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Navigating dual qualification: My legal journey from Poland to England & Wales
Pursuing a dual qualification may not be the easiest path and can present its challenges, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. There’s a significant amount of studying required, and at times it can feel like an endless journey. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. For anyone considering this path, rest assured that the exam preparation will eventually come to an end. It will be succeeded by even more daily research.
The path to qualification in Poland: 5 years + 3 years + 4 days
In Poland, the road to becoming a qualified legal practitioner is rather lengthy. It begins with a five-year law programme and obtaining a master’s degree in law. After graduating from law, you need to pass an entrance exam to start the three-year training. I spent most of my traineeship in court representing clients on various matters. It was not just encouraged but expected. I have always found joy in it and have gained a wealth of experience. This hands-on experience, though challenging, was invaluable. It provided trainees with the practical skills and confidence. During my training, the court became a second home. The training phase is marked by several exams, ultimately leading to an intense four-day Bar exam. This exam, which lasts between 6 to 8 hours each day, measures not only knowledge but also endurance. I am aware that some other European jurisdictions follow a comparable path.
From one qualification to dual qualification
In Poland, advocates have to be self-employed, so a natural step is setting up your own practice. I also took that step and opened an office in the heart of the Old Town in Gdańsk. I didn't stay there for long, as I decided to follow my dream of relocating to London. I had been contemplating this since I was 15, and it took me over 15 years to finally make it happen. For those considering a move abroad, I hope your decision-making process is more efficient.
When I started working for a law firm in London, every day was full of surprises. I realised lawyers would often focus on niche areas of law and specialise, while in Poland most of us had a more varied practice. In Poland, I worked mostly on criminal, family, and inheritance matters, but I also occasionally handled commercial litigation and business-related issues. I was surprised to see that many lawyers in London seemed to be specialising in one field.
One more aspect that genuinely surprised me was the fact that many solicitors did not do any advocacy. After spending several years in London, I realised that it largely depends on the type of firm and that some solicitors do appear in court. However, back then, it was a bit confusing to me.
Crossing over to the England & Wales jurisdiction introduced me to a legal system with its own unique characteristics. My work in Poland especially given my background in advocacy, aligned more closely with the role of a barrister. Yet, my client interactions mirrored the responsibilities of a solicitor. It took me quite some time to grasp the division of roles and the split profession in England and Wales. In Poland, despite having two separate professions: advocates and attorneys at law, their roles often overlap, with no strict division akin to the solicitor-barrister split in England and Wales.
Adapting to the new role
The flexibility in Poland enabled me to tailor my career path, allowing me to engage in both courtroom advocacy and office-based legal tasks. Adapting to the firm structure in England was initially quite a challenge, but I was fortunate to be surrounded by supportive colleagues. I also realised that the nature of a firm significantly influences a lawyer's career path. After spending several years working for law firms, I moved to the charity sector, and I now work with vulnerable clients from Eastern Europe. Lots of my clients are from Poland, and I believe this kind of work allows me to make the most of my dual qualification. I also provide training for foreign lawyers and students who want to use Legal English at work.
Similarities across borders
Despite jurisdictional differences, the core of legal practice remains remarkably consistent. At the heart of both Polish and English legal systems lies a commitment to justice, client advocacy, and ethical practice. Whether in Warsaw or London, we all encounter similar challenges, including frequent changes in legislation, backlogs, access to justice challenges and the impact of burnout or vicarious trauma. For those on the commercial side, managing client expectations remains crucial, regardless of their geographical location.
Advice for aspiring dual-qualified lawyers
For those contemplating dual qualification, it is important to understand the commitment and resilience required. The journey is undeniably long and demanding, involving countless hours of study and adaptation to new legal environments. For those certain of their desire to practice abroad, an early decision to relocate can streamline the process, avoiding long training. I often felt that I wasn't making the most of my dual qualification, and that moving to England after university would have been a much easier path. Making a move at the age of 15 could have been even more advantageous!
But while transitioning between jurisdictions may initially seem like a loss of previously acquired knowledge, many skills are transferable. Advocacy, client relationship management, and business development are invaluable assets in any legal setting. However, those moving to the new country must be prepared for the cultural and professional adjustments required when entering a new legal system.
Broadening horizons
Working with foreign lawyers and mentoring students has enriched my professional experience, and I always encourage others to broaden their horizons. The journey of dual qualification requires dedication, time, and an openness to new experiences. Moving to England introduced me to a system that was unfamiliar, and the transition from running my own practice to becoming a junior employee in a firm in London was challenging. Recognition of foreign qualifications can be a slow process, and it took me a few years to cross-qualify as a solicitor. While the journey to dual qualification was undoubtedly filled with challenges, it was also incredibly rewarding, and I have always been grateful for that opportunity.
Aleksandra Kowalska
Legal Counsel, EERC
Founder, Alex Legal English
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kowalska/