Solicitor Qualifying Examinations 1 (SQE1)

The SQE1, or Solicitors Qualifying Examination Part 1, is a key component in the pathway to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. It is designed primarily for aspiring solicitors who must demonstrate a practical and functioning knowledge of law applicable to the duties of a newly qualified solicitor.

What is SQE1?

SQE1 focuses on the assessment of Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) across two main exams, FLK1 and FLK2. These exams cover various legal subjects that are essential for practicing law in England and Wales:

FLK1 includes Business Law and Practice, Dispute Resolution, Contract, Tort, the Legal System of England and Wales, Constitutional and Administrative Law, EU Law, and Legal Services.

FLK2 covers Property Practice, Wills and the Administration of Estates, Solicitors Accounts, Land Law, Trusts, and Criminal Law and Practice.

how does sqe1 work?

The exams are designed to test candidates on their ability to apply legal principles in practical scenarios that a newly qualified solicitor might encounter. The format of the exam includes single best answer questions, where each question is followed by five potential answers, and candidates must select the most appropriate one. This format aims to evaluate candidates' understanding and application of core legal principles without the aid of books or notes.

what does sqe1 examine?

Application of Legal Principles

Candidates must demonstrate their capacity to apply legal principles to realistic client-based and ethical situations. This includes understanding client objectives, the legal outcomes of actions, and providing appropriate legal advice.

Ethics and Professional Conduct

These are examined pervasively throughout both FLK assessments, ensuring that candidates can act with honesty and integrity, consistent with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations.

Principles of Taxation

These are tested only in the context of Business Law and Practice, Property Law and Practice, and Wills and the Administration of Estates, focusing on the practical application of taxation rules in these areas.

key features of sqe1

Closed Book: The assessments are closed book, testing the candidate's ability to recall and apply legal principles without external resources.

Legal Jurisdiction Awareness: Candidates need to be aware of the differences in law between England and Wales, as applicable.

Legal Authorities: While specific case names or statutory provisions are generally not required to be memorised, candidates should be able to recognise and use them when they represent well-known legal principles or rules.

who is sqe1 for?

SQE1 is intended for those who wish to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales and have typically completed a law degree or equivalent legal education. The exam assesses readiness for practice at the level of a newly qualified solicitor, ensuring that candidates have a practical and working knowledge of the law as it stands, up to four months prior to the assessment date.

Overall, SQE1 plays a crucial role in the qualification process for solicitors, ensuring that they possess the necessary legal knowledge and professional skills to practice effectively and ethically.