Key Words: LLB, LPC, SQE, CILEX, Qualification, Solicitor, Training Contract, Suitability and Requirements
As summer holidays are approaching, you might be coming to the end of your studies and a chapter in your life which means you might be considering the current options you have in entering the legal industry and qualifying as a solicitor. The process can be daunting especially if you do not have any networks in the industry and have little to no experience. As stated by the SRA 5% of all lawyers in the UK are Muslims which shows that we are hugely underrepresented in the industry which is another hurdle you might be considering.
The SRA are a governing body in England and Wales which set out a number of requirements in order to qualify and practice as a Solicitor. There are two pathways which can help you decide on how you wish to qualify.
| ROUTE 1 – TRADITIONAL | ROUTE 2 – SQE | ROUTE 3 – CILEX |
| Qualifying Law Degree (LLB) | A degree in any subject/Level 7 Apprenticeship/Experience | LLB Law Degree *If you complete a degree in any subject, you will then need to complete the GDL |
| Legal Practice Course (LPC) | SQE Assessments Part 1 SQE – Exam in Functioning Legal Knowledge Part 2 SQE – Exam in Practical Legal Skills and Knowledge | Graduate Fast-Track Diploma |
| Recognised Period of training (Training Contract) – 2 Years | Qualifying work experience (2 Years) | 3 Years of legal employment – for atleast 20 hours per week and satisfy 8 competencies and 27 learning outcomes – Chartered Legal Executive at this point |
| SRA Character and Suitability Requirements | SRA Character and Suitability Requirements | Complete the LPC in order to become a qualified solicitor |
Please note: The traditional route is currently being phased out with the SQE route, so some of you who are in your early stages of your educational career may only get the option to complete the SQE route. The transitional arrangements are available to those individuals who have completed, started or accepted there offer to complete an LLB Law degree before the 21st September 2021. The transitional arrangements will be maintained until 31st December 2032.
Other routes that you may wish to consider when entering the legal industry would be the CILEX route which is slightly different route to qualification, but it avoids the dreaded training contract applications and waiting for a firm to train you.
Written by Hasnain Arshad – Volunteer at Muslim Lawyers Hub
Muslim Lawyers Hub ™️ 
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