The legal profession has undergone a transformation with the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) in September 2021. This new pathway to becoming a solicitor aims to modernise the qualification process for those qualifying in England and Wales.

What is the SQE?

The SQE is an assessment for all prospective solicitors, regardless of their background and degree. It is no longer a requirement that you need to have completed a law degree or postgraduate conversion course in law. The SQE replaces the traditional Legal Practice Course (LPC) and training contract.

Under the new system trainee solicitors must:

• hold a degree or equivalent qualification in any subject;
• pass stages 1 and 2 of the SQE;
• complete two years qualifying work experience (QWE); and
• meet the SRA's character and suitability requirements.

The SQE consists of two parts: SQE1 is a multiple-choice exam focusing on legal knowledge, while SQE2 considers practical legal skills such as advocacy, legal research, and writing.

Alongside the SQE exams, a two-year period of qualifying work experience (QWE) must be completed prior to qualification. This will need to be signed off by a solicitor. This is effectively replacing the old-style training contract, which has been notoriously difficult to secure.

Benefits of the SQE

There are many benefits to the introduction of the SQE:

• Broadening of Talent: The SQE opens the legal profession to a wider range of candidates, bringing fresh perspectives and skills to law firms.
• Standardisation of Qualification: The SQE ensures a consistent standard of qualification across all new solicitors. They will have met the same rigorous standards, enhancing the overall quality of the legal profession.
• Flexibility in Training: Firms can tailor their training programs to suit their specific needs and areas of specialisation, allowing for more targeted and efficient training.

Being a Trainee at Strata Solicitors

We currently have 3 Trainees at Strata Solicitors, the legal division of Gallagher Bassett Charley Heath, Charlie Marklew and David Walton, who are due to qualify in 2025.

Our Trainees have the opportunity to develop their technical legal skills through a mixture of training and hands on experience. Aside from technical expertise they will be able to develop wider skills, for example commercial awareness, client care and the other soft skills required of a Solicitor. Our Trainees take on extra responsibility from an early stage and have the opportunity to support the wider business in projects, research, and training.

All Trainees are appointed a Trainee Supervisor who will support them with getting the most out of their training and providing guidance along the way. They will be required to keep a Training Diary throughout the Programme and will meet with their Trainee supervisor monthly to review and track their progress.

Our Trainees will then qualify into their preferred area of practice within Strata Solicitors.

The SQE provides a more flexible, cost-effective way to enter the profession compared to the Legal Practice Course/Training Contract route, which will undoubtedly offer a refreshing change to the legal industry. With these changes in place, we hope to see a more diversified legal profession with more opportunities for those wishing to pursue a career in law.