Criminal Solicitor: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Criminal Solicitor
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Criminal Solicitor mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Criminal Solicitor?
A Criminal Solicitor is a type of lawyer who specialises in criminal law and represents individuals accused of crimes, providing advice and presenting cases in court. They work to protect a client's rights, understand the details of their charges, and formulate strategies for their defence.
Skills
- Strong knowledge of criminal law and legal procedures
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Analytical and critical thinking abilities
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Strong negotiation and persuasion skills
- Research and investigative skills
- Ability to build and maintain client relationships
- Courtroom advocacy and presentation skills
- Ethical and professional conduct
Qualifications & Education
- Qualifying law degree or postgraduate diploma
- One-year conversion course for graduates in subjects other than law
- One-year legal practice course
- Two-year training contract
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a criminal solicitor in the UK, you can either take the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or study the Legal Practice Course (LPC) if you are eligible. If you choose the SQE route, you will also need to complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).
It takes approximately three years to become a fully qualified criminal solicitor in the UK. This includes completing a one-year Legal Practice Course (LPC), followed by a two-year period of training in the workplace, and finally, a Professional Skills Course.
To become a criminal lawyer in the UK, you need to have a qualifying degree in law or a degree in any other discipline followed by the completion of the Graduate Diploma in Law.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Criminal Solicitor mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now