British Expatriate Network

Hi Everyone -

My husband and I are in the early stages of planning our move from England to the US. He is a solictor in England at the moment. I'm wondering if anyone on the board went from being a solicitor in England to being an attorney in the US, and if so, I'd love to hear what you had to do to make this happen. I'm assuming we'll need to contact the BAR association of whatever state we move to and they'll lay out the instructions on what he needs to do. But I'm also wondering about how difficult the transition was for any of you guys that have done this. Was it difficult learning new laws and practicing law in a new country? I'd really like to hear about your experience, if you don't mind.

Thanks in advance!

Thought this might be of interest even though it is 6 years old and deals mainly with the London LL.B graduates.

http//www.malet.com/london.htm

Hi PGT,

I'm certainly no expert on this, but a friend gave us some information when we moved back. Sophie did her law courses, but was working in IP when we left England. The information we were given seemed to indicate that a years conversion course and the bar exam would be required. She’s completely burnt out on the whole law education thing and seems quite content to work as a paralegal, so I can’t say from experience what is required. I’m sure someone else will be able to give you more specific and personal information.

Oh, and welcome aboard!

I have a friend who did this (Northern Ireland to Michigan). I know she had to take the bar exams here and I get the impression she found it tedious but not hard, but she has now stopped working to raise a family. Next time I see her (which should be soon with Christmas coming up) I'll try to remember to ask her about it. I don't know what happens about visas, though -she got a green card through marriage to an American.

I'm not around mush because I'm busy. i was a Solicitor in London but now practice in NH. The rule vary between states. Feel free to PM me and I'll be happy to offer any help I can.

Hi Rob -

I have PM'd you. We would love to hear more about your experience and ask you some questions, if you don't mind!

Thanks!!

I've emailed you, please feel free to send me any questions and I hope my experience will be helpful to you both.