21 July 2021
Legal professionals qualifying as solicitors via the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) route should be paid at least the same as trainees, the Law Society has said
The SQE, which is being phased in from this autumn with a view to replacing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) eventually, is split into two exams. Candidates must also complete two years of qualifying work experience at one or more approved providers.
As with providers of training contracts, those providing qualifying work experience will be expected to pay at least £20,217, or £22,794 in London.
Manda Banerji, chair of the Junior Lawyers Division, which worked with the Law Society on the issue, said ‘implementation of a recommended minimum salary for those completing training will have a positive impact on social mobility, equality and diversity within the legal profession’.
