Training contract in just one area of law?

[W5690]

Hello,

Is it allowed to undertake a training contract in just one area of law?

Thank you.

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

Hello,

Is it allowed to undertake a training contract in just one area of law?

Thank you.

Yes, this is possible if you do an SQE training contract or QWE. It would not be possible if you did a LPC training contract, otherwise known as a "period of recognised training" as you have to gain experience in three distinct areas of law, including contentious work.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hello,

Is it allowed to undertake a training contract in just one area of law?

Thank you.

Hey there,

Just to follow up from Jess’ response, if this is something you’re interested in…Milbank has a LevFin TC. You could consider applying for it when they open.

 

[W5690]

Yes, this is possible if you do an SQE training contract or QWE. It would not be possible if you did a LPC training contract, otherwise known as a "period of recognised training" as you have to gain experience in three distinct areas of law, including contentious work.

@Jessica Booker Many thanks. What are your thoughts on this possibility? Is not it a bit "risky", unless applicants are absolutely sure about their decision to do this (for instance, having a passion for criminal defence law)? Also, what kind(s) of law firm offer(s) an SQE training contract in just one area of law? Thank you.

 

[W5690]

Hey there,

Just to follow up from Jess’ response, if this is something you’re interested in…Milbank has a LevFin TC. You could consider applying for it when they open.

@Amma Usman Hello, many thanks.

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

@Jessica Booker Many thanks. What are your thoughts on this possibility? Is not it a bit "risky", unless applicants are absolutely sure about their decision to do this (for instance, having a passion for criminal defence law)? Also, what kind(s) of law firm offer(s) an SQE training contract in just one area of law? Thank you.

I think working in one area is good if you know that is the area you definitely want to work in and when you don't want to explore other areas of law to find out what is right for you. I think many candidates applying to TCs don't know what area of law they want to work in, and so trying different areas out to then work out what might be best works for many. But other candidates, especially those with experience as paralegals may be more sure of the area of law they want to qualify into it.

I think such opportunities are opening up given there is no longer the restrictions on seeing three distinct areas of law like there were with the LPC/period of recognised training route. It is likely this will eventually be seen across a number of different types of law firms, not just through training contracts but also through people qualifying via QWE gained from other legal roles. There have been some specialist TCs already, like the one that @Amma Usman has mentioned. Firms like BCLP have specialist Real Estate TCs too. I don't know the full list but its definitely something to consider if you think it would be better suited to your career aspirations and goals.

 

[W5690]

I think working in one area is good if you know that is the area you definitely want to work in and when you don't want to explore other areas of law to find out what is right for you. I think many candidates applying to TCs don't know what area of law they want to work in, and so trying different areas out to then work out what might be best works for many. But other candidates, especially those with experience as paralegals may be more sure of the area of law they want to qualify into it.

I think such opportunities are opening up given there is no longer the restrictions on seeing three distinct areas of law like there were with the LPC/period of recognised training route. It is likely this will eventually be seen across a number of different types of law firms, not just through training contracts but also through people qualifying via QWE gained from other legal roles. There have been some specialist TCs already, like the one that @Amma Usman has mentioned. Firms like BCLP have specialist Real Estate TCs too. I don't know the full list but its definitely something to consider if you think it would be better suited to your career aspirations and goals.

@Jessica Booker As always, many thanks for your highly helpful, instructive, and comprehensive thoughts!