Trainee Solicitor roles - not allowing anyone who has completed the LPC

[Optimistic1111]

Hi all,

So I am seeing a lot of trainee solicitor roles now that are stating on the job advert that they do not want someone who has completed the LPC.

I will finish the LPC in August 2025, I took an interruption of studies for 1 year as I've been self funding it and was struggling to balance my job and finances for it.

Anyway, my concern is, if this is the case and now firms are no longer wanting those who have completed the LPC - what do I do???

I didn't convert my LPC to the SQE because I would have still had to pay separately for the Barbi exams and did not have the funds for this. Also, the low pass rate and knowing people around me struggling so much to pass SQE1 deterred me further. Am I correct in saying that I also will only need to do the SQE2 as this was my understanding once you have completed the LPC.

But yea, seeing this addition to job adverts now means I cannot apply for these roles and with firms phasing out TCs.. what do I do? Is it either direct TC or Vac scheme?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi @Optimistic1111

It's great that you've completed the LPC and that you're seriously thinking about how to enter the profession given the new requirements. @Jessica Booker would likely have much more to say here, but I wanted to encourage you to keep applying for training contracts and vacation schemes in particular. They still remain the primary way most firms will be recruiting their future trainees.

As for completing the SQE, it's worth noting that The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has outlined some alternatives for those who have already completed the LPC but are considering qualifying under the SQE regime. You can find the SRA’s guidance here, but essentially those who’ve completed the LPC do not need to take SQE1. Instead, they can complete SQE2 along with your qualifying work experience/training contract.

Regarding firms that specify they aren't taking LPC graduates, it seems these firms might be outliers. Based on my experience, many firms still consider LPC graduates who are open to completing SQE2. I’d highly encourage you to apply to those firms. Many of these firms may also be able to fund your SQE2 studies. Again, these are just some initial things to bear in mind and I'm sure Jess would have more to add here. Best of luck with applications!

 

[kavin333]

For your SQE situation, you’re right that completing the LPC should mean you only need to tackle SQE2 if you ever need to switch paths. But honestly, that’s an extra cost and headache that isn’t ideal. I’d say keep your focus on TCs and vacation schemes where the LPC is still accepted