Solicitor Training: Qualify for the Next Career Step

Training to be a solicitor is both costly and time consuming, but worthwhile for those with the drive and desire to pursue the benefits of a career in law. In the UK, qualifying as a solicitor can be accomplished through a rigorous course of academic and professional examinations and lengthy practical experience. The shortest route to qualification for prospective solicitors is for law graduates, but also students who have completed a non-law programme of study may qualify through various training but that may take up to six years.

A primary goal of solicitor training is to prepare law graduates and others with a solid foundation for practice, and to map a route to qualification. While there are other positions in the legal industry, to advance a career, qualifying as a solicitor is a critical step on a path to greater opportunity, earnings, and recognition. Though qualification is an intensive personal investment, it usually provides countless long-term rewards.

Training for Success

There are several ways to qualify as a solicitor in the UK. The traditional methods to enter the legal profession are dependent on education, experience, and ability to dedicate time to studies. Beyond academic preparation, other opportunities exist for making the transition into law. In each instance, solicitor training plays an important role in preparing both law graduates and non-graduates for qualification.

In the UK, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) is the governing body that establishes rules for qualification and admittance to the bar. Solicitor training typically begins with a Legal Practice Course approved by the SRA. The SRA maintains a list of universities, schools, and other providers who offer Legal Practice Courses that are the basis of vocational training for future qualified solicitors.

An LPC covers a wide-range of legal topics that are fundamental to the practice of law. Upon completion of a course, students are expected to have a functional understanding of many areas of practice, including:

• Practical legal research and writing
• Codes of professional conduct
• Business and property law and practice
• Civil litigation
• Criminal defence

In addition to the LPC, the SRA publishes Student Information Packs that provide additional details about the necessary education and training to be a solicitor.

Law graduates can typically complete the qualification process in about three years. Graduates of other programmes of study will need to spend an additional year training to qualify. The SRA also allows non-graduates to pursue a career in the legal profession. Through a longer six-year course of training, anyone with strong academic ability and a sponsor firm can pursue qualification.

Take the Next Step

The legal industry is a competitive market. Qualifying as a solicitor is demanding, but offers the greatest benefits for a successful career. For both law graduates and other professionals seeking a possible career change, the team at Symphony Legal know the legal industry and the steps necessary to advance. We have the experience and knowledge that helps solicitors find the training they need to qualify for a successful career in law. Discover the next step to qualification by speaking with our trained specialists.