There are two areas within the world of accountancy which might be of interest to a solicitor looking for an alternative career. The first is the related aspects of the accountancy profession itself, and the second is a new global trend which has seen large accountancy firms launching their own law firms.

As far as the first of these areas is concerned it is clear that there are other jobs which operate along similar lines and utilise the same skills as in positions in law firms. Accountants analyse complex pieces of information and apply logical arguments to reach their conclusions. Indeed, there are very few differences between the jobs of a tax accountant and a tax lawyer. Accountancy firms directly recruit law students and lawyers particularly to specialise in tax work.

As far as the second area is concerned, the current trend in the market for major accountancy firms to begin building their own legal practice is not just limited to tax law, but to the entire spectrum of legal business. Giant accountants such as Arthur Andersen and PricewaterhouseCoopers already have substantial law firms in the UK and Europe, and most of the large accountancy firms are associated with law firms in at least one European country. Indeed there has been pressure for some time for multidisciplinary partnerships (MDPs) to be permitted. These organisations would consist of individuals qualified in various different professional services running a single business as partners. A move into accountancy offers the opportunity to branch out into other careers such as jobs in industry, management and consultancy.

For further details of careers in accountancy contact the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), Chartered Accountants Hall, Moorgate Place, London EC2P 2BJ. Or try the Chartered Institute of Taxation, 12 Upper Belgrave Street, London SW1X 8BB.