Career Crossroads at 36: Law vs. Accounting – Which Path Leads to Success in New Zealand and Beyond?

hi there,

I am a 36-year-old qualified lawyer with 12 years of experience practising law in Sri Lanka and some consulting experience in Singapore, though I did not hold a practising licence there. I recently migrated to New Zealand, where I am exploring career options. My long-term goal is to work in either New Zealand or Australia.

I am torn between two paths: 1. Pursue a second law degree (such as one recognised in Singapore and New Zealand) to rectify practice-related issues and potentially gain admission to practise law in both countries. This would allow me to leverage my prior legal experience in Sri Lanka and broaden my options in New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore.

2.  Switch to a new field, such as accounting or finance, which may offer quicker access to earning opportunities since the transition may not require the same rigorous licensing requirements as law. This would also allow me to diversify my skills and career opportunities

Given my age 36, prior experience, and goals of maximising earning potential while settling in New Zealand or Australia, which path would you recommend? Should I build upon my legal foundation or pivot into a new sector entirely?