Training contract

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A training contract is a period of practical training, tailor made for graduates who wish to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales. A full-time training contract is normally for a period of two years, and is undertaken by those who have completed the Legal Practice Course. The training contract is compulsory for anyone qualifying with a law degree and for anyone qualifying with a non-law degree.

A training contract is not normally required for anyone qualifying without a degree; non-graduates typically advance toward qualification by passing exams administered by the Institute of Legal Executives (ILEX) – all the while working under the supervision of a solicitor.

To carry out a training contract, a graduate must apply for an opening for such position at a law firm. The problem encountered is that the number of graduates applying for training contracts eclipses the number of available contracts per annum.