Solicitors + Barristers

• What is the role of solicitors and barristers?


  Solicitors provide legal advice and representation, while barristers primarily focus on advocacy.
• What qualifications are required to become a solicitor?


  A qualifying law degree or a non-law degree followed by the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is required.
• What subjects are covered in a qualifying law degree for solicitors?

  Subjects include Contract, Tort, Public law, Criminal law, Property, Equity and trusts, and Company law.
• What is the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE)?


  The SQE is a new system replacing the LPC, assessing candidates in two stages: SQE1 and SQE2.
• How is SQE1 assessed?


  SQE1 is assessed through two exams made up of multiple-choice questions.
• What does SQE2 test?


  SQE2 tests practical legal skills through 16 practical exercises over 5 days.
• What is the cost of the SQE?


  The cost for the SQE is £3,980, excluding course preparation.
• What is the typical path for law graduates to qualify as solicitors?


  Law graduates typically study for a three-year law degree, take SQE1, and then SQE2.
• What is the typical path for non-law graduates to qualify as solicitors?


  Non-law graduates study a three-year non-law degree, optionally take an SQE1 preparation course, then take SQE1 and SQE2.
• What is the purpose of the qualifying work experience for solicitors?


  It provides practical experience in various areas of law within a law firm.
• What happens after a solicitor qualifies?


  They are added to the Roll of Solicitors and must complete ongoing educational courses.
• What is the role of solicitors in legal aid work?


  Solicitors can provide legal aid work, which is essential for clients who cannot afford legal representation.
• What is required to become a barrister?


  A qualifying law degree or a non-law degree plus the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is required.
• What is the purpose of the Inn of Court for barristers?


  It is necessary for admission to the Bar and provides support and training.
• How many qualifying sessions must a barrister complete at the Inn of Court?


  A barrister must complete 10 qualifying sessions.
• What does the postgraduate Bar course focus on?


  The Bar course focuses on written skills, casework, legal research, opinion writing, and advocacy.
• What is the structure of pupillage for barristers?


  Pupillage consists of two parts: the first 6 months are non-practising, and the final 6 months involve legal services with permission.
• What is the Cab Rank Rule for barristers?


  It requires self-employed barristers to accept any case within their expertise, provided they are not already committed.
• What can solicitors be sued for?


  Solicitors can be sued for breach of contract and negligence.
• What is the significance of the case Griffith v Dawson 1993?


  It established that solicitors can be sued for breach of contract.
• What is the significance of the case Hall v Simons [2000]?


  It highlights the difficulty in establishing negligence against a barrister.
• What is a King's Counsel (KC)?

  A KC is a very senior barrister or solicitor advocate recognized as an expert in their legal field.
• What is the role of the Legal Services Board?


  The Legal Services Board is the oversight regulator of legal services in England and Wales.
• What is the purpose of the Legal Ombudsman?


  The Legal Ombudsman investigates complaints between consumers and legal service providers.
• What are the main stages to qualify as a solicitor?

  1. Obtain a qualifying law degree or non-law degree + GDL
  2. Pass the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE1 and SQE2)
  3. Complete qualifying work experience
  4. Be added to the Roll of Solicitors
  5. Engage in ongoing education
• What are the main stages to qualify as a barrister?

  1. Obtain a qualifying law degree or non-law degree + GDL
  2. Join an Inn of Court
  3. Complete the Bar course
  4. Complete pupillage
  5. Be called to the Bar
• What are the differences in roles between solicitors and barristers?


  • Solicitors provide legal advice and representation.
  • Barristers primarily focus on advocacy and have rights of audience in all courts.
  • Solicitors can represent clients in lower courts; barristers handle higher courts.
• What are the main challenges facing a graduate wishing to become a solicitor or barrister?


  • High competition for places in training programs.
  • Financial burden of training costs.
  • Lengthy and rigorous qualification process.
• How can a complaint be made about a solicitor or barrister?


  • Complaints can be made for breach of contract or negligence.
  • For solicitors, refer to the Legal Ombudsman.
  • For barristers, the process is more complex due to the nature of their work.
• What are the implications of the Legal Services Act 2007 for solicitors?


  • Solicitors have full rights of audience once admitted to the roll.
  • They can represent clients in all courts.
  • It has led to changes in the way solicitors operate and interact with barristers.
• What is the significance of the Cab Rank Rule for barristers?


  • It ensures that barristers accept cases within their expertise.
  • Promotes fairness in access to legal representation.
  • Helps maintain professional integrity in the legal system.
• What are the financial prospects for King's Counsel (KCs)?


  • Criminal KCs earn between £200,000 to £425,000.
  • Civil KCs can earn up to £2 million.
  • Reflects their seniority and expertise in the legal field.