Law at Otago is a professional degree. If you wish to be admitted to the bar to practice as a barrister and solicitor, you must undertake a professional legal studies course. This ensures that lawyers entering all areas of practice are equipped with the skills required to represent clients competently and ethically.
In New Zealand, the College of Law and the Institute of Professional Legal Studies both offer approved programmes of study.
- Institute of Professional Legal Studies website
- College of Law website
The New Zealand Council of Legal Education (NZCLE) is the independent statutory body responsible for the quality and provision of legal training in New Zealand.
New Zealand Council of Legal Education website
Admission as a barrister and solicitor
For admission as a barrister and solicitor, you will need to provide evidence of your good character and fitness for legal practice. Students who have doubts about satisfying this requirement should contact the Dean or the President of their Law Society, earlier rather than later.