Commercial solicitor: Entry requirements

Although this career is open to graduates of any discipline, a degree in the following subjects may increase your chances:

law;
law with a language.

Non-law graduates take a conversion course called the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or Common Professional Examination (CPE), which takes one year if studied full-time. This route is as popular as starting with a law degree. Almost all firms appreciate the breadth offered by candidates who have a degree in another subject.

The next step after a law degree or the GDL/CPE is the Legal Practice Course (LPC), which can be completed in one year if taken full-time. Candidates then start a two-year training contract with a law firm. See the Legal Practice Course Central Applications Board for details.

A greater variety of routes through the LPC and training contract has been introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) , including new work-study contracts alternating periods of trainee work and LPC study, but thus far (as of October 2009), no major commercial firms have indicated interest in using this structure. If you are interested in smaller firms, it might be worth checking if they intend to offer this route.

In Scotland or Northern Ireland different training routes apply - contact the Law Society of Scotland and The Law Society of Northern Ireland for details. Solicitors who qualify in England and Wales are automatically allowed to practise in Northern Ireland, but in Scotland must first take the Intra UK Transfer Test.

An excellent academic record is important. A good honours degree at 2:1 or higher, with consistently strong performance throughout, is usually required. In addition, good A-level grades (or equivalent) are often specified.

Entry is not possible with a foundation degree or an HND only, but it is possible to enter solicitor training by first qualifying as a Legal executive (England and Wales).

Postgraduate degrees do not necessarily confer an advantage but, depending on the subject, may indicate to a prospective employer that you have a strong interest in a particular area of law.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

strong interest in and awareness of business issues;
excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
high levels of energy and stamina;
resilience and the capacity for overcoming obstacles;
the ability to assimilate large amounts of information quickly, analyse it and apply it appropriately;
an even temperament and the ability to remain calm under pressure;
self-confidence and the ability to inspire confidence in others.

Pre-entry experience is advantageous. Most legal employers want to see that applicants have had first-hand experience of commercial and/or legal workplaces. Larger firms run vacation schemes which are also used in assessing prospective trainees. For candidates, they are an excellent opportunity to make useful contacts and gain up-to-date information. It is advisable to write speculatively to smaller commercial firms as they do not all advertise opportunities but might respond positively to direct approaches from credible candidates.

Competition for training contracts is fierce, particularly for firms who offer their trainees financial sponsorship for the GDL/CPE and LPC. To increase your chances of success, you should apply for a vacation placement with City firms during the penultimate year of your law degree, or the final year of any other degree. You can also gain relevant experience and improve your chances with involvement in such activities as student law societies, competitions in mooting and other skill areas, pro bono work and business simulations.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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