Solicitors Training Contract Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
Becoming a solicitor is a long and rigorous process, but it all begins with the solicitors training contract. This two-year period of training serves as an apprenticeship, where aspiring solicitors gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become qualified. However, before you can begin your training contract, you need to meet certain requirements. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about solicitors training contract requirements.
Educational Requirements
To become a solicitor in England and Wales, you need to have a qualifying law degree. This means you need to have completed a law degree, either a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). If you don’t have a law degree, you can still become a solicitor by completing the Common Professional Examination (CPE) or the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
Professional Skills Course (PSC)
During your training contract, you are also required to complete the Professional Skills Course (PSC). This course focuses on developing your practical skills, such as advocacy, interviewing, and drafting, among others. The course is divided into three stages: Stage 1 focuses on core skills, such as advocacy and communication, while Stage 2 covers elective skills, such as drafting and negotiation. Stage 3 is a work-based learning module, where you apply what you’ve learned in the first two stages to real-life scenarios.
SRA Competence Statement
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has developed a competence statement that outlines the skills and knowledge that aspiring solicitors need to have. The statement covers six areas: ethics, professionalism, technical legal practice, working with other people, managing yourself and your work, and business and financial awareness. During your training contract, you are expected to demonstrate these competencies and show that you are capable of becoming a qualified solicitor.
Assessment
Throughout your training contract, you will be assessed on your progress. Your supervisor will provide you with regular feedback and complete a performance review at the end of each seat. At the end of your two-year training contract, you will also need to pass the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). This new exam replaces the current route to qualification, which includes the Professional Skills Course (PSC) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC). The SQE assesses your practical skills and knowledge and consists of two stages: Stage 1 is a series of multiple-choice questions, while Stage 2 is a series of scenario-based tasks.
Conclusion
Becoming a solicitor is a challenging but rewarding process. Meeting the solicitors training contract requirements is just the first step. During your training contract, you will gain the skills and knowledge you need to become a qualified solicitor. Remember to keep the SRA competence statement in mind and work on developing your practical skills through the PSC. Good luck on your journey to becoming a solicitor!
