In the Cayman Islands qualified attorneys from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada or certain other Caribbean jurisdictions vie for some of the best jobs at the top firms.
The legal industry in the Cayman has grown exponentially over the last 10 years. Existing law firms have steadily increased headcount and there has been an influx of new law firms to the jurisdiction in recent years. Accordingly, the demand for attorneys, paralegals and legal secretaries remains very steady.
The most sought-after practice areas for legal professionals are Corporate, Finance, Investment Funds, Commercial Litigation, Insolvency and Private Wealth. There is also a smaller market for Property, Family, Employment, Criminal, In-House, and commercial/IP lawyers.
Unless you are Caymanian, you must have 3 years PQE in your home jurisdiction in order to be eligible for admission to the Cayman Bar. If a Cayman firm cannot find a qualified local candidate they will look to recruit from overseas and will often interview candidates at the 2.5PQE mark with a view to a work permit being submitted just after the candidate crosses the 3 year PQE mark. The 3 years PQE must have been gained at a top firm in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada or certain other Caribbean jurisdictions.
The top Cayman Islands law firms consistently advise on high caliber, cross border matters and transactions. As such, they seek to hire their staff from top tier international law firms when they cannot source locally. Cayman attorneys are some of the highest paid attorneys in the world, with many firms offering high tax-free salaries, attractive bonus schemes, relocation costs and some of the best benefits packages on island. Retention rates are high and most firms offer good career progression opportunities.
Many of the top firms on the Island find their professional staff through recruitment agencies, so it is advisable to reach out to a local agency to get an in-depth understanding of the market, cultural and operating differences between the firms, advise on your prospects, and appropriate salary for someone with your experience and qualifications.
Attorneys & Law Firmskeyboard_arrow_right
There are a couple of ways to apply for legal jobs in the Cayman Islands. You can either research Cayman's law firms in the list below and contact them directory, or you can register with a recruitment company, many of which specialise in recruiting for the legal services industry.
Read MoreRecruitment & Employment Agencieskeyboard_arrow_right
Grand Cayman have a few very professional and very experienced recruitment firms who can help you find a job in the Cayman Islands. They can also give you detailed answers to any questions you might have about salaries, commission, benefits and relocation packages. They understand that there is a lot to weigh up when considering a move to a different jurisdiction.