Language for law

Demostenes provides language training for law in English, German and French. In the English language we also offer exam preparation courses for TOLES (Test Of Legal English Skills) and ILEC (International Legal English Certificate).

The TOLES examination tests key language skills (reading, writing and understanding of the spoken word) through such activities as:

formulation of legal documents
understanding of professional documentation
creation of official letters and communication by means of email
use of the legal language applied in international trade
correct application of grammatical structures

The examination is offered in two forms:

TOLES Foundation - up to intermediate level (B1)
TOLES Advanced - from upper-intermediate level (B2)

Knowledge of the language is assessed by means of a points system; those passing receive a certificate indicating the number of points gained.

The ILEC examination consists of four parts:

Reading – 1 hour 15 min., six tasks covering a total of 54 questions
Writing – 1 hour 15 min., two tasks
Listening – 40 min., four parts, 30 questions
Speaking – 16 min., four parts, taken in pairs and assessed by two examiners

The examination covers two levels of the Common European Framework, B2 and C1.

For the convenience of our students the examination may be taken on site, with selection of the date also possible.

Participation in these courses offers the opportunity to become acquainted with English, German and French legal terminology, as well as that for European Communities law in these languages. Those interested will be sent the prospectus A Language School for Law which discusses the assumptions of the programme and the methods utilised in the conduct of courses.