How to become a Solicitor
Solicitors provide legal advice and prepare legal documents such as contracts. They represent clients in legal negotiations and processes such as the purchase of property, execution of a will or a criminal case.
Personal requirements for a Solicitor
- a passion for justice and fairness
- strong spoken and written communication skills
- self confidence and public speaking skills
- the ability to absorb and analyse large amounts of information
- a high level of accuracy and attention to detailthe ability to explain legal matters clearly to non-experts
- confidence and a persuasive manner
- the ability to work under pressure
- time management and strong organisational skillsgood business acumen.
Education & Training for a Solicitor
To become a Solicitor you usually have to complete a degree in law at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your senior secondary school certificate or equivalent with English. You can also undertake a combined degree in law and another discipline. The prerequisite subjects required for entry into these combined courses also depend on the chosen non-law component.In order to be eligible for admission to practice law, it is necessary to complete an accredited program of practical legal training (PLT) on completion of your degree. On completion of the required academic and practical legal training you may apply to the Supreme Court in your State for admission as a lawyer.Supervised practice working as a solicitor is required to obtain a practising certificate. Registration with the relevant state or territory board is also required.
Duties & Tasks of a Solicitor
Solicitors:
- Interview clients to determine the nature of problems, and recommend and undertake appropriate legal actionprepare cases for court by conducting investigations, undertaking research, arranging witness preparation and attendance, and giving notice of court actions
- Represent clients in court
- Manage conveyancing and other property matters by preparing contracts of sale, mortgage documents, lease documents and other documents relating to the transfer of land and buildings
- Prepare and critically reviewing contracts between parties
- Prepare wills
- Provide advice on family law, company law, partnerships, commercial law and trusts
- May act as trustee or guardian
- May act as executor of wills
Working conditions for a Solicitor
Long working hours are very common in the law. In some jobs you may be on call on weekends and public holidays, or need to attend police stations at any time of the day or night.
Future Growth
Positive
