Requirements to become a lawyer (England & Wales)

England & Wales

In England & Wales the legal profession is divided into two branches : solicitors and barristers
Solicitors provides legal support, services, and advise to clients
Barristers represents clients in court, conduct legal research, and advise clients

Qualifying as a Solicitor

Requires a law degree from a university or students can study another subject other than law and then take a one-year GDL conversion course
Complete the Vocational Legal Practice Course
Undertake a training contract with a law firm and pass a Professional Skills Course
Then apply for admission to be solicitors
Generally, it takes 6 years to qualify as a solicitor (7 years if the undergraduate degree is not in law)

Qualifying as a Barrister

Requires a law degree from a university or students can study another subject area other than law and take a one-year GDL conversion course
Take the Bar Professional Training Course
Complete a pupillage with an experienced barrister for one year
Apply for tenancy as a self-employed barrister in chambers
Generally, it takes 5 years to qualify as a barrister (6 years if the undergraduate degree is not law)

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