Introduction
New York and London have traditionally been major trade centers for cross-border legal transactions. Thus, providing greater opportunity for attorneys desiring to globalize their legal careers than many other cities. But now there’s another viable path for foreign-educated U.S. LL.M. graduates looking to broaden their professional horizons, especially in the area of international arbitration.
On Feb. 10, 2022, the United States Supreme Court amended the Bar admissions process for the state of Florida. Foreign-educated applicants now need only provide evidence they have been practicing law in another U.S. jurisdiction for two years rather than 10 to sit the Florida Bar Exam. The ruling applies to applicants with an LL.M. from an ABA-accredited law school who are in good standing, can show previous work experience in the legal field and meet other criteria adopted by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners.
The Case for Florida
Did you know that the same things that make Miami, Fla., a popular international tourist destination also make it an ideal venue for arbitration? Plenty of direct flights to and from Latin America and the Caribbean, a multilingual professional workforce and lower costs compared to other hubs such as New York and London. By and large, Florida companies that do business in the Latin America and Caribbean region say they save time and money arbitrating disputes in Miami.
Miami as the gateway to this region means Florida-qualified lawyers often have the opportunity to work with international teams to share global knowledge and local expertise with arbitration colleagues in places like Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Peru. Other areas of cross-border strength for attorneys practicing in Miami include Regulatory and Compliance, International Trade, Corporate Finance and Capital Markets.
Your Path to Miami
While many foreign-educated U.S. LL.M. graduates move forward with licensure in New York or California, BARBRI helps students pass the bar exam in all 50 states.
Here’s more information about the Florida Bar Exam. Ready to prepare for the Florida Bar Exam Now? BARBRI Bar Review is here for you.
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