Legal Practice Course (LPC)

What is it?
The Legal Practice Course (LPC) is the vocational stage of training for aspiring solicitors. It is designed to prepare students for their training contracts. The course attempts to convey an understanding of law and it application to practical issues. The training contract, usually with a firm of solicitors, lasts two years.

After successful completion of the training contract and receipt of your practising certificate from the Law Society you are entitled to call yourself a solicitor. The Law Society of England and Wales conducts regular monitoring visits to course providers to assess courses.

For more information, visit www.lpc.lawsociety.org.uk. The various LPC providers also have their individual websites to provide students with more information. Application forms and guidance notes are available from www.lawcabs.ac.uk.

While applying, you are permitted to choose up to 3 institutions at which you would be prepared to study. You must sell yourself on the application form, giving convincing reasons for choosing a legal career, outlining your aspirations and offering evidence of your commitment to the profession. A referee is also required to vouch for your academic achievements and commitment to law.

Most firms are satisfied with you attending LPC providers rated as "very good" or "excellent" by the Law Society, though some firms do specifically indicate the institutions they prefer. Remember to confirm such preferences with the firm providing you with the training contract prior to applying for an LPC place.