The course includes self-paced materials and live sessions available for on-demand viewing
The International Bar Association (IBA) has launched a new online training initiative, the International Legal Practice Program, in partnership with three leading law schools.
The program, developed in collaboration with FGV Sao Paulo Law School in Brazil, King’s College London in the UK, and IE University School of Law in Spain, aims to equip legal professionals with an in-depth understanding of international legal frameworks, cross-border transactions, and dispute resolution.
The program will be taught in English from October 29, 2024, to April 22, 2025. Live classes will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to accommodate participants in various time zones. The course is structured around self-paced learning materials and live interactive sessions that are also available for on-demand viewing.
The initiative marks the completion of one of the five key priorities set by current IBA president Almudena Arpón de Mendívil Aldama. In collaboration with former IBA president Fernando Peláez-Pier and IBA head of operations Joe Bell, the program aims to address the need for more comprehensive cross-border legal training. Speaking on the program, President Arpón de Mendívil emphasized the IBA’s commitment to preparing young lawyers for a dynamic and global legal environment. “The younger generation of lawyers is not only the future but already the present of the legal profession. This program fills a gap in cross-border training that national regulations often limit. Teaming up with leading law schools across the world was essential to achieve this goal,” Mendívil said in a statement.
Peláez-Pier echoed these sentiments, noting the evolving nature of international legal practice. He stated, “The global marketplace is evolving, and it is vital that lawyers working across jurisdictions stay abreast of current developments while having a thorough grounding in the foundations of international legal practice. This program is a must for all those practicing law internationally.”
The course curriculum features four modules, each consisting of nine units. Participants can expect to spend 10 to 15 hours on each unit over a period of two and a half weeks. The combination of live classes, real-world case studies, and self-paced content aims to deliver a comprehensive understanding of key legal principles and their practical applications. Upon completion, participants will receive certificates from the IBA and the three partner universities.
The program also places emphasis on flexibility to accommodate participants from around the world. Live sessions are offered twice at different times to suit various schedules, and all sessions are recorded for later viewing. Participants can also engage in collaborative activities and discussion forums at their own pace.
The IBA’s initiative aims to support legal professionals in building a global network of peers while fostering skills in strategic legal thinking and cross-border legal challenges. By partnering with these prestigious institutions, the IBA seeks to offer a comprehensive educational experience tailored to the complexities of modern international legal practice.
