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Not a student or graduate
The Preliminary Examination provides an avenue of entry to becoming a solicitor if you do not otherwise qualify for this training - for example, if you do not hold a degree at level 7 or a Diploma in Law from The Law Society of Ireland or King’s Inns, or you are not currently studying for a degree, or you do not meet the criteria for a Law Clerk / Legal Executive.
Step 1: Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is held once a year, usually in March. Candidates must be at least 21 years of age on or before the date of the first exam.
Step 2: Final Examination – First Part (FE-1)
The Final Examination – First Part (FE-1) is the entrance examination to the Law Society of Ireland's Professional Practice Course (PPC) for training to become a solicitor.
Step 3: Training Contract
After completing the FE-1, you will need to find a solicitor to train you and enter into a Training Contract.
Step 4: PPC
The Professional Practice Course (PPC) at the Law Society of Ireland is designed to prepare you for work as a solicitor. It is available as an in-person full-time course or a part-time hybrid course.
Step 5: In-office training
Upon completing the Professional Practice Course (PPC) trainee solicitors are required to complete two years of in-office training.
Step 6: Admission to the Roll Of Solicitors
When you have successfully completed your PPC examinations and your in-office training you may apply to have your name entered on the Roll of Solicitors.
Step 7: Practising Certificate
It is the statutory responsibility of each solicitor to ensure that they have a Practising Certificate (PC) in force before providing legal services of any kind whatsoever. After admission to the Roll of Solicitors, you can apply for your PC.