Complete list of Grade 10 subjects for law in South Africa
Being a lawyer in South Africa could make for an exciting career. Before you pack your bags, you must jump through various hoops. For aspiring legal professionals, understanding the requirements for this career path is vital to realising this dream. This article highlights a list of Grade 10 subjects for law.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- The Grade 10 subjects for law in South Africa
- Where to study to become a lawyer in South Africa
- Who are the possible employers for a lawyer?
- What are the roles and responsibilities of a lawyer in South Africa?
- How long does it take to become a lawyer in South Africa?
- What are the types of law degrees?
- What are the types of law degree specializations?
- Which law specializations are in demand in South Africa?
- Which subject is best for lawyer in Grade 10?
- What subjects are needed to become a lawyer in Grade 12?
- What subjects are needed to become a lawyer in Grade 11?'
- What subjects are needed to become a prosecutor in South Africa?
- Can you study LLB after a higher certificate in law?
- Which subject is best for law in class 10?
- How much does a lawyer earn per month?
Knowing what subjects you need to become a lawyer can improve your odds of achieving this goal. Moreover, this helps you prioritise and specialise in subjects that are staples for this career path. Available Grade 10 subjects for law in South Africa PDF download provides valuable guidance for students aspiring to pursue legal careers.
The Grade 10 subjects for law in South Africa
In South African high schools, the only subjects required for law study are History, Business Studies, English, Mathematics, Government, and Life Orientation. A lawyer must have good diction, whether you take English as a First Language or English as an Additional Language.
Which subjects are required for law in grade 10 in South Africa?
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of why these disciplines are crucial for anyone pursuing a legal degree.
- English: Strong language skills are essential for legal writing and communication. English language courses will help you develop your vocabulary, grammar, and writing abilities.
- Mathematics: While not directly related to law, mathematical skills can help analyze data, understand legal calculations, and solve problems.
- History: This subject provides essential information about prior legal systems, societal norms, and constitutional advancements. It also helps pupils grasp societal shifts and human rights challenges.
- Life Orientation: This subject incorporates a component of social and environmental responsibility and human rights, which are similar to concerns found in legal studies.
- Business Studies: While optional, business studies can provide a practical understanding of business law and legal issues that arise in the business world.
- Government: Studying government systems, laws, and political processes will give you a solid foundation for understanding the legal framework and the role of the law in society.
Source: Getty Images
What requirements are needed to study law in South Africa?
The high school subject requirements for law can vary depending on the university. However, here are the general requirements to study law in South Africa for those interested in pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Law.
- A National Senior Certificate with degree admission.
- English Home Language level 5 or English First Additional Language level 6.
- Mathematical Literacy level 5 or Mathematics level 3.
- Life Orientation level 4.
- Minimum composite Academic Point Score (APS) 32, not including Life Orientation.
Students aspiring to study law at the university level should focus on obtaining a Bachelor's degree pass in their National Senior Certificate. This requires achieving at least 40% in three subjects (including one Home Language) and 30% in three additional subjects.
Universities may have additional admission criteria, so aiming for the highest possible marks in all subjects is essential. Remember, the better your academic performance in high school, the greater your chances of being accepted into your desired university and course.
Admission examination for law in South Africa
In South Africa, aspiring lawyers must pass the Admission Examination administered by the Legal Practice Council. This exam evaluates their practical skills and knowledge across four key areas:
- High Court Procedure
- Magistrates’ Court Procedure
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility
- Wills and Estates
What grades are needed to become a lawyer in South Africa?
The law's Admission Point Score (APS) may vary with different schools. Below are some of the standard grades in various institutions.
| Institution | APS score |
| University of Cape Town | 65 |
| Rhodes University | 45 |
| University of Witwatersrand | 43+ |
| Durban University of Technology | 32 |
| University of Fort Hare | 29 |
| North-West University | 28-30 |
| University of Pretoria | 28 |
| University of Johannesburg | 27 |
| University of Venda | 26 |
| Stellenbosch University | 20-25 |
Where to study to become a lawyer in South Africa
Deciding to pursue a career in law is one thing, but deciding on the best institution to do so is another. Here is a list of the best South African law schools that guarantee high standards:
- The University of Johannesburg
- Durban University of Technology
- Rhodes University
- Stellenbosch University
- The University of Witwatersrand
- The University of Cape Town
- North-West University
Who are the possible employers for a lawyer?
Lawyers have a wide range of potential employers, from government agencies to private corporations. Here are some common options:
- Law firms: Both large and small firms, ranging from general practice to specialized areas.
- Corporations: In-house legal departments handling corporate legal matters.
- Government agencies: Such as the judiciary, public defenders' offices, or regulatory bodies.
- Nonprofit organizations: Legal advocacy groups or charities needing legal expertise.
- Academic institutions: Universities or colleges, particularly in law schools or legal research.
- Private clients: Providing individual legal services and consultancy.
- Judicial clerkships: Assisting judges in courts, often as part of early career development.
What are the roles and responsibilities of a lawyer in South Africa?
In South Africa, the roles and responsibilities of a lawyer (often referred to as an attorney) are diverse and can include:
- Lawyers represent clients in various legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, and family law issues.
- They advise clients, helping them understand their legal rights and obligations.
- They prepare essential documents like contracts, wills, trusts, and pleadings.
- Lawyers investigate laws, regulations, and case precedents to support their clients' cases.
- Advising businesses on legal matters, including mergers, acquisitions, and compliance.
- Lawyers often negotiate on behalf of their clients to reach settlements or agreements without the need for litigation.
- Maintaining clear and regular communication with clients is crucial.
- Handling issues like divorce, child custody, and adoption.
How long does it take to become a lawyer in South Africa?
Becoming an attorney in South Africa takes a minimum of 6 years, four years for the LLB degree and two years of articles. Furthermore, you must complete four board exams and be admitted as an attorney by the high court of South Africa.
Source: Getty Images
What are the types of law degrees?
Most people know that becoming a lawyer requires years of college to earn a law degree, but many do not know there are several types of law degrees. This list breaks down the different kinds of law degrees:
- Juris Doctor
- Master of Legal Studies
- Master of Dispute Resolution
- Doctor of Judicial Science
- Master of Laws
What are the types of law degree specializations?
Law degrees offer a range of specializations to align with various interests and career paths. These include:
- Criminal law: Centers on laws related to crime and punishment, with careers for lawyers as prosecutors or defense attorneys.
- Family law: Addresses issues such as divorce, child custody, and alimony.
- Corporate law: Deals with legal aspects of business operations, including mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance.
- Intellectual property law: Focuses on safeguarding intellectual assets, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks.
- Environmental law: Concerns laws aimed at protecting the environment, such as regulations on pollution and conservation.
- Human rights law: Dedicated to issues of human rights and social justice.
Which law specializations are in demand in South Africa?
Due to various economic and social factors, specific law specializations are in high demand in South Africa. These include corporate law, intellectual property law, and environmental law.
Which subject is best for lawyer in Grade 10?
The best subjects for becoming a lawyer in South Africa are history, business studies, English, and life orientation. These subjects will lay a strong foundation for future studies in law.
What subjects are needed to become a lawyer in Grade 12?
To become a lawyer in Grade 12, you will typically need to focus on subjects that develop your critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. These subjects often include English, history, geography, mathematics, and a language.
What subjects are needed to become a lawyer in Grade 11?'
Common subjects that are beneficial to pursue in Grade 11 to prepare for a law career are English, mathematics, history, geography and social science.
Source: Getty Images
What subjects are needed to become a prosecutor in South Africa?
To become a prosecutor in South Africa, you need to study law. This typically involves completing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, which covers subjects like criminal law, constitutional law, evidence, and procedure.
Can you study LLB after a higher certificate in law?
A higher certificate in law can provide a foundation for advancing to further legal studies, such as an LLB degree. However, you may need to fulfil additional entry requirements, including meeting certain academic performance standards or completing specific course prerequisites.
Which subject is best for law in class 10?
English is crucial for a legal career, as law involves extensive reading, writing, and arguing. Strong English skills will give you an advantage in interpreting complex legal texts and crafting compelling arguments.
How much does a lawyer earn per month?
Lawyers' salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. The average salary for a lawyer is R 4,440 per month in South Africa. The table provides a clear breakdown of average annual salary ranges for lawyers in South Africa.
| Position | Annual salary range (ZAR) |
| Beginner lawyers | R500,000 - R700,000 |
| Associates | R650,000 - R850,000 |
| Senior associates | R850,000 - R1,400,000 |
| Partners | R1,400,000 - R2,200,000 |
| Senior partners | R2,000,000 - R3,500,000 |
Now that you know the Grade 10 subjects for law, it will help put into perspective what areas to concentrate majorly on. Worth noting is that the South African government requires that an attorney obtain a law degree, work several years in a legal setting and pass an admissions exam.
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