There are a number of careers available in law, but here we will concentrate on becoming a solicitor.
There are other positions within a law firm such as legal executive or paralegal and both positions will offer the opportunity to become a solicitor in most firms.
If you wish to look at a London law firm, you can search online for firms in the capital, such as www.forsters.co.uk/.
Decide whether a career in law is for you
Lawyers need good communication skills and to be able to meet deadlines. Attention to detail and organisational skills are also essential.
A solicitor’s work is divided into resolving disputes and dealing with legal aspects of an individual’s life. Duties will include researching cases and any litigation which is appropriate. You will also need to be comfortable drafting letters, contracts, wills and other documents.
You will also liaise with clients and other professionals and potentially represent your clients in court or tribunals.
Qualifications
A law degree is a good entrance into the profession, although some firms will look at graduates from other disciplines. To enter a law degree, you will need a minimum of two A levels, although the most popular universities will ask for three with A grades. They will not necessarily request an A level in law.
Qualifying without a law degree
You can also qualify by completing a solicitor apprenticeship, which an increasing number of firms now offer. Or you can begin as a legal executive and get a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives.
How long does it take to qualify?
This depends on how you enter the profession, but here are a few specifics.
. It normally takes six years to qualify if you choose to study a law degree first.
. Apprentices can qualify within three to six years.
. Most will take the Solicitors Qualifying Exam. This was introduced in 2021 and replaces the Legal Practice Course.
Alternatives
Naturally, there are other careers in law such as being a Barrister, a Company Secretary or working in a local authority or in government.
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