Preparing for the SQE

[Abbie Whitlock]

I am in a similar position to everyone above but it is over 12 years since I studied law. One advantage I have is that the SQE seems to be extremely similar to the NY Bar exams which I passed (all 12 years ago and no, Ive not been practising law since!). I find it hard to believe these providers are not covering over half of the subjects on the exam.

What I'd like to confirm is, do all providers provide textbook notes for the black letter law (and just dont teach it) or do we have to self-source/do a different prep course?

I passed the NY Bar with Barbri and found them great at the time. Aside from that, it seems tricky to choose, but cost and black letter prep will feature as my main criteria!

TY in advance

Hey!

I totally get what you mean, as I was always puzzled at the concept of providers not teaching the black letter law, especially considering it makes up half the exam. I can't even find my Contract Law notes from first-year undergrad, and I completed that 4 years ago - I can't imagine 12 years!

Just to offer my experience with my course provider (as someone sitting SQE1 this month), I am with the College of Legal Practice and they provide material for all of the black letter law and have separate seminars for these topics. Whilst I didn't necessarily get to choose my provider (as it is the one my firm uses), I was really grateful that they went back over this stuff as it can be difficult to recall after so much time!

Whilst I can't comment on other providers such as ULaw or BPP (and I'm sure others may be able to offer some insights), there are definitely providers out there (like COLP) that do go over the black letter law if that is something that is important to you.

Best of luck with your decision, and with the SQE prep!