How to qualify as a solicitor
The rules on how to qualify as a solicitor are set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). To become a solicitor you must study at graduate and postgraduate level. Graduate-level study is known as the academic stage of training, while the postgraduate level is known as the vocational stage of training. In addition to studying you will have to gain work experience by way of an approved training contract, although this may be waived if you have first qualified as a legal executive lawyer.
The 'traditional' route to becoming a solicitor is to achieve the SRA's academic stage of training by way of a law degree. The time and increasing cost commitment of university study make alternative routes to qualification, and in particular the legal executive lawyer route, very attractive. The table below shows the options available to you but these are given as a guide and you should check the current training regulations with the SRA on 0870 606 2555.