So, you’re thinking about how to become a lawyer in the UK? That’s amazing! Whether you’ve been dreaming about it since you watched your first courtroom drama or you’ve just started exploring law as a career, you’re in the right place.

Becoming a lawyer might sound a bit intimidating at first (hello, years of study and scary-sounding exams), but don’t worry—we’re breaking it down step by step. From picking the right course to finally stepping into a courtroom, here’s exactly what you need to know to make your legal dreams a reality. Let’s dive in!

What is a lawyer?

Any qualified professional who is able to offer legal advice is referred to as a lawyer. Lawyers assist people in understanding the law. They can provide outside advice or work in court. There are two main types of lawyers in the UK.

1. Solicitors
2. Barristers

Step 1: Perform well academically

School is the initial stage in becoming a lawyer. You need to have good GCSE scores. Most legal professions demand at least five grade 4/C GCSEs. Later on, you’ll need these abilities in law. Do your best to study carefully.

Step 2: Select the right A-levels

You have to choose your A-Level courses. At this point, studying law is not necessary. However, courses like English or history can be helpful. Students with high reading and writing abilities are preferred by many law schools. This is yet another initial step towards how to become a lawyer.

Step 3: Getting a degree

Now it’s time to go to university because a degree is a must to become a lawyer in the UK. You have the option to pursue an LLB in law. It takes roughly three years. Doing well here is very important in how to become a lawyer.

Step 4: Complete a course on law conversion, if necessary.

What if you pursued a different course of study at university? You can still work in law, so don’t worry. All you have to do is enroll in a GDL or PGDL course. This is a one-year course in legal conversion. It teaches you what a legal degree did not teach you. This path is still a valid way in how to become a lawyer.

If you need more details on the law courses and the path you can take, Enrollmate is here for you!

Step 5: Pick a legal path

This is important to become a lawyer. You have to select between a solicitor and a barrister. 

• Solicitors advise and prepare cases. They often work with clients and paperwork.
• Barristers speak in court and argue cases. They often wear wigs and robes in court.

Each role has a different path, You have to decide which suits you better.

Step 6: Become a Solicitor (SQE Route)

This is the path if you choose to be a solicitor. You must pass SQE1 and SQE2. These test your legal knowledge and skills. You must work for two years as well. This is called Qualifying Work Experience (QWE). You can work for a charity, business, or law firm.

In England and Wales, this is the new path to becoming a lawyer. The outdated LPC system was replaced by it.

Step 7: Complete a bar course and pupillage to become a barrister

If you want to become a barrister, the path is different. You must first become a member of an Inn of Court. There are four:

• Gray’s Inn
• Lincoln’s Inn
• Middle Temple
• Inner Temple

After that, you have to enroll in a Bar Course. It was previously referred to as the BPTC. It teaches you how to debate and talk in court.

You then have to complete a pupillage. Chambers is a form of law office where this year-long training program is offered.

Step 8: Gain Experience in Legal Work

Experience in the workplace is important. You meet individuals in the sector and get practical skills. Seek out part-time jobs, internships, or shadowing attorneys. Numerous law firms provide vacation packages. These are similar to temporary positions during the holidays. This is a smart step in how to become a lawyer.

Step 9: Apply for legal jobs

You can apply for jobs after completing your training and passing your tests. Lawyers apply to private businesses or law firms. Barristers apply for government jobs or chambers.

The legal profession can be highly competitive. Thus, apply as soon as possible and get ready for interviews. Getting your first job is a big step in how to become a lawyer.

Step 10: Continue to learn and stay current

The law is continually evolving. Lawyers need to stay current because new regulations are always being created. Every year, a lot of lawyers enroll in short courses. They also read books and legal news. If you want to know how to become a lawyer, you also need to know how to stay a good one.

Alternatives for becoming a lawyer

Not everybody follows the same route. Becoming a lawyer can also be accomplished in various ways. You can pursue an apprenticeship in law. This is a paid method of learning on the job. A degree from a university is not required for this. This is great for people who want hands-on learning.

Soft skills you need to be a good lawyer

To become a lawyer:

• You need to be calm, clear, and careful.
• You must be good at talking and listening.
• You need to care about helping people.

These soft skills matter in how to become a lawyer.

How long will it take to become a lawyer?

Let’s break it down the time:

• GCSEs: 2 years
• A-Levels: 2 years
• University Degree (LLB): 3 years
• Law Conversion Course (if needed): 1 year
• Bar Course or SQE: 1 year
• Pupillage or QWE: 1–2 years

So, in total, how to become a lawyer can take 6–8 years. It depends on your path and if you do any extra work.

How expensive is it to become a lawyer?

Studying law can cost a lot. The annual cost of attending university in the UK is approximately £9,250. Law conversion and Bar courses also have fees. You may need help through student loans or scholarships. Money is part of the plan for how to become a lawyer.

How much do lawyers get paid?

In the UK, lawyers can make a nice living. The type of lawyer you are will determine your pay. It also depends on your workplace. Early in their careers, solicitors at large London companies can make over £70,000. Barristers may start out making less money, but eventually make more. If you want to know how to become a lawyer, it helps to also know what rewards may come.

Challenges in becoming a lawyer

It’s not easy to become a lawyer. The work is challenging, and there are a lot of assessments. You must remain attentive and study a lot. More difficulties are faced by certain people than by others. But you can succeed if you put in the work and get help. To become a lawyer, you must believe in yourself.

Is becoming a lawyer your dream job?

Ask yourself:

• Do you enjoy reading and writing?
• Do you like solving problems?
• Are you patient and careful?
• Can you work hard for many years?

If you said yes, then the law might be right for you. The first step in how to become a lawyer is knowing yourself.