Lawyers play an important role in the legal system of the United Kingdom. They advise and represent individuals, businesses and organizations on a variety of legal matters.
They can also assist clients with navigating the legal system, drafting legal documents, and negotiating settlements.
In this post, you will learn how to become a Lawyer in the UK. To become a Lawyer in the United Kingdom, you must complete the following 4 steps:
How to become a Lawyer in the UK
Step 1: Obtain a Degree in Law or a Related Field
- To become a lawyer in the United Kingdom, you must first obtain a degree in law or a related field.
- An undergraduate degree usually takes three years, while a bachelor’s degree takes two years.
- It is worth noting that some universities offer a four-year undergraduate degree known as a qualifying law degree, which covers both the academic study of law and the vocational elements required for legal practice.
Step 2: Obtain Either the LPC or the BPTC
- After earning a bachelor’s degree in law or a related field, you must pass either the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), depending on whether you want to become a solicitor or a barrister.
- Both courses are intended to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge required to practise law.
The LPC is a Postgraduate Course that Typically lasts One Year. It covers topics like advocacy, legal document drafting, and professional conduct. If you want to be a solicitor, you must take this course. Upon completion of your LPC, you will need to secure a training contract with a law firm in order to complete your training.
The BPTC is also a Postgraduate Course that Typically lasts one year. It covers topics like advocacy, legal document drafting, and professional conduct. This course is required for those wishing to practise as barristers. After finishing the BPTC, you will need to find a pupillage with a chamber to complete your training.
Step 3: Complete a Period of Supervised Training
- Upon completion of the LPC or BPTC, you will be required to complete a period of supervised training or apprenticeship.
- This is known as a training contract for solicitors and pupillage for barristers.
- This period, which can last up to two years, will allow you to work under the supervision of experienced lawyers and gain hands-on experience in your chosen area of law.
- Law firms typically offer two-year training contracts in which trainees rotate through different departments of the firm.
- Pupillage is the final stage of barrister training and is an apprenticeship under the supervision of a more senior barrister.
Step 4: Continuing Education
- Once you have completed your supervised training or apprenticeship, you should continue your legal education by participating in regular training and professional development activities throughout your career.
- This is a requirement in order to keep your practising certificate.