As careers advisors, we’re privileged to engage with a diverse range of young people, learning about their ideas and aspirations for the future. These conversations are a constant source of inspiration and insight.
Some sectors consistently spark interest, technology, healthcare, and education often top the list. Others are new and emerging, such as green energy, AI, and digital content creation. These challenge our team to stay informed and continually expand our knowledge.
In response, we’re excited to launch a new series sharing insights into a variety of sectors and job roles. Whether you’re exploring your child’s career path or considering a change, we hope this series helps you discover opportunities that align with your goals and passions.
Here is our first spotlight: Pathways into a Legal Career
The law sector is often portrayed as a world of courtrooms and barristers in flowing wigs and gowns, but the legal field is much broader and more dynamic than that. From solicitors and legal executives to paralegals and legal tech consultants, there are diverse roles available, and just as many ways to enter them.
Some of the most common (and lesser-known) routes into law
1. The Traditional University Route
For many, the classic route into law involves a university degree followed by postgraduate training
If you study law at university:
- Undergraduate law degree (LLB) – typically 3 years.
- Then take the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) in England and Wales, or Bar Training Course (BTC) if you want to become a barrister.
- Gain 2 years of qualifying work experience (for solicitors) or a pupillage (for barristers)
If you study a non-law degree:
- Take a law conversion course, such as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or its newer equivalents
- Then proceed to the SQE or BTC
2. Law Apprenticeships (Earn While You Learn)
Perfect for school-leavers who want to dive in early:
- Paralegal Apprenticeship – great starting point, leads to legal assistant roles
- Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship – focuses on a specific legal practice area
- Solicitor Apprenticeship – a 6-year programme combining study and work; leads to qualification as a solicitor without university
These routes are growing in popularity thanks to lower student debt and hands-on experience
3. Career-Changer Routes
If you’re switching careers into law:
- Transferable skills (from finance, education, journalism, etc.) are often welcomed
- Study part-time or online via distance learning providers like the Open University or law schools
- Consider legal apprenticeships tailored for mature learners or SQE preparation courses
4. Alternative Legal Careers
Not all legal careers require qualification as a solicitor or barrister:
- Paralegals: Support lawyers with research, documentation, and casework
- Legal Secretaries: Manage correspondence and admin—great for entry-level roles
- Legal Technologists: Combine IT skills with law to support legal innovation
- Compliance Officers or Contract Analysts: Common in the corporate world
5. International and Specialised Pathways
- Bilingual or multicultural applicants might consider roles in international law, human rights, or EU institutions.
- Specialisations in environmental law, cybersecurity, or intellectual property are growing fast
The legal sector is evolving
With increasing access routes and a growing emphasis on practical skills, getting into law isn’t just about academic prestige, it’s about potential, determination, and the ability to advocate for others. Whether you’re donning a gown in court, drafting contracts behind the scenes, or innovating legal solutions with tech, there’s a path for you.
Useful links for more information
For more information regarding an overview of legal roles
Looking for more advice, resources, and insights tailored for parents? Explore our growing collection of articles designed to help you support your child’s future. From careers guidance to educational opportunities, our ever-expanding library is here to inspire and inform. Click here to discover more!