Study to work in the law field in HK

[HKHK154]

I'm recently looking into study again.. and I've been looking at the requirements to practice law in Hong Kong etc etc.

From what I can see, as I'll be looking into post-graduate courses I have a few options. I am very curious about 'The Common Professional Examination/Graduate Diploma in Law (CPE/GDL)' There is also a similar course in HK called a 'Graduate Diploma in English and Hong Kong Law (GDEHKL)'.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graduate_Diploma_in_Law

I believe that this is recognised as being equivalent to a bachelor of laws / JD in terms of being able to sit the PCLL in Hong Kong. I am wondering has anyone here actually attempted this? Are there any benefits of this rather than doing a JD or something?

Is it accepted overseas in places like Australia, New Zealand and common law jurisdictions?

[iliketurtles]

Very quick answer to your question: Yes, the CPE/GDL is required as a precursor to sitting the PCLL. No, it won't be accepted anywhere else - you will have to do the equivalent in that jurisdiction.

The CPE/GDL is for students who already have a non-LLB bachelors degree. There's no point in you obtaining an LLB and then sitting the PCLL if you already have a uni degree.

I have friends who did the GDL after having obtained non-law bachelors. They said it was pretty tough but they all passed it first time.

I did the LPC back in the UK (the follow on if you obtain an LLB) - it is a really tough year, much tougher than Uni law exams. Try to give yourself as much time and preparation as you can before starting the PCLL which I imagine will be a similar standard.