Insights from Lawyers Balancing Parenting and Study Abroad During Global Training Programs

A Roundtable on Study Abroad with Children

On May 20, 2025, TMI General Legal Office, located in Minato-ku, Tokyo, held a unique roundtable discussion aimed at young lawyers and patent attorneys. The event, organized by TMI's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Committee, focused on the delicate balance of parenting while pursuing international study and training opportunities. This roundtable featured several lawyers and patent attorneys who successfully navigated their careers while raising young children abroad.

One of the speakers, Attorney Kono, recalled his experience of moving to London with an infant. "By thoroughly researching vaccinations, insurance, and housing arrangements beforehand, I was able to live comfortably," he shared, highlighting the importance of preparation when taking children overseas. Meanwhile, Attorney Tsuki, who traveled to the U.S. with her three and six-year-old, reflected on the challenges of studying amid family responsibilities but emphasized the amazing growth and perspective changes observed in her children throughout the journey. "Though studying within limited time frames was tough, the experience was invaluable. Living abroad with my kids was truly rewarding," she expressed.

The event also included an engaging Q&A session, where participants posed various questions concerning local daycare options and safety concerns. Speakers provided firsthand knowledge on how to leverage community resources and discussed the intricate relationship between local political climates and safety, ensuring that attendees left with practical information that could ease their apprehensions about overseas education with children.

Comments from Michoko Shintani, Organizer and DE&I Committee Member

"For young lawyers and patent attorneys preparing for overseas studies, the anxiety surrounding family relocation is often a significant concern. At TMI, we have several professionals who have navigated their careers while raising children abroad. Thus, I decided to organize this event to provide participants with real-life insights that you cannot find on our website. The roundtable received great attendance, both in-person and online, and I truly believe the organization was successful. If the discussions here can encourage just a few participants to pursue their dreams, then my goal has been achieved!"

TMI positions DE&I promotion as one of its key strategies, creating an environment where lawyers, patent attorneys, and staff from diverse backgrounds can capitalize on their unique strengths. Moving forward, the firm aims to continue and expand efforts that support the dual goals of career advancement and lifestyle balance.

About TMI General Legal Office

Founded in 1990, TMI General Legal Office is one of Japan's largest legal firms, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, with Tanaka Katsuro at the helm. The firm boasts a team of 674 lawyers and 101 patent attorneys (as of May 1, 2025) and surpasses 1,300 staff members when including support personnel. With a presence in seven domestic locations and 19 international offices (including local desks), TMI offers comprehensive legal services tailored to meet the needs of corporations, organizations, and communities both domestically and abroad. Notably, the firm has continuously embraced new challenges, establishing its own ventures, and signing digitalization agreements with local governments. TMI consistently aims to redefine the roles of legal professionals to proposals innovative solutions for its diverse client base.

For more information, please visit the TMI website: TMI General Legal Office