The SQE1 assessments focus on evaluating candidates' functioning legal knowledge, representing the depth and breadth of understanding required of a newly qualified solicitor in England and Wales. This entails the practical application of legal knowledge to demonstrate competence in realistic client-based and ethical scenarios.
Core Legal Principles and Rules
Candidates are expected to apply core legal principles and rules within specific subject areas. These encompass fundamental legal concepts that a competent newly qualified solicitor should be able to apply effectively in practice. The assessments cover a range of legal topics, and candidates are required to demonstrate their proficiency in addressing client-related and ethical issues.
Closed Book Assessments
The FLK assessments are conducted as closed book exams, meaning candidates are not permitted to refer to books or notes during the test. This approach aims to assess candidates' ability to apply legal principles without relying on external references, mirroring the conditions faced by solicitors in real-world scenarios.
Cut-Off Date for Legal Knowledge
The cut-off date for the law tested in the SQE1 assessments is set at four calendar months before the date of the first assessment in an assessment window. Candidates are examined on the law as it stands on that date, and they are not expected to be familiar with subsequent developments. However, changes in the law implemented on the specified cut-off date may be included in the examination.
Testing Level 3 of the Threshold Standard
In the FLK assessments, candidates are evaluated at level 3 of the Threshold Standard. This corresponds to the level of competence expected of a newly qualified solicitor. The assessment aims to ensure that candidates can apply legal principles and rules at a standard consistent with the requirements for entry into the legal profession in England and Wales.
Relationship with Statement of Solicitor Competence (SoSC)
The relationship between the FLK assessments and the Statement of Solicitor Competence (SoSC) is outlined in Annex 3. This connection emphasises the practical application of legal knowledge in alignment with the professional competence expected of solicitors. The assessments are designed to evaluate candidates' ability to meet the standards outlined in the SoSC.
In summary, the FLK assessments in SQE1 emphasise the application of core legal principles at the level of a newly qualified solicitor. The closed book format, cut-off date for legal knowledge, and alignment with the SoSC collectively contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of candidates' readiness for legal practice in England and Wales.
