This article is written in conjunction with the IE Law Society.
By Lea Hochholdinger
For IE University’s LLB, PPLE, and dual degree graduates with a legal focus, the path to practicing law in the UK offers numerous opportunities for professional growth. With its well-regarded market and dynamic legal system, which is also taught at IE, the UK is a popular destination for legal careers nationally and globally. This article provides an overview of the qualifications, paths, and professional considerations you’ll need to consider as you work toward becoming a lawyer in the UK after graduation.
Why the United Kingdom?
While pursuing a legal career in the UK might seem challenging, it is also an opportunity with great rewards. By navigating the qualification pathways, building your professional network, and immersing yourself in the UK legal environment, you will be poised to take your first step into the world of law. Whether you pursue the courtroom advocacy of a barrister or the client-focused work of a solicitor, a UK legal career offers a wealth of challenges, achievements, and the chance to redefine what it means to practice law on a global stage.
An Overview of the UK Legal Profession: Solicitors vs. Barristers
The UK legal system follows a somewhat different structure, dividing legal professionals into two categories: solicitors and barristers. Each has distinct qualification requirements, career opportunities, and responsibilities.
Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). They typically work in law firms or corporate legal departments outside the courtroom. Their role mainly involves providing legal advice, handling contracts, and representing clients.
Barristers, on the other hand, specialize in court advocacy. When you picture a lawyer in a courtroom, you likely think of a barrister. They represent clients in court, provide legal opinions, and operate independently or in chambers. Barristers are regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and often specialize in areas of law such as criminal defense or commercial litigation.
The Path to Becoming a Solicitor in the UK
Since 2021, the standard pathway to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales is the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). This process provides a flexible route that allows each candidate to gain experience in various legal settings in the UK and abroad.
1. Academic Requirements
For IE University’s LLB graduates, your degree is recognized as meeting the UK’s academic standards to sit for the SQE. If your degree is not purely law-focused—such as with PPLE or a dual degree with law—you may need additional coursework to cover core legal subjects like contract law, criminal law, and constitutional law at the necessary level. The Solicitors Regulation Authority will guide you in determining whether your degree meets these criteria, but it’s essential to contact them in advance to clarify any doubts.
2. SQE Stages – Testing Knowledge and Skills
The SQE comprises two key stages that assess both legal knowledge and practical skills:
- SQE1 tests legal knowledge through two exams with multiple-choice questions on contract, tort, and criminal law.
- SQE2 evaluates practical skills like legal drafting, advocacy, client interviewing, and case analysis. It includes assessments designed to mimic real-life legal scenarios.
SQE1 and SQE2 can be taken in the UK or at select global testing centers, providing flexibility for IE graduates.
3. Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
Alongside the SQE, candidates must complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE). This offers greater flexibility than the traditional training contract. QWE can be completed in various legal roles, such as positions at law firms, legal clinics, or in-house legal departments. This flexibility is especially beneficial for IE graduates, as you could potentially complete part of your QWE in Spain or another jurisdiction before relocating to the UK.
4. Apply for Admission as a Solicitor
After passing SQE1 and SQE2 and completing your QWE, you can apply for admission to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) as a solicitor. You must meet additional requirements, including passing a character and suitability assessment at this stage.
The Path to Becoming a Barrister in the UK
If your passion lies in courtroom advocacy, becoming a barrister may be the right choice. Barristers spend much of their careers inside the courtroom, representing clients in trials and legal proceedings.
1. Academic Requirements
Like solicitors, barristers must meet certain academic requirements. An LLB degree from IE University generally qualifies. Still, non-law graduates (such as those with PPLE degrees) must complete a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to fulfill the academic requirements. The GDL typically takes one year and covers core areas of law.
2. Bar Course
After completing the academic stage, prospective barristers must enroll in a Bar course. This course develops essential advocacy, legal ethics, and court procedure skills. Bar courses also include assessments and practical training, preparing candidates for barrister work demands. Some institutions offer bar courses integrating pupillage placements or mock trials for hands-on experience.
3. Pupillage – A Crucial Apprenticeship
Pupillage is a one-year practical training period that acts as an apprenticeship under an experienced barrister. Divided into two six-month segments, pupillage allows candidates to observe senior barristers and later take on supervised cases themselves. This stage is vital for gaining hands-on experience in court procedures, client handling, and legal argumentation. Securing a pupillage can be competitive, so early preparation and networking within legal circles are key.
4. Call to the Bar and Practicing Certificate
After completing pupillage, you can apply to be “called to the Bar,” officially becoming a barrister. To practice independently, you will need a practicing certificate from the Bar Standards Board, which allows you to represent clients and handle cases in court.
Key Considerations for IE Graduates
Apart from the basic qualifications required to become a solicitor or a barrister, there are additional factors that international students, including EU citizens, should keep in mind:
Visa and Right to Work
While larger law firms in the UK often provide visa sponsorship, it is crucial to explore various visa options well in advance to ensure compliance with UK work regulations. The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common visa for legal professionals, requiring employer sponsorship. Since Brexit, EU citizens also need this visa, and the process may be more time-consuming for some countries, so it’s essential to prepare accordingly.
Professional Development and Language Skills
The UK’s legal market is competitive and client-oriented, focusing on precision, clarity, and professionalism. Developing strong English communication skills is essential, as is familiarizing yourself with UK-specific legal terminology. Additionally, legal professionals in the UK must undertake Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to stay updated on changes in the law and continually improve their skills. This can be viewed as an investment in your long-term professional development.
Networking and Alumni Resources
Networking is crucial for building a successful legal career in the UK, and IE University’s alumni network can be a tremendous resource. Many IE alumni are already working in the UK, and connecting with them can offer valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job leads. IE’s Professional Guide – Becoming a Law Professional is another excellent resource for exploring the steps to qualify in the UK and staying informed about networking opportunities.
Additionally, upcoming online sessions hosted by IE will focus on the UK legal market. They will be ideal for learning about the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities from experts and alumni currently practicing in the UK. Keep an eye out for dates and registration details in your email.
Additional Resources and Useful Links
For further guidance on your journey to practicing law in the UK, the following resources will be helpful:
- Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA): Provides comprehensive guidance on the SQE and QWE requirements (www.sra.org.uk)
- Bar Standards Board (BSB): Information on becoming a barrister, pupillage, and Bar courses (www.barstandardsboard.org.uk)
- LawCareers.Net: A helpful site for aspiring lawyers with job postings, firm directories, and insights into both solicitor and barrister pathways
- IE Guidebook: https://ieconnects.ie.edu/CareersBachelors/guide-law/
Featured image courtesy of EQS Integrity Line
