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It’s Never Too Late to Qualify as a Solicitor

It’s Never Too Late to Qualify as a Solicitor

Not every career path begins immediately after secondary education, A-levels or University. For some people, discovering their true passion, skills, and aspirations does not develop until later in life. Experience in various fields and participation in the workforce can help hone career choices beyond traditional expectations.

Becoming a solicitor is an attractive later-life option that appeals to people with experience in a broad range of careers and the drive for competitive challenges. For those men and women who find themselves drawn into the legal arena later in life, there are options for making the transition from other career paths to the legal profession.

Beginning the Process

Mature applicants comprise a significant and growing contingent seeking solicitor qualifications and positions in the UK. For those making the transition from one career to another, there are programmes that aid in the training and qualification process. “Later-life solicitors” may find their new career rewarding and worth the effort, despite the investment of time and money to qualify for a new profession.

Unlike in some professions, age is not a barrier to the law. Many firms and corporations are discovering value in the maturity and experience that accompanies those solicitors that transition from other careers. The legal profession is one that relies especially on a diverse and dynamic pool of talent, personalities, and experience.

Beginning the journey to solicitor qualification at any age — from 20 to 50 — requires careful research and consideration. The training programmes are demanding and challenging for all applicants. Experts stress that maintaining realistic expectations is the best preparation for any course of study and qualification.

Before making the final decision, it is good to experience the legal system first hand by:

  • attending a session of court or sitting in on a trial
  • visiting law libraries and Law Career Fairs
  • reading cases and professional journals
  • volunteering at a legal organisation and speaking with current solicitors

 Thorough preparation and advice begins the process of learning and provides valuable insight and guidance in making a final decision on a new career path.

Choosing the Best Route

Depending on previous education, experience, and skills, several options exist for mature candidates seeking an opportunity in law. Choosing the right path to solicitor qualification may necessitate a consultation with legal, educational, and advisors who are familiar with the various means of achieving a new career.

 The traditional law degree path is always available to anyone seeking to become a solicitor. However, returning to university for an additional degree or education may not always be necessary. Non-traditional applicants can sometimes rely on a non-qualifying law degree or equivalent means to satisfy portions of requirements for solicitor qualification.

 The Solicitors Regulation Authority maintains the standards for the equivalent means qualification route. Which means that regardless of the type of education certificate held, most applicants will be required to complete similar legal practice courses to prepare for their new careers.

Relying on a Qualified Guide

The choice to become a solicitor at any age is not a decision to be taken lightly or without guidance and careful consideration. While it is a rewarding opportunity, the training, qualification, and early career stages can be demanding and rigorous.

 

With different paths to qualification, choosing the right course to pursue can be a difficult first obstacle to overcome. Rely on the professionals at Symphony Legal who know the legal business to guide you on the first steps to a new career.