How to Become a Solicitor

November 7, 2023

How to Become a Solicitor

Aspiring legal professionals contemplating the path to becoming a solicitor in the UK are witnessing a transformation. The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has unveiled a timeline for transitioning from the Legal Practice Course (LPC) to the Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE). As the LPC is slated for phase-out by 2026, those who hadn’t embarked on a law degree or the LPC before September 2021 will find the SQE as the mandated route to qualification. In this article, we’ll delve into the distinctions between the LPC and the SQE, guiding you through the evolving landscape of solicitor qualification.

The Legacy of the Legal Practice Course (LPC):

For decades, the LPC has been the cornerstone of solicitor training in the UK. It has functioned as a postgraduate diploma, designed to prepare law graduates for the practical aspects of legal practice. With a focus on honing procedural law skills and offering elective subjects, the LPC has furnished a structured and comprehensive education, culminating in a training contract before qualification.

The Emergence of the Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE):

In contrast, the SQE has been introduced as a more standardised and flexible assessment system. It comprises two stages: SQE1, which evaluates candidates’ legal knowledge through a series of tests, and SQE2, which appraises practical legal skills. A pivotal component of the SQE route is the requirement to complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), which can be fulfilled in various legal settings.

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Transition Period: LPC’s Sunset Clause:

According to the SRA, although the LPC will remain available until 2026, its accessibility now hinges on commencing a law degree or the LPC before September 2021. This sunset clause ensures a transition period, allowing current students to conclude their journey along the familiar path. It’s a vital consideration for those within the LPC system, offering a clear timeline and assurance regarding the validity of their chosen route to qualification.

LPC vs. SQE: Key Differences:

Accessibility: The SQE broadens access to the legal profession by permitting candidates from any academic discipline to sit the exams, provided they hold a degree or equivalent qualification or possess substantial legal experience.
Flexibility: The SQE provides greater flexibility, not only in the route to qualification but also in the recognition of various types of legal work experience beyond training contracts.
Assessment Approach: Unlike the LPC’s course-based assessment, the SQE relies solely on exams, assessing applied legal knowledge (SQE1) and practical skills (SQE2).
Preparatory Training: While the LPC is a comprehensive educational program, the SQE necessitates candidates to independently select their preparation method, be it self-study, online courses, or university-led programs.

The Future for Aspiring Solicitors:

For newcomers to the field, the SQE represents the future. It promises to streamline the path to becoming a solicitor by establishing a single, standardised route that places a strong emphasis on practical experience and assessment. The SQE not only aims to uphold high standards in the legal profession but also reflects the diversity and adaptability of the modern legal services landscape.