How to Be a Solicitor

Solicitors represent the legal interests of their clients, working to protect rights and solve problems through expert legal advice and services. Many solicitors find their work intellectually stimulating, rewarding, and diverse. If you’re thinking about starting a legal career, here’s a guide on how to qualify and what to expect.

Understand What Being a Solicitor Involves

Legal dramas can paint an unrealistic picture of fast-paced, glamorous lives. In reality, solicitors often spend long hours researching, drafting, and advising. The role requires precision, patience, and the ability to work independently within a regulated and often complex system.

If you’re considering a legal career, try to arrange work experience or a legal internship to get a genuine feel for the profession. This hands-on exposure is often invaluable.

What You’ll Need

Becoming a solicitor is a competitive and demanding process. You’ll need:

• Academic ability and a strong interest in the law
• Commitment, discipline, and resilience
• The ability to manage long-term goals and financial investment

Depending on your educational background, there are different routes into the profession:

The SQE Route

Since 2021, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has replaced the old Legal Practice Course (LPC) route for most new entrants in England and Wales. The SQE is the standard way to qualify as a solicitor.

The Four Steps of the SQE Route:-

1. Hold a Degree or Equivalent
   This can be a degree in any subject or an equivalent qualification or experience, such as a Level 6+ apprenticeship.
2. Pass SQE1 and SQE2
   • SQE1: Assesses legal knowledge through multiple-choice exams
   • SQE2: Assesses practical legal skills such as advocacy, writing, and legal research
3. Complete Two Years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
   • Can be full-time or part-time
   • May be paid or unpaid
   • Can be gained at up to four different organisations
   • Must be signed off by a solicitor or Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP)
4. Meet the SRA’s Character and Suitability Requirements
   You’ll need to show you’re a fit and proper person to become a solicitor.

The LPC Route (Transitional Route)

You can still qualify under the older Legal Practice Course (LPC) route if you:

• Accepted a place on a qualifying law degree, GDL, or LPC before 1 September 2021, and
• Complete the qualification process by 31 December 2032

LPC Structure:-

• A one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) vocational course
• Covers skills such as drafting, interviewing, and legal writing
• Includes optional specialisms like family law or commercial law

Training Contract:-

• A two-year period of supervised legal work
• Must be completed with an SRA-authorised organisation
• You’ll be formally assessed and typically receive a salary

Professional Skills Course (PSC):-

• The final component of the LPC route
• Focuses on professional standards, client care, and business skills
• Takes around 12 days to complete

Other Routes: Apprenticeships and CILEx

Solicitor Apprenticeships:-

• Last around 6 years
• Combine work and study, leading to a degree and SQE qualification
• Fully funded by employers and the government

Chartered Legal Executive (CILEx) Route:-

• Often used by those already working in legal services
• Can lead to solicitor qualification through the SQE after completing CILEx Level 6

Funding Your Training

Training can be expensive, but there are options:

• Student loans (for undergraduate study)
• Law firm sponsorships or scholarships
• Employer-funded apprenticeships

Some candidates also work part-time or gain legal experience while preparing for exams.

Closing Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all route to becoming a solicitor in 2025. Whether you’re starting from school, university, or a different career, the SQE has opened up more flexible paths. The key is to research your options, understand the commitment, and start planning early.

For full, up-to-date guidance, visit the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or speak to a legal education provider.