<p>Hello,
I would like to move to Canada sometime soon, and I would like to practice law. How do the Law schools in Canada work? Are they straight from High school or is an undergrad degree needed? I will be attending NYu soon so would it make sense to finish Undergrad and then go to Canada for law school, or do law school here and then move to Canada and try to find a job there. Thanks</p>
<p>You cannot be admitted to law school straight from high school. You’ll need an undergrad degree first. Keep in mind that very few Americans come to Canada for law school, and those who do almost always have dual citizenship. International fees are ~35% higher, which may be part of the reason but there are also going to be issues surrounding immigration and the ability to work both in summers and upon graduation. There’s an articling requirement in order to practice in Canada and some employers may not be interested in working their way through those processes when there will be an abundance of excellent candidates who will not require it. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen but it’s rare.</p>
<p>If you get a JD in the U.S. with the intention of practicing in Canada, please know that you will have to go through the accreditation process which may require several exams and usually takes a year or more, after which you will still be required to secure an articling position and also write the bar exams. The immigration issues will still be there, should you not be a dual citizen. Again, not a complete barrier but it will not be an easy path.</p>
<p>Good luck with your plan. Canada is a wonderful place to live so I understand your desire. :)</p>
<p>Thanks for your reply. Just one question, the articling requirement is only for people who came to Canada from the US? I thought everyone had to do it upon graduation from a Canadian law school</p>
<p>Also, would the path be any easier if I was to transfer to an Undergraduate Canadian School Like McGill or UofT in a year or so?</p>
<p>The articling requirement is for everyone who wants to practice here. I’m not sure how a transfer to U of T or McGill would make the path easier. 
You’d still be faced with the same immigration issue and would have to pay international fees for your undergrad, too. I’m assuming that you do not have dual citizenship since you have not indicated otherwise.</p>
<p>nope i do not. Thanks for all your help!</p>