The legal profession thrives on diversity and collaboration. Internationally Trained Lawyers (“ITLs”) bring invaluable perspectives shaped by global experience and legal systems. However, navigating the process of hiring professionals who have completed their education and training outside of Canada can be challenging for firms, in-house counsel and recruiters. This results in ITLs facing barriers in securing articling and associate positions, in addition to the other unique challenges they encounter.
The CBA Alberta Internationally Trained Lawyer Hiring Guide for Firms (the “Guide”) is designed to provide law firms, legal professionals, and human resource professionals with the tools to effectively identify and collaborate with internationally trained legal talent. This Guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Throughout this Guide the term “Firm” is used, however it is not intended to be exclusionary. The term “Firm” includes law firms, solo practitioners looking to hire lawyers, and organizations (public, private or nonprofit) that employ lawyers to work as legal counsel.
This Guide covers four essential topics:
- Accreditation of ITLs - general information on the process of obtaining accreditation to practice law in Alberta, including information on the National Committee on Accreditation and various other pathways for licensing.
- Inclusive Hiring Practices - Suggested practices for employers and human resources professionals to recruit and integrate ITLs.
- Value of ITLs to the legal profession - Exploring the unique perspectives, skills and expertise that ITLs bring to the legal profession.
- Additional Resources - A collection of additional resources to assist ITLs and employers in accessing further support and information on this topic
The resources in this Guide aim to foster an inclusive and vibrant legal community in Alberta, where the contributions of ITLs are recognized and celebrated. By embracing the strengths of ITLs Alberta’s legal profession can continue to grow and thrive.
We thank the 2024–25 and 2025-26 CBA Alberta Equity Diversity & Inclusion Committee (the “Committee”) members, and the Committee’s ITL Working Group, for their contributions to this Guide.