In our Law mini-series podcast, our Law Employability and Careers Consultants; Rachel, Tess and Sunny, talk to experienced professionals from both legal and non-legal sectors to hear their career experiences and advice.
In this episode we are joined by Simon Carr, Senior Business Development Representative at CILEX (Chartered Institute for Legal Executives). Qualifying as a CILEX lawyer is a completely different route from the SQE route. It happens while you are working, there is a fast track route for law graduates, the exams are all online and the pace is learner-led.
The exams are roughly half the cost of the SQE and the pass rate is double. Once you are qualified the work and pay rates can be identical to solicitors; you can become a partner, a judge, work in higher courts, and set up your own legal practice.
25% of CILEX lawyers are in the South West so there are lots of opportunities here, one notable example of a local law firm employing lots of CILEX lawyers and with a CILEX lawyer as a partner is Foot Anstey.
In addition to this episode you can find more information to help with career planning here; University of Exeter Career Zone , My Career Zone, Law and legal services: Information for Law and Non-Law Students , Employability for Law Students and The Law School.