What sort of tasks would I be doing?
- Interviewing potential clients
- Advising clients on the law
- Writing documents and contracts
- Acting on behalf of clients in disputes and representing them in court, if necessary
- Keeping up to date with changes in the law.
The tasks would vary depending on the type of firm you were working for.
What qualifications would I need?
To become a solicitor, you’ll need to go to university and complete a law degree (or Graduate Diploma in Law), followed by the Legal Practice Course and undertake a two-year training contract with a law firm or other legal employer.
To study for a degree in law you will normally need a minimum of two A levels and five GCSEs (A*-C). However these qualifications may also be accepted:
- BTEC National Diploma
- the International Baccalaureate
- Access to Higher Education course. Entry to university does vary so have a look at different places for different entry requirements.
Becoming a solicitor is not easy but that’s no reason why you shouldn’t consider it. Have a look for all the help that’s available to you. Remember it may seem like a tough route, but if it’s a job that you really want to do then it’s worth it!
Career Prospects
Salaries vary depending on the employer and location but generally solicitors are some of the top earners.
There are also usually structured career paths in law firms as well as benefits that come with the job such as health insurance and gym membership.
Would it suit me?
As a solicitor you should be:
• Confident
• Able to research and analyse information
• Good at solving problems
• cCpable of working under pressure
• Discreet when working with confidential information.
The role will vary depending on what type of firm you work for so it is important to research each firm you apply to carefully. Play to your strengths and apply to firms in which you are genuinely interested. Previous work experience or subjects you’ve studied could give you an idea of the type of work and working environment that you might enjoy. Have a look at biographies of lawyers on the firms' websites to get a feel for the people working there.
You should also be aware that competition for training contracts is fierce so you need to be completely committed to become a solicitor. The job can also include a heavy work load and long hours. However, being a solicitor can give you a huge amount of job security and satisfaction.
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