International Legal Exchange Committee (ILEX)
ILEX was created under the proposition that a worldwide exchange of ideas and programs will lead to a heightened level of learning and understanding for all. Since 1968, this concept has motivated ILEX's programs and allowed the creation of new projects in response to current world affairs. Through ILEX, the ABA arranges Briefing Trips throughout the world, offers legal assistance and training for foreign lawyers and other professionals, and facilitates entry into the United States by foreign attorneys who have been offered training by U.S. law firms.
I. J-1 Visas for Visiting Foreign Lawyers
While ILEX does not place foreign lawyers with U.S. firms it assists those who have been offered training by a law firm or legal office. It assists them by certifying their eligibility for exchange visitor status under the J-1 visa program, thus facilitating their entry into the United States.
II. Country Briefing Trips for Legal Professionals
These visits provide participants with first-hand knowledge of the legal and judicial systems of the particular host country or region, often focusing on trade and investment issues. The trips also provide a unique opportunity for delegation members to interact with legal, business, and governmental leaders of the countries visited and to develop personal and professional contacts throughout the world. ILEX organizes these trips in coordination with the government or bar association of the host country, specifically drawing on the expertise of Section members. ILEX organizes an outbound trip (to a foreign country or region) each year.
III. Briefing or Specialized Programs for Foreign Legal Professionals acquainted with the U.S. Legal System
ILEX arranges programs and meetings for prominent foreign lawyers, judges, and scholars with legal professionals in the United States. This program allows foreign nationals to study a particular area of U.S. jurisprudence, to learn more about the ABA, and to become better acquainted with the U.S. legal system.
International Projects Navigation
For more of the Section of International Law's international projects, see the FEED webpage.
Parlez-Vous Français?
Registration Form
ILRC Annual Report
Rule of Law Panel Series
On April 16th, 2009, the ABA-UNDP International Legal Resource Center (ILRC) co-hosted a program with various entities within the ABA Section of International Law, the ABA Center for Human Rights, and the Law Society of England & Wales on “Upholding the Rule of Law for the World’s Poor: Who is Responsible?” For panel details, click here.



Picture 1: Panelist Christopher Avery (United Kingdom)
Picture 2: From left to right, panelists Caroline Sage (World Bank) , Maria Virginia Bras Gomes (UN ICESCR Committee), Ashan Zahir Rizvi (Pakistan), and Mohammed Syed (Moderator) listening to Christopher Avery’s remarks and following his presentation.
Picture 3: Panelist Caroline Sage (World Bank)
Past panels:
Fall 2008
Spring 2008
Spring 2007


