FAQs

Solicitor or barrister?

Deciding which branch of the profession to choose is the first and most important step

More...

What will I do as a solicitor?

Tasks vary according to your practice area but you'll have real responsibilities right from the start. You'll also find yourself working with a wide variety of clients and legal professionals as well as professionals from other fields.

More...

What are solicitors' main areas of practice?

Solicitors are involved in a huge range of work, from banking deals and government work to defending and prosecuting people accused of crimes and helping people through family break-ups.

More...

Where could I work as a solicitor?

You'll find solicitors' firms all over the country - on your local high street, in large towns and cities and in the City in London. Although many of the skills required by firms are the same clients vary in size and stature.

More...

What's the typical work environment?

You'll be in an office but the atmosphere will vary depending on the kind of firm. Regardless of the size of the firm, however, you will have to be professional at all times.

More...

What kind of work/life balance will I have?

Solicitors are well known for having to do occasional all-nighters and weekend work, but it's still possible to have a life as a solicitor, particularly if you work in a quieter area of practice or outside the City.

More...

What skills do I need to become a solicitor?

In addition to high academic achievement, there are some essential skills and qualities recruiters will be looking for in potential trainees solicitors, including communication skills and commercial awareness.

More...

How much will I earn as a solicitor?

Starting salaries for trainee solicitors vary considerably. Don't let yourself be blinded by the numbers however, as many firms offer wider benefits packages including gym membership, private healthcare and pension schemes.

More...

What are the highs and lows of being a solicitor?

There'll be variety, plenty of challenges and a steep learning curve, but there's no denying that you'll have to work hard. However, being part of a project or transaction can be very rewarding.

More...

What is the route to becoming a solicitor?

There's a set process to follow if you want to become a solicitor. It includes academic and vocational stages and a period of on the job training known as a training contract.

More...

What is the conversion course?

It's possible to become a solicitor with a non-law degree, although you'll need to do a conversion course to bring you up to speed in academic law. This course is the CPE (common professional exam), also known as the GDL (graduate diploma in law).

More...

What is the LPC?

The legal practice course (LPC) is the vocational stage of legal training, providing a grounding in legal practice as well as legal skills. It's studied after a law degree or conversion course, and before starting a training contract.

More...

What is a training contract?

A training contract is your last step on the way to becoming a solicitor. You'll develop practical legal experience in a number of different practice areas by spending time in different departments of a law firm.

More...

What's involved in the recruitment process?

Forward planning is essential - you need to start applying for your training contracts two years before you want to start and there are deadlines to meet along the way.

More...

How do I apply for a training contract?

You can apply for many firms' training contracts online instead of sending a CV and covering letter in the post. Being aware of how these systems work and what recruiters are looking for can help you create the perfect application.

More...

When should I apply for a training contract?

Law and non-law students apply at different stages.

More...

What are recruiters looking for?

You'll need to demonstrate a wide range of skills to impress the recruiters.

More...

What recruitment methods are used?

There may be different kinds of interviews at different stages of the recruitment proceess.

More...

What happens after I apply for a training contract?

It can be helpful to think through your interview experience even if you think it went well.

More...

What if I haven't done a vacation placement?

Don't panic if you haven't got legal work experience.

More...

What is the typical career progression?

You'll have responsibilities right from the start of your training contract, but as you progress you'll take on more clients and projects. Eventually you may have the chance to become a partner and own part of the business.

More...

How competitive is law?

Competition for training contracts can be stiff and recruiters expect excellence from candidates, so you'll need top-notch grades as well as soft skills if you want to secure a graduate job as a solicitor.

More...

Can I get a training contract with a 2.2?

It's possible to become a solicitor with a 2.2 degree but you may need to be more creative in your job search.

More...