The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Legal Intern / Volunteer (IHL/Human Rights)
6-12 monthsSkills to master
- Basic legal research, document organisation, understanding of IHL principles, professional communication.
You're ready to move on when
- You can independently conduct basic legal research and summarise findings accurately.
- You consistently follow instructions and meet deadlines for administrative tasks.
- You demonstrate a strong ethical compass and discretion with sensitive information.
- You've shown a keen interest in IHL through your choice of projects or personal learning.
- 2
Paralegal / Legal Assistant (Public Law/Human Rights)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Case file management, drafting legal documents, client intake processes, attention to detail under pressure.
You're ready to move on when
- You're proficient in managing legal documentation and maintaining organised case files.
- You can draft routine legal correspondence and sections of reports with minimal supervision.
- You've handled sensitive information with appropriate confidentiality and care.
- You're comfortable working in a fast-paced legal environment and juggling multiple tasks.
- 3
Academic Researcher / Research Assistant (International Law)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- In-depth academic research, critical analysis of legal texts, scholarly writing, bibliography management.
You're ready to move on when
- You've produced high-quality, well-referenced research papers or reports.
- You can critically analyse complex legal arguments and identify different schools of thought.
- You're adept at using academic databases and legal citation styles.
- You're comfortable working independently on long-term research projects.