Solicitor training FAQs

How do I find work experience?

How do I evidence an interest in Law?

  • There are a number of law related student societies listed on UMSU – click on student societies and put ‘Law’ in the search.
  • Attend law events, the Law Fair and open days run by training providers and law firms.
  • Visit courts, when this is allowed. There’s an article on the benefits of doing this on The Guardian website.

How do I decide on an area of law that interests me?

I am particularly interested in applying to a law firm because of the pro bono work they do, is that okay?

  • Pro bono work is undertaken by a law firm as a way of ‘giving back’ and does not form part of its core work, which is what applicants need to be committed to delivering. So, while it’s good to show an interest in pro bono work, don’t give the impression this is the main reason for applying.

Can I simply do a preparation course for SQE 1 and SQE 2 as this seems the cheapest option?

  • There are many different types of courses offered by training providers and we would recommend contacting them directly to check which course(s) are most suitable for the stage you are at.

What happens if I successfully complete SQE 1 and 2 but haven’t secured a training contract?

  • Under the current system, many people complete their LPC without having secured a training contract.
  • Under this new system, they can continue to look for a training contract while doing paralegal work that could count towards their QWE. The paralegal work may lead to a training contract or, if they achieve two years’ QWE, they might be able to work as a Solicitor with the firm they are working for or apply to another.
  • It seems likely that smaller law firms are more likely to accept QWE while larger law firms may want someone to have completed their training contract as this aligns to their practice areas.

If I do the LPC will I be exempt from all or part of SQE part one and part two?

  • Information on the SRA site states that ‘The LPC does not give you an agreed exemption from any SQE assessment. This is because the SQE covers similar subject areas to the LPC but is assessed at a higher standard. If you choose to qualify through the SQE, you could use your LPC as evidence if applying for any exemptions’.

Do all law firms recruit two years in advance for their training contracts?

  • Many do but not all, as some may recruit closer to the start date.

I’m the first in my family to go to university and I don’t know anyone who works in the profession, is there any support available?

I’m an international student with a law degree from my home country, what should I do if I want to practice in the UK?