What this life looks like
You are the advocate standing between people and injustice. Lawyers advise clients on their legal rights, draft documents, negotiate settlements, and represent clients before courts and tribunals. It is one of Africa's most respected and in-demand professions — and every sector from business to government to civil society needs qualified legal professionals.
What she actually does
You meet clients, understand their legal problems, research applicable laws and precedents, advise on options and risks, draft contracts and legal documents, negotiate on behalf of clients, represent them in court hearings, and follow cases through to resolution. Solicitors typically handle transactional and advisory work; barristers specialise in courtroom advocacy.
Where you can work
| Sector | Places in Africa |
|---|---|
| Private Law Firms | Aluko & Oyebode (Nigeria), Bowmans (Pan-Africa), Webber Wentzel (SA), Coulson Harney (Kenya), Udo Udoma & Belo-Osagie |
| Government & Public Sector | State ministries of justice, National Prosecuting Authority (SA), Office of the Attorney General (Nigeria/Kenya) |
| International Organisations | UN Legal Division, ICC, International Court of Justice, African Court on Human Rights (ACHPR) |
| Corporate Legal Teams | Every major company in Africa has an in-house legal department — Dangote, MTN, Safaricom, Standard Bank |
Why it matters in Africa
Africa's growing economies, expanding corporate sectors, and increasing individual rights consciousness are creating enormous demand for lawyers. Every business transaction, property deal, employment dispute, family breakdown, and criminal matter requires legal expertise. The continent's legal systems — a mix of common law, civil law, and customary law — create unique and fascinating practice environments.
Your pathway in
- Excel in English, History, and Social Sciences at school — strong writing and analytical skills are essential
- Study Law (LLB) at university — most African countries require an undergraduate law degree
- Complete your professional training: Bar Finals (Nigeria/Ghana), Advocates training (Kenya/East Africa), or LPC/Bar Course (South Africa)
- Pupil or train under an experienced lawyer before being called to the Bar or admitted as a solicitor
- Develop a practice area specialism: corporate, criminal, family, human rights, or public interest law
Skills you will need
- Legal research and analysis
- Oral and written advocacy
- Negotiation
- Client counselling
- Attention to detail
- Emotional intelligence
A woman in this field
Chief Folake Solanke, SAN
Nigeria
Chief Folake Solanke is a trailblazing Nigerian lawyer and a "lady of many firsts" within the legal profession. In 1981, she became the first female Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), making her the first Nigerian woman to wear the "silk gown" as Senior Counsel. She served as the 42nd International President of Zonta International, becoming the first non-Caucasian and first African to hold the position since the organization's founding in 1919.
Take your first step
- Enter a moot court competition at school or university — practising oral argument is the fastest way to develop advocacy skills
- Read the constitution of your country from cover to cover — understanding your fundamental law is essential for every lawyer
- Research how to get into law school in your country and what the admission requirements are
- Follow the African Bar Association and national bar associations on social media to understand the profession