SQE Route for Qualified Lawyers

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has opened new doors for qualified lawyers, both international and certain UK-based professionals, to become solicitors in England and Wales. If you are an overseas lawyer or a UK lawyer in roles such as a Cost Lawyer, Licensed Conveyancer, Patent Attorney, or Trade Mark Attorney, the SQE route provides a streamlined process for admission to the profession. Here is an overview of the steps you need to take before applying for admission, with important details tailored to your circumstances.

Eligibility and Pathways for UK and Republic of Ireland Lawyers
Certain categories of UK lawyers, such as Barristers who have completed pupillage, CILEX Practitioners, Chartered Legal Executives, and solicitors from Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, have specific pathways under the SQE framework. If you fall into one of these categories, it is essential to explore your designated pathway as the requirements differ from those for other qualified lawyers. For all other international lawyers and specific UK-qualified professionals, the general SQE route applies. Before diving into the specifics, you’ll need to create a mySRA account and update your professional profile.

Creating a MySRA Account and Adding Your Jurisdiction
The first step on your journey is to create a mySRA account. Within your profile, you will need to tell the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) that you are a qualified lawyer by adding your jurisdiction under the "My Profile" section. This process involves selecting your professional title and entering the date you qualified. Notably, once you do this, the SRA will recognise that you do not require the two-year qualifying work experience (QWE) that is typically needed for non-qualified candidates.

Validating Your Degree
Your academic qualifications are a crucial part of the admission process. The degree you hold must be at least equivalent to a UK level 6 qualification, though it can be in any subject. If your degree is from outside the UK, or if you have other qualifications and relevant work experience, you can apply for equivalency. The SRA provides guidelines on how they validate degrees and the steps you should take if you need to apply for equivalency.

Passing the SQE and Retrieving Your Results
To be admitted as a solicitor, you will need to pass both SQE1 and SQE2 assessments unless you qualify for exemptions. You can apply for exemptions based on your legal qualifications and individual professional experience. However, it is important to note that each exemption is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

To take the SQE exams, you must first create an account on the SQE assessment website, where you can book your assessments and access your results. Once you have completed and passed all the required assessments, you’ll need to retrieve your results through mySRA. This step is crucial, as it confirms to the SRA that you have either passed or been granted exemptions from all parts of the SQE.

Checking Suitability and Applying for Admission
If you have received an exemption from the SQE2 assessment, you will need to demonstrate your English or Welsh language competence before proceeding with your application for admission. Additionally, you must undergo background screening before applying. However, if you have any concerns regarding suitability, you can request an early assessment from the SRA.

When applying for admission, you will choose the "Solicitors Qualifying Examination route" option within the application process. You will also be required to upload a certificate of good standing from all jurisdictions where you hold legal qualifications. This certificate should be less than three months old and must confirm that you are in good standing, have not been subject to disciplinary proceedings, and are currently entitled to practice.

Applying for a Practising Certificate
After selecting your admission date, the next step is to apply for a practising certificate. This certificate allows you to practice as a solicitor once admitted. The SRA provides clear instructions on how to apply, ensuring that you are fully prepared to begin your career as a solicitor in England and Wales.

The SQE route offers a clear and structured pathway for qualified lawyers from various backgrounds to join the solicitors’ profession in England and Wales. Whether you are an international lawyer or a UK professional from a related legal field, the process involves validating your qualifications, passing the necessary assessments, and meeting the SRA’s suitability requirements.