Legal Executives

• around 8000 qualified legal executives in UK
• role is very similar to junior solicitor, don't have same level of qualification and are generally paid less than solicitors.
• solicitors qualify through CILEX diplomas - Levels 1-6 (degree level equivalent)
• they work in solicitor firms carrying out tasks similar to solicitors, tend to deal with the more straightforward matters.
• legal executives are 'fee earners' = can charge an hourly rate but they are paid a salary
• a legal executive usually specializes in one specific area of law.
• Legal executives day to day role:

  • handling various legal aspects of property transfer.
  • assisting in the formation of a company
  • drafting wills
  • advising people with matrimonial problems
  • advising clients accused of less serious or petty crimes
• are opportunities for Legal Executives to gain some limited Advocacy rights
• Legal Services Act 2007 (LE):

  • allowed Legal executives to have some limited Advocacy Rights
  • can appear to make applications where the case is not defended in family matters and in civil cases in the County Count.
  • are 3 different practicing certificates: Civil Proceedings Certificate, Criminal Proceedings Certificate, Family Proceedings Certificate.
  • allow legal executives to do such matters as make an application for bail or deal with cases in the Youth Court or the Family Court of the Magistrate's Court.
• regulation= way that we check that legal executives are doing the work that they are meant to, and to a good standard.
• as there are requirements to formally qualify as a legal executive, this means if the professional standards are not upheld, this qualification can be taken away from them.