How to Become a Criminal Lawyer and the Education Required in Australia
- 1). Obtain a law degree (LLB). This is an undergraduate degree that applicants can enter upon graduating high school or obtaining high school equivalency. If you already have an undergraduate degree, some schools in Australia offer the degree of Juris Doctor (JD), which is a shorter route to obtaining a law degree only for people with a previous degree. During your degree, take criminal law courses.
- 2). Gain practical work experience. During summers, or even during semesters, work experience is required in what is commonly known as a vocation clerkship. Focus on criminal law firms in order to secure your standing as a criminal lawyer.
- 3). Take a standardized test called Practical Legal Training (PLT). Studying for the PLT helps teach basic skills that lawyers complete on a regular basis. Some law schools combine PLT courses with an undergraduate law degree, while others have it as a separate course.
- 4). Obtain a practicing certificate. The application is available online.