FAQ
For graduates and trainees
FAQ for Graduates and Trainees
Getting started
Starting your legal career can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions from law students, graduates and aspiring solicitors.
Getting started
Who is this FAQ page for?
This page is for:
- Law students
- Non-law graduates completing conversion courses
- LPC / SQE students
- Aspiring solicitors
- Aspiring barristers
- Future legal executives (CILEx route)
- Graduates looking for paralegal roles
If you’re trying to secure your first role in law, this section is for you.
What kind of graduate roles are advertised?
On LegalJobs.co.uk, you may find:
- Training Contracts
- Paralegal roles
- Legal Assistant positions
- Trainee Legal Executive roles
- Compliance Assistant roles
- Legal administrative positions
- Entry-level in-house legal roles
Availability depends on what employers are currently recruiting for, so check regularly.
Training contracts & SQE
Do firms advertise Training Contracts here?
Some employers may advertise Training Contracts directly. Others may advertise paralegal roles that can lead to a Training Contract internally.
It’s worth searching regularly and applying early, many firms recruit well in advance.
Can I apply if I’m studying for the SQE?
Yes. Many employers are open to candidates studying for or planning to complete the SQE route. Make sure you clearly state:
- Your current stage of study
- Expected qualification timeline
- Any qualifying work experience (QWE) completed
If you require assistance, our team can guide you through the process.
What if I haven’t secured Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) yet?
Paralegal and legal assistant roles are often a strong starting point. Some employers may allow relevant roles to count toward QWE, depending on supervision arrangements.
Applications and experience
I don’t have much legal experience, can I still apply?
Yes. Many entry-level roles focus on:
- Academic performance
- Work ethic
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Commercial awareness
If you lack formal legal experience, highlight:
- Internships or vacation schemes
- University law clinics
- Mooting or debating
- Customer service roles (demonstrates transferable skills)
- Administrative experience
Employers value potential, not just experience.
Should I apply for paralegal roles before qualifying?
For many graduates, working as a paralegal is a practical way to:
- Gain hands-on legal experience
- Build commercial awareness
- Develop drafting and client skills
- Strengthen future Training Contract applications
It’s a common and respected route into qualification.
How can I make my CV stand out as a graduate?
Focus on:
- Strong academic results
- Legal modules studied
- Research or dissertation topics
- Transferable skills (organisation, communication, teamwork)
- Any leadership or responsibility positions
Keep your CV concise (typically 1–2 pages) and tailored to each role.
Career path questions
What if I studied a non-law degree?
You can still pursue a legal career. Many solicitors come from non-law backgrounds and complete a conversion course before progressing to the SQE route.
Employers often value diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
Is it possible to qualify outside of London?
Absolutely. Legal careers are available across the UK, including regional firms, high street practices, in-house roles, and public sector organisations.
Regional roles can offer excellent experience and strong work-life balance.
Are remote opportunities available for graduates?
Some employers may offer hybrid working arrangements. However, early-career professionals often benefit from in-office experience, mentorship, and supervision.
Confidence and next steps
How competitive are graduate legal roles?
Graduate legal roles can be competitive, particularly Training Contracts. However:
- There are multiple routes to qualification
- Gaining practical experience improves your prospects
- Persistence and targeted applications make a difference
Many successful solicitors did not follow a straight-line path.
What if I’ve had rejections?
Rejections are common in the legal profession, especially at graduate level. Use feedback (where available) to strengthen your applications and continue building relevant experience.
Consistency and resilience are key.
How often should I check for new roles?
Graduate and trainee roles can open and close quickly. It’s a good idea to check the site regularly and apply promptly when suitable opportunities appear.
Final advice for graduates
Starting your legal career takes time, preparation and determination. Focus on:
- Building relevant experience
- Tailoring every application
- Developing commercial awareness
- Networking where possible
- Staying consistent
Your first role doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to be a step forward.