How to Become a Lawyer in the UK (4 Different Ways)

Becoming a lawyer in the UK can seem like a maze—multiple qualifications, regulations, and career paths that might be confusing if you’re just starting out. The good news is, you have options. Whether you’re fresh out of school, changing careers, or balancing work and study, there’s likely a path that fits your situation. Below, we’ll break down four popular routes—from the classic law degree approach to alternative pathways that let you earn while you learn.

1. The Traditional Law Degree Route (LLB)

Overview

The most common path for aspiring solicitors or barristers is to study law at the undergraduate level. A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) is a “qualifying law degree” in England and Wales, meaning it covers the foundational legal subjects you’ll need for professional training.

1. Undergraduate Law Degree (LLB)

   • Typically takes three years (full-time).
   • Must be from a university whose law course is accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or the Bar Standards Board (BSB).

2. Next Steps for Solicitors

   • Historically, law graduates in England and Wales would complete the LPC (Legal Practice Course) followed by a two-year training contract.
   • However, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is now replacing the LPC route. Under the SQE framework, you’ll pass SQE1 (testing legal knowledge) and SQE2 (practical skills) and complete Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) for at least two years.

3. Next Steps for Barristers

   • Complete the Bar Training Course (formerly the Bar Professional Training Course, or BPTC).
   • Then secure a pupillage (one-year apprenticeship) in a set of barristers’ chambers or another authorised training organisation.

Why Choose This Route?

• You immerse yourself in law from day one, gaining a structured, in-depth education.
• Universities often provide networking opportunities, mooting clubs, and pro bono work for practical experience.

Who Might Prefer This Route?

• Students certain they want a legal career early on.
• Those who can commit to full-time study right after secondary education.

2. Non-Law Degree + Law Conversion Course (GDL / PGDL)

Overview

Not everyone decides to study law at 18. If you’ve done (or plan to do) an undergraduate degree in another subject—like history, science, or business—you can still become a solicitor or barrister by converting to law afterwards.

1. Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL)

   • A one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) conversion course covering core legal subjects.
   • After completion, you effectively have a “qualifying law degree” for professional training purposes.

2. Next Steps for Solicitors

   • Move onto the LPC/SQE pathway, just like LLB graduates.
   • Pass SQE1 and SQE2, then complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience.

3. Next Steps for Barristers

   • Undertake the Bar Training Course, followed by a pupillage.

Why Choose This Route?

• You can explore another subject at undergrad level, then pivot to law.
• Particularly appealing if you discover a passion for law mid-degree or post-graduation.

Who Might Prefer This Route?

• Career changers or those wanting a broader academic background.
• Students who found an interest in law after studying a different discipline.

3. Solicitor Apprenticeship

Overview

In recent years, apprenticeships have gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to university education. A Solicitor Apprenticeship is a six-year, employer-led programme where you work in a law firm (or in-house legal department) while studying towards your qualifications—including passing the SQE exams.

1. Structure

   • Usually six years for post-A Level/Highers entrants (or less for those with prior education/experience).
   • You earn a salary while rotating through different legal departments, supervised by qualified solicitors.
   • You study part-time (often via distance learning) and prepare for the SQE.

2. Pros and Cons

   • Pros: Earn while you learn, avoid student debt, gain hands-on experience from day one, direct mentorship from senior solicitors.
   • Cons: It’s a long commitment, and balancing full-time work with study can be demanding. Opportunities may be limited in specific practice areas or geographic regions.

3. After Completion

   • You’ll have completed Qualifying Work Experience and be eligible to apply for admission as a solicitor—subject to passing SQE1 and SQE2.

Why Choose This Route?

• Avoid the cost of university tuition.
• Gain extensive real-world experience and potentially fast-track your career within the same firm.

Who Might Prefer This Route?

• School leavers who want a direct, hands-on path into law without the traditional university setting.
• Mature students looking for a more practical route or those already working in a law firm in a support capacity.

4. Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) Route

Overview

Becoming a Chartered Legal Executive is another way to qualify in law. CILEx professionals can perform many of the same tasks solicitors do (like advising clients, drafting documents, and representing in certain courts), and with the CILEx Professional Qualification (CPQ), you can ultimately become a Chartered Legal Executive, or even cross-qualify as a solicitor.

1. CILEx Qualifications

   • Foundation Stage: Introductory legal knowledge (equivalent to A-Level standard).
   • Advanced Stage: More in-depth legal study (equivalent to undergraduate level).
   • Professional Stage: Final stage of study focusing on higher-level practice and management skills.

2. Work Experience Requirements

   • Minimum of 3 years’ qualifying employment in a legal environment, supervised by a qualified lawyer or CILEx professional.
   • You can work and study at the same time, similar to an apprenticeship model.

3. Transition to Solicitor

   • If you decide later to become a solicitor, you can pursue the SQE pathway. Some of your CILEx training and experience might help meet SQE requirements.

Why Choose This Route?

• Flexible study schedules, part-time or distance learning.
• Lower overall costs than a traditional law degree.
• You can specialize in specific practice areas from early on.

Who Might Prefer This Route?

• Individuals already working in a legal support role looking to progress.
• Those seeking a more flexible and modular approach to legal qualification.

Conclusion: Finding Your Best Path

The UK legal profession has evolved to cater to different learning styles, budgets, and career timelines. The traditional LLB route remains popular for those who know they want law from the start, while a non-law degree plus a GDL appeals to career-changers or those who discover an interest in law later. If you’d rather skip typical university fees, a Solicitor Apprenticeship lets you earn while studying, and the CILEx path offers a more modular approach with opportunities to specialize early.

Whichever route you choose, the key is to research thoroughly. Speak to current students, apprentices, or professionals in the field, and consider the financial commitments, study patterns, and types of law you aim to practice. Being aware of these four options can help you chart a strategy that aligns with your aspirations and life circumstances—ultimately setting you on a fulfilling journey into the UK’s diverse and dynamic legal world.