At Talbots Law, we believe there is no single “right” path into a legal career.
The legal profession has evolved significantly in recent years, creating more flexible and accessible routes to becoming a Solicitor. Whether you’re a school leaver considering your options, a graduate exploring your next steps, or a career changer looking for a new challenge, there’s a pathway to suit you.
In this guide, we break down the main routes to qualifying as a Solicitor in England and Wales.
The Traditional Route: Law Degree, LPC and Training Contract
For many years, the most common route to qualification followed a clear and structured path:
Qualifying law degree (LLB) - Study an undergraduate law degree, typically over three years.
Legal Practice Course (LPC) - A vocational course focusing on practical legal skills such as client interviewing, drafting and advocacy.
Training contract - A two-year period of paid, structured training within a law firm, rotating through different areas of practice.
While this pathway is still valid, it is gradually being phased out in favour of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route.
The Modern Route: The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)
The SQE is now the central route to qualifying as a Solicitor and introduces greater flexibility.
To qualify via the SQE route, candidates must complete four steps:
1. Hold a Degree or Equivalent
You need a degree in any subject (or equivalent qualification or work experience). This means you don’t have to study law at undergraduate level.
2. Pass SQE1 and SQE2
SQE1 tests functioning legal knowledge through multiple-choice assessments.
SQE2 assesses practical legal skills such as advocacy, interviewing, legal writing and drafting.
3. Complete Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
You must complete two years of legal work experience, which can be gained in a variety of settings, including:
Law firms
In-house legal teams
Law clinics or pro bono work
Importantly, QWE does not need to be completed in one place, making it more flexible than a traditional training contract.
4. Meet Character and Suitability Requirements
As with all legal professionals, candidates must satisfy the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) that they are fit to practise.
Apprenticeships: Learning While You Earn
For those looking to avoid university or combine study with practical experience, Solicitor Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular option.
Solicitor Apprenticeship
Typically lasts 5–6 years
Combines paid work with part-time study
Leads directly to qualification via the SQE
Apprentices gain valuable hands-on experience from day one while earning a salary and avoiding student debt.
Graduate Entry (Non-Law Backgrounds)
If you studied a subject other than law, you can still qualify as a solicitor.
Under the SQE route, a law conversion course (such as the PGDL) is no longer mandatory, but it is often recommended to build a solid legal foundation before taking SQE exams.
This route allows graduates from diverse academic backgrounds to bring different perspectives into the profession, something we value highly at Talbots Law.
Chartered Legal Executive Route (CILEX)
Another alternative pathway is through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX).
Candidates qualify as Chartered Legal Executives through a combination of study and practical experience
With additional steps, they can go on to qualify as a Solicitor
This route is particularly attractive for those who prefer a more gradual, work-based progression into law.
Choosing the Right Route for You
With multiple pathways now available, choosing the right one depends on your personal circumstances, learning style, and career goals.
You might prefer:
A structured route with a training contract
A flexible approach through SQE and varied work experience
A debt-free pathway via an apprenticeship
A career-change option as a non-law graduate
At Talbots Law, we recognise that talent comes through many different routes. What matters most is your commitment, curiosity and passion for delivering excellent client service.
Starting Your Journey with Talbots Law
We are proud to support aspiring legal professionals at every stage of their journey, we offer opportunities to develop your skills in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
If you’re considering a career in law, we encourage you to visit our careers website to explore how you can take first steps with Talbots.
