‘Should I work as a paralegal, or self-fund the SQE?’

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By Legal Cheek on

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Tough choice for soon-to-be law graduate


In our latest Career Conundrum, a law finalist wants your advice on what their next steps should be.

“Hello, I’m currently a final year law student, expecting to graduate in June with (hopefully!) a solid 2:1 from a Russell Group uni. I haven’t been able to secure a training contract yet and I have decided not to submit any more applications this year to focus on my dissertation and exams.

Next year I’m considering either self-funding the SQE or trying to get a job as a paralegal. Self-funding is expensive and I’m worried that if I don’t secure a training contract next year (or ever) that I’ll have chucked thousands of pounds down the drain. However, I know paralegal roles are tough to land so I’m concerned if I take that route I will end up unemployed with a big gap in my CV.

I really need your readers’ advice on what would be the best post-graduation strategy for a keen aspiring solicitor who is determined to get that TC.”

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If you have a career conundrum, email us at tips@legalcheek.com.

2 Comments

Andrew

This is a difficult question to answer in the abstract. A 2:1 would be a good start, but what kind of law do you want to do, and where?

Self-funding is an expensive and high-risk strategy. Can you afford it? What will you do if you don’t secure a legal job at the end of it?

It may not be easy to secure a paralegal position either. If you don’t, perhaps the universe is sending you a message, and it may be time to consider other options. But if you do, you will be paid something, and you will get some relevant experience. Think of it like an extended interview: if you impress, the firm may be willing to sponsor you through the SQE, and you may find a permanent position opening up.

Ultimately it is your decision where the balance of risk and reward lies. Good luck.

Brian, age 10

I honestly do not see why people choose to self-fund the SQE / LPC.

I would always advise people get a TC first and have a firm pay for it.

You’re essentially taking on massive debt as a gamble because there is not guaranteed job at the end of it. Regardless of whether you’ve self funded, you’ll need a TC anyway.

It’s also myth that firms will consider a candidate more favourable if they’ve already obtained the SQE; firms assume any of their TC candidates need to go through the SQE and have budgeted for it accordingly.

Aside from the above, you’ll also struggle to really dedicate time for applications and assessment centres if you’re studying the SQE.

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