How To Become A Solicitor In The UK
The practice of law has been a respected and highly sought-after profession for generations. Currently, law is the third most popular degree that students at British universities strive towards. An impressive 14,000 students apply to law programs each year. If you are considering a career as a solicitor in the UK, it is important to understand what steps are necessary to reach your goals.
Becoming a solicitor takes time and dedication. By understanding how to navigate your way to success, you can decide whether or not this occupation is for you. If you do decide to become a solicitor, you will then be prepared for the ride ahead and will be able to make a smoother, more effective journey.
Undergraduate Education
The initial step you’ll need to take in order to qualify as a solicitor is to obtain an undergraduate law degree. However, it is common for people to change their mind about which career to go for even after they’ve obtained a degree in another subject.
If this is the case for you, don’t panic. If you already have an undergraduate degree that is not in law, you can complete what’s called a law conversion course. While earning an undergraduate law degree has its advantages, it may come as a surprise to many to learn that there are numerous solicitors who have a non-law undergraduate degree. A law conversion course requires an extra year of full-time study. You can also extend the conversion course out over two years if you have limited time.
A law conversion course includes either the Graduate Entry Diploma in Law or the Common Professional Examination, and is a foundational study that will teach you the basics of law. You will then be prepared for the Legal Practice Course, which is the last step to becoming a solicitor.
Tips to Follow During Undergraduate Studies
• Talk with career advisors. Ask them for more information about becoming a solicitor, when career fairs will take place, and about work placement schemes.
• Find related work during time off from school. Work with professionals in law during the school year or during breaks. Consistently strive towards as much “hands-on” experience as possible. This will help set you apart from the crowd.
• Talk with members of the profession so that you can decide what area of law you would like to practice and how best to achieve your goals.
The Legal Practice Course
The Legal Practice Course (LPC), otherwise known as the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice, should be viewed as the beginning of your career as a solicitor. The LPC provides comprehensive vocational training for those training to be solicitors. This is where you will fine-tune your education in law so that you can be an effective practitioner.
Becoming a solicitor takes time and dedication. By understanding how to navigate your way to success, you can decide whether or not this occupation is for you. If you do decide to become a solicitor, you will then be prepared for the ride ahead and will be able to make a smoother, more effective journey.
The phases of your LPC studies will include:
• Core foundational subjects such as client care, accounts, professional conduct, probate, European Union law, human rights, and revenue law.
• Compulsory subjects such as business law and practice, criminal litigation, civil litigation, and property law and practice.
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