At GWCA, we are excited to celebrate National Careers Week 2025, a fantastic opportunity for individuals to explore different career paths and gain insight into various industries. If you have ever considered a career in law, now is the perfect time to learn about the diverse routes into the profession and how you can take your first steps towards a rewarding legal career.
Routes Into Law
A career in law is not a one-size-fits-all journey. There are multiple ways to enter the legal profession, catering to different educational backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations. Here are some of the main pathways:
- Traditional Route – University & Training Contract: Many solicitors qualify through the traditional route of completing a law degree (or a non-law degree followed by a law conversion course), passing the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations, and undertaking a two-year training contract with a law firm.
- CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives): CILEX offers an alternative path to qualifying as a legal professional without the need for a traditional law degree. This is an excellent option for those looking to qualify while working and gaining practical experience.
- Paralegal Route: Many individuals begin their legal career as a paralegal, gaining valuable experience in a legal setting before progressing to solicitor qualification through the SQE or other pathways.
At GWCA, we believe that access to the legal profession should be as open and inclusive as possible, and we are proud to support individuals on various routes into law.
Work Experience – Try It Out!
We understand that deciding on a career in law can be daunting, which is why we offer work experience placements to help individuals gain first-hand insight into life at a law firm. Our placements provide an opportunity to shadow experienced legal professionals, as well as offering a unique insight into life at a law firm. If you're interested in experiencing a career in law before making a commitment, we encourage you to apply!
Meet Our Trainee Solicitor – Paige Chapman
To give you an idea of what it's like to work at GWCA, we spoke to one of our current trainee solicitors, Paige Chapman, about her journey into law.
What inspired you to become a solicitor?
"I have always been passionate about helping people and problem-solving. Law offers the perfect combination of intellectual challenge and the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives."
What do you enjoy most about working at GWCA?
"The supportive and inclusive culture at GWCA has been invaluable. As a trainee, I have been given meaningful responsibilities, worked on interesting cases, and had the chance to learn from experienced solicitors. No two days are the same, and I love the variety!"
What advice would you give to someone considering a legal career?
"Be proactive in seeking opportunities to gain experience – whether through work experience, internships, or networking. The legal profession is diverse, so explore different areas of law to find what interests you most."
Start Your Legal Journey with Us
If National Careers Week has sparked your interest in law, why not take the next step? At GWCA, we are committed to nurturing future legal professionals and providing opportunities for individuals to explore and develop their legal careers.
If you would like to learn more about our work experience placements, trainee solicitor opportunities, or general vacancies, please visit our website or keep an eye on our social media platforms.
Your journey into law starts here – let’s make it happen!