1.3 Careers in Law
A Law degree offers many options to students, with a variety of similar fields recognising the degree. However, the four main options that a Law student will consider are becoming a solicitor, a barrister, an academic, or an in-house legal counsel.
Becoming a Solicitor
Becoming a solicitor is one of the most popular career paths for Law graduates and requires the following steps. It should be noted that the following steps here assume that you have an undergraduate degree (not necessarily a Law degree) as that is a requirement for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam.
- Undertake the SQE: The SQE is composed of two stages, the SQE1 and the SQE2. SQE1 is focussed on legal knowledge through multiple-choice assessments, whilst the SQE2 evaluates practical skills such as client interviewing, advocacy, and legal drafting. A good understanding of the law, how the law works in practice, and legal principles is required and anyone considering the SQE should evaluate whether or not they have the right knowledge and confidence to take the exam.
- Gain Qualifying Work Experience (QWE): An essential part of qualifying as a solicitor requires you undertaking a minimum of two years of QWE. QWE is very flexible and can be gained in up to four different organisations across the two year period, including law firms, legal clinics, or in-house departments. Although QWE has now been designed to afford flexibility, the traditional route of pursuing a training contract is still common and a great way of getting direct experience.
- Apply for Admission to the Roll of Solicitors: At the point at which you have completed the steps above, you can then apply to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for admission to the role of solicitors. This will include the SRA reviewing that you meet character and suitability requirements.
- Admission to the Roll: If you pass each stage above, you will be admitted to the roll of solicitors and will be allowed to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales.
Solicitors are a core aspect of the legal system, providing legal advice on a range of issues outside of the courts or instructing barristers to act in the courts. A solicitor will typically draft documents, negotiate contracts, conduct research on a point of law, and manage a caseload.