Page 178 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Lawyers typically work on a full-time basis, although longer hours may be expected especially when under pressure to meet deadlines.
Occupation data
Entry level education / special licences / warrants
To practice as a Lawyer, a qualification at MQF Level 7 is required. Training programmes include:
• Master of Advocacy (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
After successful completion and prior to sitting for the warrant exams, graduates are expected to have carried out some practical experience with a law firm for at least one year. Once graduates successfully pass the warrant exams and are approved by two Judges, they will be able to practice law in Malta.
For further details on specific entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the respective educational institution’s website.
Qualifications awarded by foreign bodies need to be recognised or pegged with a particular MQF Level by the MQRIC office within NCFHE.
Graduates typically enter this profession as Interns, Trainees or Junior Associates in legal firms and continue their career within the firm as Lawyers hired to conduct legal services for the firm’s clients.
Knowledge and skills
Lawyers are expected to have:
• An understanding of the workings of courts
• Knowledge of national laws and the relevant
international legislation
• The ability to understand complex language
and terminology
• Proficiency in the Maltese language (which
is the language of the Law Courts)
• Analytical and interpretive skills
• Legal research skills and writing skills
• Public speaking skills and the ability to
present cases in court
• Business and financial skills (in case of
self-employment)
• The ability to maintain client confidentiality
Transferable skills should include:
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication skills in English and Maltese
• IT skills
• Organisational and planning skills
• Problem solving and decision making skills
• Time management and multitasking skills
• The ability to work under pressure and
adhere to tight deadlines
• The ability to work independently and as part
of a team
• Leadership skills
Additional qualities
These may include:
• A high level of ambition and drive
• A solution-oriented approach
• Accuracy
• Attention to detail
• Critical thinking skills
• Flexibility
• Inquisitiveness
• Methodical
Number of employees (2017)
491
Share of foreigners (2017)
10%
Job Outlook (2018 - 2022)
+30%
Median Pay (per annum)
€26,800
Jobsplus
178