Law Career Illusions: Are Young Lawyers in Fiji Struggling?

During the Fiji Law Society annual convention in Nadi, Attorney-General Graham Leung revealed that some lawyers in Fiji are earning wages as low as $200 per week. Reflecting on the legal landscape, he noted that when he first joined the Bar 42 years ago, there were no law schools in Fiji, thus requiring aspiring lawyers to pursue their studies abroad.

Currently, the legal education environment has changed significantly, with three universities producing law graduates in substantial numbers. However, this surge in graduates has not been met with an increase in available legal positions. Mr. Leung highlighted the challenges faced by young lawyers, including some who are still seeking full-time employment years after they have qualified.

He expressed concern for those who entered the legal profession with the hope of a lucrative career and the prestige associated with it, only to encounter an economic reality that can be disheartening. When Mr. Leung began his career, there were around 300 lawyers in Fiji. Today, the number has risen to approximately 2,366 individuals listed as legal practitioners, yet only about 1,115 hold current practicing certificates. He raised the question of where those not actively practicing are, suggesting a disconnect between the number of graduates and viable career opportunities.

While the current state of the legal profession in Fiji presents several challenges, there is potential for growth and improvement. As more law schools open and regulatory frameworks evolve, there may be new opportunities for young lawyers to find their niche within the field. The legal sector could benefit from targeted initiatives to create more job openings and support for newly qualified professionals, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and rewarding environment for legal practitioners in Fiji.

Summary: Attorney-General Graham Leung reported at a convention that some lawyers in Fiji earn as little as $200 per week due to a saturation of law graduates and a lack of legal job opportunities. He highlighted the disparity between the increased number of practitioners and the limited available positions, suggesting a need for more jobs in the legal field to support new lawyers entering the profession.