Is the LPC compulsory?

Nov 03, 2022

Written By Panashe Nyadundu

In 2018, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) announced the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) as the new way to become a qualified solicitor. It came into force in 2021 and coexists alongside the LPC. As such, the LPC is no longer compulsory. However, it’s not as simple as that, so we’ve got any questions you might have covered.

What Does the SRA Say?

SRA guidelines detail that the LPC is no longer compulsory. The SQE will come into full effect in 2032, thus SRA guidelines detail that either route (LPC vs SQE) can be taken to qualify up until this time. This essentially means that it is for the individual law firm you are applying to decide if they want you to take the LPC or SQE.

Only certain students will have the choice to choose between the LPC and SQE, however.

Students completing law degrees

If you completed, started, accepted an offer of a place or paid a non-refundable deposit by 21 September 2021, you can choose between the traditional route and the SQE.

Graduates

Those who have already completed, started, accepted an offer of a place or paid a non-refundable deposit for a training contract, LPC, CPE or PGDL can choose between the LPC or SQE.

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Do Law Firms Still Require You to Take The LPC?

The short answer is that it depends! As the SRA have given law firms the flexibility to transition into the SQE route until 2032, whether the LPC is compulsory completely depends on the law firm you are applying for.

For example, some firms have announced that despite transitioning into the SQE route, they will still allow students to take the LPC instead of the SQE, before commencing their QWE.

Considering this, if you wish to follow the SQE route, do check what pathway the firm you are applying for requires!

What Route Are Magic Circle Firms Following?

Magic Circle Firms: SQE Preparation Start Date

- Allen & Overy: September 2023

- Clifford Chance: September 2023

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer: September 2022

Linklaters: September 2022

Slaughter and May: September 2022

As you can see, the Magic Circle has adopted different transitional arrangement approaches for the SQE.

Note that training seats for 2023/24 are now closed for these firms so prospective candidates for 2025 will be required to take the SQE to qualify to train with these firms.

LPC