Law

The legal sector is suited to those with strong academic skills and an ability to work well with others. There are several roles available in this sector, but for many graduates the most interesting roles will be those of barrister (advocate) and solicitor.

For information on alternative legal careers, see Prospects’ what can I do with a law degree page.

Key skills that are useful in this sector include:

  • analysis and research skills
  • attention to detail
  • the ability to work under pressure
  • good time and project management
  • the ability to work as part of a team, as well as independently.

For job profiles and detailed information on pursuing a career in the legal sector, see the Prospects website:

Law profile

Contents

How to get a job

The route to getting a job in law in the UK depends on whether you are planning to work in England and Wales, or in Scotland. For details on the processes involved, see:

In England and Wales, the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) was introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in September 2021. It replaced the Legal Practice Course and Graduate Diploma in Law, and is a 'super-exam' for graduates seeking to qualify as solicitors.

For advice and information about the SQE, see the Law Society's SQE page and Prospects' SQE overview.

Make a connection

To prepare for a career in law, you should research the sector carefully. You should also talk with people who are in the sector already. This is especially important for the more competitive roles in this sector, such as that of barrister.

To connect with people already working in the sector, consider joining Saint Connect, the University of St Andrews’ exclusive, global, online community for networking and career mentoring. See more ideas for making a connection.

You should also consider joining the:

Work experience

Work experience is an essential requirement for gaining employment in this sector, as well as for undertaking solicitor, barrister and advocate training.

There are many ways to gain work experience, from insight days and longer-term internships to voluntary work and mini-pupillages. For details of the range of experiences available and how to get them, see Prospects’ law work experience page and AllAboutLaw’s guide to vacation schemes. The Kalisher Trust also offer internships, usually in the spring. 

Find internships (Careers Centre)

Attend events

The Careers Centre often puts on events where you can talk to employers visiting St Andrews. Visit the events page for more information.

Finding a job

Check out our job listings for vacancies or see the resources below for jobs in the legal sector.

Find jobs (Careers Centre)

Jobs in the UK

Jobs outside the UK

Applying for a job

When applying for jobs in this sector, you can expect to do at least some of the following: 

The application process for legal jobs may vary according to which company you are applying to. Research the company to understand the skills, competencies and values they are looking for. Also check the company’s website, as many provide details on their recruitment and selection processes. 

If you would like personalised help on any aspect of applying for a job, you can book an appointment with a careers adviser.    

Applying for a job

Additional resources

Legal sector news, insider insights, careers advice, and funding opportunities:

Commercial awareness:

Researching law firms:

Funding opportunities: