How hard is it to get a training contract after doing the LLB?

Aug 03, 2020

Written By Raphael Jucobin

Training contracts are the final stage of your legal training, and are completed over two years under supervision at a firm. Securing one might seem like a tough ask in a competitive and crowded field, even if there are several ways you can stand out.

By being enrolled on an LLB course, you’ll have an advantage over others by being eligible to receive training contract offers from the second year of your degree onwards. This means you’ll have a head start on those who complete a conversion course beforehand.

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How can I increase my chances of getting a training contract?

The best way to get a foot in the door and increase your chances of joining a law firm is by applying to vacation schemes starting from the summer of your second year. These are week-long placements at individual firms which will see you gain first-hand experience and the opportunity to make contacts and learn about different practice areas.

What’s more, many firms award training contracts primarily to their vacation scheme intake, so you’ll be more likely to join the firm having done one. The best way to join a scheme is to apply for a handful of placements in firms that operate in your legal area of interest, so that you can authentically convey your enthusiasm for what they do when it comes to the interview.

If you’re still in your first year of your LLB course, you can also sign up for insight days in order to get a head start and impress firms.

Can I start my training contract after the LLB?

Once you’ve completed the LLB, you’ll have one more step to complete before fully completing your legal training. Currently, this would involve completing the LPC - Legal Practice Course - an essential step towards qualifying as a solicitor, which can either be completed full-time over a year or part-time for two. It is taken by LLB graduates as well as those having studied another undergraduate degree who wish to enter the legal profession. From September 2021, however, this will be progressively replaced by a catch-all exam known as the SQE - Solicitors Qualification Examination

In many cases, a training contract offer will involve some accommodation for the trainee to be completed after the relevant course, as you’ll be eligible to apply for training contracts with a qualifying law degree.

Where can I find information about the LLB?

If you’d like to find out more about the LLB and check out the latest places on courses, head on over to the dedicated section of our website!

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