Joining the Law Society

As the professional body for solicitors in England and Wales, we’re here to support you at every stage of your career.  Learn about the benefits of Law Society membership 

How to join

Before you can join the Law Society, you must apply to be registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

This register is known as the roll of solicitors in England and Wales. It entitles you to practise as a solicitor.

Check if you're on the roll

Once you’re admitted to the roll, you’ll automatically become a member of the Law Society.

We’ll send you a welcome pack which will include your member handbook and a letter from the Law Society president confirming your membership.

Admission to the roll of solicitors

To apply for admission, you must have:

Pre-admission screening

Eight weeks before the end of your training, the SRA will contact you to arrange pre-admission screening. This helps to assess your character and suitability to be a solicitor.

It includes checks on:

  • your identity
  • your finance
  • whether you have a criminal record

Read the SRA's information about screening

Apply for admission

Once you have your screening results you can apply for admission on the SRA website.

Apply for admission to the roll

Read the SRA’s information about routes to admission.

You can only apply for your first practising certificate once you have been admitted to the roll.

Admissions ceremony

The admissions ceremony is a unique opportunity to celebrate entering the solicitor profession and to acknowledge friends and family who have supported you on the way.

Ceremonies take place at the Law Society in London. Places are limited so book early.

Resources

Find out what the Law Society does 

Our Junior Solicitors Network offers a range of services for students, trainees and newly qualified lawyers.

Maximise your Law Society membership with My LS