A Minimum Two Year Commitment

The path of becoming a solicitor in England & Wales is a minimum two year commitment.

The SQE Journey to qualifying demands more than just determination. It requires planning, consistency, and, at the very least, a two-year commitment. Understanding why this timeframe matters will help you set realistic goals and make the most of your preparation.

The SQE is made up of two assessments, SQE1 and SQE2. SQE1 (FLK 1 and FLK 2) tests your functioning legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions. While SQE2 focuses on practical legal skills like interviewing, advocacy, and drafting.

Many candidates find that preparing properly for SQE1 and SQE2 takes around 12 to 18 months. Depending on prior legal knowledge, study schedule, and whether they’re balancing other commitments such as work or family. Many choose to study part-time alongside working as a paralegal or in a legal support role, which can help build experience relevant to the exams.

Alongside passing SQE1 and SQE2, you must also complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE). Unlike the old requirement of a formal training contract, QWE offers flexibility. It is possible to complete your QWE with multiple different employers. To qualify and apply to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for admission, you must complete at least two full years of QWE.

A Minimum Two Year Commitment

In practice, this means that even highly focused candidates who complete SQE1 and SQE2 within a year will still need to ensure they have a combined total of two years of QWE. This work experience is importance to help build the practical skills and professional judgment needed to succeed as a solicitor.

Ultimately, qualifying as a solicitor is not something that can be rushed. It is, at a minimum, a two-year commitment. For many, it takes longer when factoring in study time, balancing other responsibilities, or finding suitable QWE placements. Embracing this timeframe early on can help manage expectations and reduce stress.