With the transition from the Legal Practice Course (LPC) to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), aspiring solicitors are faced with a new dilemma: Is the SQE harder than the LPC? This question is critical as it influences the future careers of many law students. To provide a comprehensive answer, let's examine both pathways in detail.
LPC: The Traditional Route
For decades, the LPC has been the established route for qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. This postgraduate course is designed to arm future solicitors with practical skills and legal knowledge, covering crucial subjects such as contract law, property law, and criminal law.
Requirements and Structure:
Prerequisites: Typically, candidates need a law degree or a Common Professional Examination (CPE).
Training Contract: A two-year period of recognised training within a law firm.
Assessment: The LPC involves a variety of assessment methods, including open-book exams, oral assessments, and essay-based problem-solving questions.
SQE: The New Route
Introduced in September 2021, the SQE offers a fresh and more accessible route to qualification. Developed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), the SQE aims to ensure consistency and accessibility in the legal qualification process.
Requirements and Structure:
Prerequisites: A degree in any subject or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.
Qualifying Work Experience (QWE): Two years of qualifying work experience, which can be gained from up to four different organisations and does not need to be within a traditional law firm.
Assessment: The SQE is divided into two stages:
SQE1: Multiple-choice questions that test the application of legal knowledge to practical scenarios.
SQE2: A combination of oral and written assessments that evaluate the application of fundamental legal principles in skills-based situations.
Comparing Difficulty: LPC vs. SQE
Determining which route is harder depends on various factors, including individual learning styles, career goals, and personal circumstances. Here are key considerations:
1. Time and Cost:
LPC: The LPC typically takes longer and is more expensive, which can be a barrier for those seeking a quicker and more cost-effective qualification. With the LPC being phased out, committing to this route now may not be practical.
SQE: The SQE offers a flexible and less costly alternative, making it more attractive to those balancing work and personal commitments.
2. Preparation and Support:
LPC: The LPC's long-standing presence means it has a well-established support system and a proven track record.
SQE: While newer, the SQE is supported by a growing number of preparation courses that often provide more tailored support than traditional LPC courses.
3. Practical Experience:
LPC: If you already have a training contract, the LPC might be more straightforward, as it directly aligns with this requirement.
SQE: The SQE's flexible QWE requirements can be advantageous for those with diverse legal experience or who wish to gain experience across multiple settings.
So, is the SQE harder than the LPC? The answer isn't straightforward. Both routes present unique challenges and benefits. The LPC offers a more traditional and structured approach, which might be easier for those who prefer clear guidelines and established pathways. On the other hand, the SQE provides flexibility and accessibility, which can be more suitable for individuals seeking a non-traditional path to qualification.
Ultimately, the choice between the LPC and the SQE should be based on personal circumstances, including financial considerations, time availability, and career aspirations. By carefully weighing these factors, aspiring solicitors can make an informed decision that best supports their professional journey.
However, not most candidates know that the SQE is also included within the new Solicitor Apprenticeship and Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship, meaning that candidates can claim funding from the government to train as a solicitor via the Solicitor Qualifying Exam (SQE) route to become fully qualified.
