GDL: Your Pathway to Becoming a Solicitor

Becoming a solicitor is an exciting career path, but it requires dedication, commitment, and the right qualification. If you have a non-law degree or want to switch career paths, the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) could be the key to unlocking your potential as a solicitor. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about the GDL and how it can pave the way for your journey to becoming a solicitor.

What is the GDL?

The GDL is a conversion course that enables individuals with non-law degrees to gain the necessary legal knowledge and skills required to progress towards a career in law. It acts as a bridge between your current degree and the Legal Practice Course (LPC), the next step towards qualifying as a solicitor.

Through the GDL, you will study the core principles of law, providing a solid foundation for more specialized legal subjects. It covers areas such as contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, and more. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that you develop a strong understanding of the legal system and its key principles.

Why choose the GDL?

The GDL offers numerous advantages for aspiring solicitors:

1. Widens career options: The GDL opens doors to various legal career paths, including top law firms, in-house legal departments, government agencies, and more. It gives you the flexibility to explore different areas of law before deciding on a specialization.
2. Holistic legal knowledge: The GDL covers a broad range of legal subjects, equipping you with a comprehensive understanding of the law. This knowledge will be invaluable throughout your legal career.
3. Academic rigor: Undertaking the GDL demonstrates your ability to handle complex legal concepts, enhancing your employability and setting you apart from other candidates.
4. Smooth transition to the LPC: By completing the GDL, you fulfill the academic stage of legal training required for entry onto the LPC.

Applying for the GDL

Before applying for the GDL, ensure that you meet the entry requirements set by the various institutions offering the course. Typically, you will need to hold a non-law degree or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

When applying, highlight any relevant work experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to law. Competition for places can be fierce, so make your application stand out by showcasing your passion and dedication to pursuing a legal career.

To find a list of institutions offering the GDL and their respective admission criteria, refer to the SRA website or contact your chosen institutions directly.

Next Steps: LPC and SQE

Upon successful completion of the GDL, the next step on your pathway to becoming a solicitor is to undertake the Legal Practice Course (LPC). The LPC is a vocational stage of legal training that focuses on developing the practical skills required to practice as a solicitor.

Starting from 2021, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) will replace the LPC as the final assessment for solicitors. The SQE consists of two stages: SQE1 and SQE2. For more information about the SQE and how to prepare for it, check out our related articles:

• SQE 1 Practice Exam Questions
• SQE 1 Practice Mocks FLK1 FLK2
• SQE 2 Preparation Courses
• SQE 1 Preparation Courses
• SRA SQE Exam Dates

By successfully completing the LPC or the SQE, you will achieve the final step towards qualifying as a solicitor, granting you entry into the legal profession.

Conclusion

The GDL is an essential stepping stone on your journey to becoming a solicitor. It provides the necessary foundation of legal knowledge, widening your career options and preparing you for the next stages of legal training. If you have a non-law degree or are considering a career change, the GDL could be the perfect pathway to kickstart your ambitions in the legal profession.

For more information on how to apply for the GDL or other legal training considerations, get in touch with our expert team at Become Solicitor SRA.