• Commonwealth:
• News:
• News Archive Search:
• Working as a lawyer in the development sector

Working as a lawyer in the development sector

5 February 2008

Students at University College London learn about the Secretariat’s legal work in Commonwealth countries

In an increasingly competitive market, with positions in many law firms attracting a large number of applicants, some law graduates are facing uncertainty regarding potential avenues of work in their chosen profession.

Speaking to students at University College London on 22 January 2008, Kevin Maguire, Legal Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat, cited the development sector as one avenue that can potentially provide a rewarding alternative for legal professionals.

Using the Secretariat as an example, he explained how its Legal and Constitutional Affairs Division (LCAD) facilitates co-operation among member countries in the areas of constitutional and international law, in addition to the development and administration of justice systems, and combating serious and transnational crime.

The division also responds to specific requests from member countries for information and advice on legal issues and offers training to enhance the ability of legal professionals across the Commonwealth.

LCAD’s work, Mr Maguire stressed, is guided by the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles, which demarcate the relationship between parliament, the executive, and judiciary in a state. These principles outline basic standards for democratic systems of government across the Commonwealth, which the LCAD strives to promote and facilitate.

Improving the capacity of the courts to hear cases in a reasonable amount of time, is a notable aspect of the division’s work highlighted by Mr Maguire.

He said: “There are often huge delays in courts. We aim to help make courts more efficient and professional by providing legal expertise and training where it is needed.”

Mr Maguire explained to students how the Secretariat has reviewed and facilitated the printing of a court handbook in Zambia. In addition to this handbook, the Secretariat trained the individual in charge of court administration for Zambia, in order to equip him with the necessary skills to improve the speed and efficiency with which court cases are dealt with.