develops its legal education programs further.

Law Higher Education in Paraguay

Most of Paraguay's private universities are located in Asuncion. National universities are found in Pilar, Encarnacion, Coronel Oviedo, Este and San Lorenzo, but not all of these offer law degree programs. The universities typically provide their education in Spanish, but some are switching to English and courses may also be offered in Italian. A knowledge of these languages is helpful. In Paraguay, the school year runs from March to November, although sessions outside of these months may be held.

One of the benefits of studying law in Paraguay is the fact that many of the universities have placement cells. These help graduates find employment after completing their course of study. For law students, opportunities to practice law can be hard to find, but these placement cells can help students identify potential inroads to their education. That said, because of the unique nature of the Paraguay legal system, a law degree in Paraguay only qualifies a student to practice law in Paraguay. Further study is necessary to study elsewhere.

The government in Paraguay does not dictate the admission requirements for international students, so those seeking a law degree in Paraguay will be at the mercy of the school's entrance requirements. The higher education program in Paraguay is relatively new in comparison to the global education system, so the length of study and the cost of study varies from one school to the next.

Introduction to Paraguay

The Republic of Paraguay is a small landlocked country in South America sitting between Brazil, Bolivia and Argentina. The largest city, Asuncion, is also the capital of Paraguay. This country is one of the poorest in South America and is quite isolated from the rest of the world, which makes it less appealing for international students. Yet, with its unique legal system, the country has something appealing for those interested in studying and practicing law.

Paraguay boasts a subtropical climate, with more temperate weather in the southern half of the country compared to the northern half. The people of Paraguay are not wealthy, but they are deeply religious. Because of the country's economy, the stressors associated with poverty dominate much of the country's culture. The country's economy also means that the cost of living in Paraguay is low, which can be a benefit to those who are considering studying within the country.

What Is the Law System in Paraguay

The legal system is also an inquisitorial system with the Supreme Court serving as the highest law of the land. The laws of the land are based largely on the Argentine and French codes. In Paraguay, Jurisprudence is the source of the law, although the country technically follows its constitution. Yet the tradition of the court is what dictates the practice of the law. The court's decisions passed down over the years are the foundation whereby future courts will pass judgment. Because of this, the judicial branch in Paraguay has a significant amount of power.

Keystone Team

Author

The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.