How to Become a Lawyer in the UK

Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Ranking

Becoming a lawyer in the United Kingdom is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires dedication and hard work. Whether you aspire to be a solicitor or a barrister, there are certain steps you need to take to qualify and excel in the field of law. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of becoming a lawyer in the UK, providing you with valuable information and insights.

Step 1: Preparing for a Career in Law

Before embarking on your journey to become a lawyer, it is essential to lay a strong foundation by completing your A-Levels or an equivalent qualification. A-Levels are the gateway to higher education in the UK and are generally required for admission to law schools. While specific A-Level subjects are not mandatory for studying law, subjects such as Economics, English Literature, Geography, History, Law, Philosophy, Psychology, and Sociology can be beneficial in developing essential skills for legal studies.

Apart from A-Levels, international students can also consider the International Baccalaureate (IB) as an alternative qualification. Different universities have varying entry requirements, so it is crucial to research and understand the specific A-Level or IB score requirements of the universities you are interested in.

Step 2: Applying to Law School and Completing an Undergraduate Degree

Once you have completed your A-Levels or equivalent qualifications, it’s time to apply to law school and pursue an undergraduate degree. There are two common paths you can take:

1. Qualifying Law Degree (Law LLB): If you are certain about becoming a lawyer and want to take the fastest route, you can opt for a qualifying law degree. The Law LLB is a three to four-year undergraduate course that covers essential areas of law, including Criminal Law, Equity and Trusts, Public Law, Land Law, Tort Law, Contract Law, and European Law. This degree is recognized as a qualifying law degree and allows you to proceed to the next stage of training without the need for an additional conversion course.
2. Non-Qualifying Law Degree (Law BA/BSc): If you are interested in exploring other subjects in addition to law or are unsure about pursuing a legal career, you can choose a non-qualifying law degree. This degree offers the opportunity to study law alongside other subjects and provides a broader understanding of the legal sphere. However, to qualify as a lawyer, you will need to complete an additional conversion course after completing your undergraduate degree.

Step 3: Deciding Between Solicitor and Barrister

After completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to decide whether you want to become a solicitor or a barrister. While both roles are part of the legal profession, they have distinct responsibilities and work environments.

3. Solicitor: A solicitor is a legal professional who provides advice to clients and handles legal matters outside of court. They are often the first point of contact for clients seeking legal assistance and offer guidance on various issues, including personal matters, commercial issues, criminal law, property, and employment law. Solicitors typically work within law firms, organizations, or government institutions and have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of law.
4. Barrister: A barrister specializes in representing clients in court and advocating for their case. They are typically engaged by solicitors to provide expert advice and represent clients during legal proceedings. Barristers are known for their expertise in specific areas of law and often work as self-employed practitioners or as part of chambers. They have excellent oral advocacy and public speaking skills and are involved in complex and high-profile cases.

When deciding between solicitor and barrister, consider factors such as your work preferences, personality traits, and core strengths. If you enjoy building long-term relationships with clients and prefer working in a structured environment, a career as a solicitor may be suitable. On the other hand, if you thrive in high-pressure situations, enjoy public speaking, and have strong analytical and argumentation skills, you may be better suited for a career as a barrister.

Step 4: Solicitor Qualification

If you have chosen the path of becoming a solicitor, the next step is to complete the necessary qualifications and gain practical experience. The process of qualifying as a solicitor is undergoing significant changes in 2021 with the introduction of the Solicitor’s Qualifying Examination (SQE), which will replace the current system of the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).

The SQE consists of two stages: SQE1 and SQE2. SQE1 assesses your functioning legal knowledge and covers topics such as administrative law, business law, contract law, criminal law, and tort law. SQE2 tests your practical legal skills, including legal writing, drafting, research, and case analysis. In addition to passing the SQE, aspiring solicitors also need to complete a two-year period of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), which involves gaining practical experience in different legal settings.

During the QWE period, you can work in up to four different organizations, including law firms, legal charities, or government institutions. This experience allows you to develop the necessary skills and competencies required by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and prepares you for the challenges of a legal career.

Step 5: Barrister Qualification

If you have chosen the path of becoming a barrister, the qualification process is slightly different from that of solicitors. To qualify as a barrister, you will need to complete the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) or the upcoming Vocational Component of Bar Training (VCBT).

The BPTC is a demanding one-year course that focuses on developing the necessary skills for advocacy and courtroom representation. It includes practical exercises, advocacy training, and simulated court sessions. The BPTC is being replaced by the VCBT, which offers different options for barrister qualification. The VCBT will provide a more flexible and streamlined path to becoming a barrister.

Following the completion of the BPTC or VCBT, aspiring barristers need to secure a pupillage. Pupillage is a period of training and apprenticeship with a barristers’ chambers or an organization that provides legal services. During this time, you will work under the supervision of experienced barristers and gain hands-on experience in court proceedings and legal research.

Step 6: Continuous Professional Development

Becoming a qualified solicitor or barrister is just the beginning of your legal career. To excel in the field and stay updated with the latest developments, it is essential to engage in continuous professional development (CPD). CPD involves undertaking additional training, attending seminars and conferences, and staying informed about changes in legislation and legal practices.

Professional organizations such as the Law Society and the Bar Council offer a wide range of CPD opportunities for solicitors and barristers. These opportunities help enhance your knowledge and skills, expand your professional network, and ensure you maintain high standards of legal practice throughout your career.

Becoming a lawyer in the United Kingdom requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous learning. Whether you choose to become a solicitor or a barrister, the journey to qualification is rigorous but rewarding. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide and staying informed about changes in the legal profession, you can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling legal career in the UK.