So how do you begin to get where you want to go? The world of law can seem incredibly daunting when you have yet to get your foot in the door, so try not to overwhelm yourself before you even begin. We can help. Education is key, if you can prove you have the knowledge then there’s not much to keep you from fulfilling your goals. Study law is no easy task, but if you’re up for the challenge and dedication then here’s how to kickstart you onto the right path to take.
GCSEs AND A LEVELS
A nice and easy place to start, since for a career in law it’s going to take good grades and serious application from the start. An A-Level is essential, however it does not need to be in Law at this level – however you will find most Universities will favour it.
NON LAW DEGREE
Despite what you may assume, lawyers are not required to have studied law at University! You can still do a non-law degree and then take a GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law).
LAW DEGREE
Also known as an LLB. The qualifying law degree covers seven compulsory subjects: public, criminal, contract, tort, property, equity and trusts, and EU law.
LAW CONVERSION
To make your qualification the equivalent to those of a low graduate, you may follow through with a Law Conversion course which will cover all the key learning points of a Law Degree into the span of a year. Look up Graduate Diploma in Law!
BAR COURSE
If you want to become a Barrister then taking and passing the bar exam is mandatory. There are a range of options offered.
LPC
A one year LPC (Legal Practice Course) is directed at people who wish to take the steps to becoming a solicitor.
PUPILLAGE
Here is where a pupil works as a barrister under the supervision of a pupil supervisor to give them support and guidance during a compulsory year-long period of training,
TRAINING
A training contract is a period of paid employment and training with a law firm or other approved organisation before you can qualify as a solicitor. In most cases this will be around two years long.
LEGAL AND PARALEGAL APPRENTICESHIPS
Receiving paid training while working as your desired profession, rather than going to University you may join a law firm straight from school and gain legal skills and professional conduct through these means instead.
SOLICITOR APPRENTICESHIPS
This one is usually a six-year-long program. The same again where you will be receiving on-the-job training. There are entry requirements for this one which are five A*-C GCSE’s and three A-Levels at B or above, however relevant and equivalent work experience counts. Double-check as it varies from the employer.
SOLICITOR QUALIFYING EXAM
As of 2021 the SQE has replaced the LPC, it’s an exam for undergraduates who wish to qualify as a solicitor.
CHARTERED LEGAL EXEC
A qualified lawyer who is trained to specialise as an expert in a particular area of law. Here you must complete CILEx 3 and CILEx 6 (or CILEx Graduate Fast Track for those who already have a law degree) and three years’ qualifying employment. You can also do a chartered legal executive apprenticeship.
BARRISTER
Offer advice and speak on legal matters and represent their clients in court.
SOLICITOR
First point of contact for those seeking legal advice and representation.
PARALEGAL
Paralegal roles are a good foothold into the profession for students and graduates, providing valuable work experience for a training contract or fulfil the requirements without having to actually do one.
If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?
