Thinking of changing careers into law

Dear Oracle

I'm tired of my current office job and after years of putting it off, I want to finally pursue my ambition to become a solicitor. However, I've heard that recruitment at the big firms is geared towards younger candidates and that smaller firms won't be able to afford to take me either – is there any hope that I can achieve my ambition?

The Oracle replies

It is true that broadly, the application and recruitment process at many firms is geared toward candidates who are trying to get into law as a first career (ie, people who come to law soon after doing a law degree or the GDL). However, increasingly firms welcome career changers and value the wider experiences and perspectives that they bring. At an event for career changers run by the Law Society a few months ago, the commercial firms present included Nabarro, Norton Rose Fulbright, Hogan Lovells and DLA Piper, while the Government Legal Service was also in attendance. Attitudes toward mature students and career changers seem to be changing in the legal profession.

However, the competition for training contracts is intense, so pursuing your ambition will take a lot of hard work, compromise and perseverance. You will need to consider how to finance your studies as you complete the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and Legal Practice Course (LPC), as well as how to balance these considerations with any other financial or family commitments you may have – both the GDL and LPC can be studied part-time.

Gaining some legal work experience will also be important. Begin your research into law firms that interest you early and then use this research to help you apply for a vacation scheme placement at a firm. Volunteering for a pro bono organisation such as the Citizens Advice Bureau is also a great way to gain valuable legal work experience.

Remember that your previous experience is an asset and not a hindrance. All your previous employment experiences are evidence of valuable transferable skills, while it is even better if your previous role has some relevance to the firm you’re thinking of applying to (eg, a previous career in finance or business will stand you in good stead if applying to a corporate firm). You may encounter obstacles and be passed over unfairly by some lawyers, but keep at it as there are many employers with more forward-thinking attitudes. Attend law fairs, open days and other events, and network as much as you can – your local Junior Lawyers Division will also be able to help you in this regard. Good luck!