Sometimes the legal world can seem a bit mysterious, so if you’ve wondered exactly what it is a solicitor does, we’ve got it covered.
What Is A Solicitor Anyway?
A solicitor is a qualified legal professional who can provide expert legal advice. They’ll prepare legal documents and support their clients whilst they navigate all kinds of legal problems and situations, whether that’s divorcing a partner, buying a house, writing a will or resolving a business dispute. Solicitors will provide expert advice and guidance, and may work at a London law firm, such as https://www.forsters.co.uk.
Who Do They Work With??
Solicitors work with a huge range of people, from individuals and families to companies, charities and government bodies. They could work in private law firms, in-house legal departments such as at a private company, or for public organisations. Solicitors usually have a specialism – for example, they might specialise in property, employment or family law.
What Does A Solicitor’s Day Look Like?
For solicitors, no two days are the same, but most would include tasks such as meeting with their clients, giving legal advice, drafting contracts or letters, preparing court paperwork and negotiating settlements. Sometimes they might represent their clients in court, although often this is a role that a barrister would fulfil instead, as most of the solicitor’s work happens behind the scenes.
How Does Someone Become A Solicitor?
It used to be that there were limited routes into becoming a solicitor, but nowadays, things are more flexible. Most people qualify through the SQE, Solicitors Qualifying Exam, route, which includes a degree in any subject, passing two SQE assessments, completing two years of work experience and meeting suitability requirements. Other routes include legal apprenticeships as well as post-grad conversion courses.
What Skills Do They Need?
Solicitors are highly skilled, and need a huge range of attributes to succeed in their job. They’ll need to be great researchers and listeners who pay attention to detail. They’ll be passionate about helping and supporting people facing legal disputes, they’ll have excellent time management skills and they’ll show professionalism, empathy and resilience.
