Qualification checklist for non-law graduates

In your first degree – third/final year

1. Apply for a place on the Common Professional Examination / Graduate Diploma in Law Course.
2. Arrange funding for the conversion course.
3. Try to organise work experience - this will give you an insight in to the different types of firms and assist you in knowing whether the profession is right for you. This will also demonstrate to recruiters that you are serious about a career in law.
4. Research the type of firm/organisation that interests you and prepare your CV carefully.
5. Attend law fairs/open days. This is your opportunity to meet firms face to face.
6. Apply for a training contract in your final term.

In your CPE / GDL year

Autumn

1. Apply for your place on the Legal Practice Course for the following year.
2. Apply for a training contract if not already secured.

Spring term

1. Enrol as a student member of the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
2. Obtain a certificate of completion for the academic stage of your training.
3. July / August - Arrange funding for the Legal Practice Course.

During the LPC year

1. Apply to firms for a training contract if not already secured.
2. Check for advertisements in the Law Society Gazette.
3. Talk to members of the profession.

Starting your training contract

1. Sign your training contract and ensure that the registration form is sent to the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
2. Attend the Professional Skills Course.

At the end of your training contract

1. If the firm is not keeping you on after completion of the training contract, apply for a post as an assistant solicitor.
2. Apply for admission to the roll of solicitors in England and Wales.