If I Do PGD In Law With HND Accounting, Am I Automatically Regarded As A Lawyer?
No, completing a PGD in Law with an HND in Accounting does not automatically make you a lawyer in Nigeria or any other jurisdiction. Here’s why:
1. Who is Recognized as a Lawyer in Nigeria?
To be officially regarded as a lawyer in Nigeria, you must:
- Earn an LL.B (Bachelor of Laws): This is a prerequisite degree in law from an accredited university.
- Attend Law School: After obtaining an LL.B, you must attend the Nigerian Law School and pass the Bar Final Examinations.
- Be Called to the Bar: This ceremony formally qualifies you as a lawyer, allowing you to practice law in Nigeria.
- Obtain a Practicing License: Only after being called to the bar are you authorized to practice as a barrister or solicitor.
A PGD in Law does not fulfill these requirements. Instead, it is an academic qualification that provides foundational legal knowledge.
2. What Can You Do with a PGD in Law?
While a PGD in Law won’t make you a lawyer, it can still open doors in legal and law-related fields. With a PGD in Law, you may work in roles such as:
- Legal Consultant: Advising on specific areas of law (e.g., tax law, corporate compliance) based on your expertise and experience.
- Compliance Officer: Ensuring that companies follow laws and regulations, especially in finance and accounting-related areas.
- Paralegal or Legal Assistant: Supporting legal teams by conducting research, drafting documents, and performing administrative tasks.
- Policy Advisor: Assisting organizations in interpreting and implementing legal and regulatory frameworks.
- NGO or Advocacy Work: Working in human rights, governance, or public health initiatives that require legal knowledge.
3. If You Want to Become a Lawyer
If you’re determined to become a fully qualified lawyer, here’s what you need to do after completing your PGD in Law:
- Apply for an LL.B Program:
- Your PGD in Law might allow you to enter a university’s law program at an advanced level, but this depends on the institution’s policy.
- Some universities may waive a few courses, shortening the duration of your LL.B program.
- Attend the Nigerian Law School:
- After completing your LL.B, you must attend the Law School and pass the Bar Final Exams.
- Get Called to the Bar:
- This is the official process that makes you a licensed lawyer.
4. Why PGD in Law is Useful for HND Holders
While it doesn’t make you a lawyer, a PGD in Law can still be highly beneficial for the following:
- Transitioning into Legal Fields: It provides a stepping stone for further studies or careers in law-related areas.
- Expanding Career Opportunities: With your accounting background, you could specialize in tax law, financial regulations, or corporate governance.
- Building Legal Knowledge: It helps you understand the legal aspects of business, finance, and other industries.
5. Conclusion
A PGD in Law is an academic qualification that provides foundational legal knowledge, but it does not confer the status of a lawyer or allow you to practice law in Nigeria. To become a lawyer, you must complete an LL.B, attend the Nigerian Law School, and be called to the bar. However, with a PGD in Law, you can still pursue many law-related roles or use it as a stepping stone toward becoming a lawyer.
