How do I get a law graduate job?

What you’ll need to do to get a law graduate job depends on the type of lawyer you want to be. If you want to be a solicitor: a three-year law undergraduate degree or conversion course, followed by taking the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), two years’ work experience, and a final character and suitability assessment by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Then, you’ll be qualified to work and can apply for roles. If you want to be a barrister: complete a law degree or conversion course, followed by the Bar Professional Training Course (one year), and a year of practical training, called a pupillage. In the final stage, you can apply for a permanent position known as a tenancy in a set of chambers – you can be self-employed or employed.

How competitive are law graduate jobs?

Law graduate jobs are competitive, but don’t let that put you off applying. There are things you can do you to boost your chances of securing a role, like vacation schemes and other types of work experience. If you want to boost your skills further and make your applications stand out, try our free online learning tools – Pathways and GradSims . Apply early, and set up personalised job alerts so you never miss out on a chance to apply to your ideal roles. Head to our events to connect with top employers, boost your skills and knowledge, and get top advice. Read our career advice – explore career paths, learn what makes a great application and interview, and more.

What are interviews like for law graduate jobs?

The interview process for law graduate jobs depends on the type of lawyer you want to be but usually, there may be multiple rounds of interviews where you'll be asked role-specific and skills-based questions. You should always make sure you’re well prepared by practising common law interview questions using the STAR method and brushing up on your legal knowledge ahead of the interview. For more interview practice tips, have a look at our interviews and assessment centres advice hub .

When do law graduate jobs get posted?

Law graduate jobs typically open for applications between September and November. Always check pupillage and law firm deadlines to make sure you don’t miss out. Our ‘ when to apply for graduate roles ’ guide breaks this all down.

What are the best degrees for getting a law graduate job?

A degree in law is essential if you want to become a solicitor. However, you can do another degree first, and then do a conversion course, known as a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). If you want to work as a lawyer in a particular sector – for example, finance, a finance-related degree before doing a conversion could come in handy.