Better Late than Never?

Dear Oracle

I graduated from university last year with a 2:1 law degree. I will be starting the LPC in September but I'm not sure what I need to do regarding a training contract. Would I need to apply now (I think I've left it too late)? Also, can students do their LPC and training at the same time? Should I just apply for a vacation placement in the meantime or am I too late for that too? Please help.

The Oracle replies

Law students have to be very organized. You're joining a profession that recruits two years in advance and favours applicants with a good range of work experience and extra-curricular activities. It is vital that students who are set on a career in law take action early on in their second year of undergraduate study - for example by researching various firms, attending careers centre presentations and applying for vacation placements.

However, all is not lost for those who leave their career plans a little late. The fact that you are studying the LPC demonstrates your commitment to a career as a solicitor, and a 2.1 law degree is a good academic achievement. Now you need to take steps to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Apply for vacation placements and work experience, volunteer for the local advice centre, take part in law-related competitions…anything that proves your dedication. Apply for training contracts that start in two years' time, as well as applying to firms that recruit one year in advance (some do). Keep an eye on the Immediate Vacancies section of the LawCareers.Net website. Enlist the help of the careers service at your LPC institution.

When you reach interview stage with firms, be armed with a good reason for your delay.

Finally, note that it is not customary for students to do their LPC and training at the same time, as you suggest. However, for those who do not wish to take a degree, it is possible to qualify as a solicitor by working at a firm and taking the Institute of Legal Executives' exams to qualify as a member and then fellow of the institute. This can be a stepping stone to qualifying as a solicitor but is a lengthy process.