The Main Responsibilities of a Solicitor: A Guide on How to Become a Solicitor

Becoming a solicitor is a highly respected and rewarding career path in the legal field. It requires dedication, hard work, and a strong understanding of the law. As an expert in this field, I have seen many aspiring solicitors struggle to understand the main responsibilities of this profession. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive guide on how to become a solicitor and the main responsibilities that come with it.

What is a Solicitor?

Before diving into the main responsibilities of a solicitor, it is important to understand what this profession entails.

A solicitor is a legal professional who provides expert advice and guidance to clients on various legal matters. They are responsible for representing clients in court, drafting legal documents, and negotiating on their behalf. In the United Kingdom, solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and must hold a valid practicing certificate to practice law. They can work in various areas of law such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, and more.

How to Become a Solicitor

The path to becoming a solicitor in the UK is a rigorous one that requires dedication and hard work. Here are the main steps you need to take to become a solicitor:

1.Obtain a Qualifying Law Degree

The first step towards becoming a solicitor is obtaining a qualifying law degree.

This can be either an undergraduate degree or a postgraduate degree in law. The most common route is to study for an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) degree, which takes three years to complete. Alternatively, you can study for a non-law degree and then take the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) course, which is a one-year conversion course that covers the core legal subjects.

2.Pass the Legal Practice Course (LPC)

After completing your law degree, you will need to take the Legal Practice Course (LPC). This is a one-year course that provides practical training in the skills required to become a solicitor. It covers areas such as client care, advocacy, and legal research. The LPC can be taken at various universities and law schools across the UK.

It is important to choose a reputable institution that is approved by the SRA.

3.Complete a Training Contract

Once you have completed the LPC, you will need to secure a training contract with a law firm. This is a two-year period of practical training where you will work as a trainee solicitor under the supervision of an experienced solicitor. During this time, you will gain hands-on experience in different areas of law and develop your skills as a solicitor. You will also be required to complete a Professional Skills Course (PSC) during your training contract.

4.Apply for Admission to the Roll

After completing your training contract, you can apply for admission to the Roll of Solicitors. This is the official list of all solicitors in England and Wales.

Once admitted, you can practice as a qualified solicitor.

The Main Responsibilities of a Solicitor

Now that we have covered the steps to becoming a solicitor, let's take a closer look at the main responsibilities of this profession:

1.Providing Legal Advice

The main responsibility of a solicitor is to provide expert legal advice to clients. This can involve researching and interpreting laws, advising clients on their legal rights and obligations, and helping them make informed decisions. Solicitors must have a thorough understanding of the law and keep up-to-date with any changes or developments in their area of expertise.

2.Drafting Legal Documents

Solicitors are responsible for drafting legal documents such as contracts, wills, and agreements. These documents must be accurate, legally binding, and tailored to the specific needs of the client. Attention to detail is crucial in this aspect of the job as any mistakes or omissions can have serious consequences for the client.

3.Representing Clients in Court

Solicitors have the right to represent clients in court on a wide range of legal matters. This can involve presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making legal arguments on behalf of their clients. Effective communication skills and a strong understanding of the law are essential for solicitors when representing clients in court.

4.Negotiating on Behalf of Clients

Solicitors are often required to negotiate on behalf of their clients to reach a settlement or agreement.

This can involve negotiating with other solicitors, government agencies, or other parties involved in a legal matter. Strong negotiation skills are crucial for solicitors as they must be able to advocate for their clients' best interests while also finding a mutually beneficial solution.

5.Managing Client Relationships

Solicitors are responsible for managing client relationships and ensuring that their clients are satisfied with the services provided. This involves keeping clients informed about the progress of their case, addressing any concerns or questions they may have, and maintaining confidentiality at all times. Building strong relationships with clients is important for solicitors as it can lead to repeat business and positive referrals.

6.Upholding Professional Standards

Solicitors are held to high ethical and professional standards by the SRA. They must act with integrity, maintain client confidentiality, and avoid conflicts of interest. Failure to uphold these standards can result in disciplinary action and even the revocation of a solicitor's practicing certificate.

In Conclusion

Becoming a solicitor is a challenging but rewarding career path. It requires a strong understanding of the law, excellent communication and negotiation skills, and a commitment to upholding professional standards. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set yourself on the path to becoming a successful solicitor and fulfilling your responsibilities to your clients and the legal profession.