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SRA unveils new report analysing SQE results

Four years on from the first set of Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) results being published, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has produced its most comprehensive SQE report yet. 

The SRA report covers the period between November 2021 and 2025 and analyses the performance of the different groups of candidates sitting the exam. The data for the report was drawn from eight SQE1 and twelve SQE2 exams and includes results from 30,000 candidates in 50 countries. 

Pass rates for candidates sitting SQE1 for the first time have ranged from 46% to 60%. First sittings of SQE2 achieved pass rates of between 69% to 84%. 

Once multiple attempts at the exam were included, pass rates grew to 66% for SQE1 and 85% for SQE2.

Factors impacting performance 

Interestingly, there was too much variance to link demographics to scores. Socio-economic background and ethnicity had very little impact on performance. 

The factors that had the most impact on exam results were the rankings of the universities attended by candidates, past academic achievement, and classification of degree. 

Apprentices performed particularly well, with a 71% pass rate on SQE1 and a 93% pass rate on SQE2. 

Candidates with declared disabilities performed at least as well as other candidates.  

Those who had already completed the LPC did not perform as well as others.

Ethnicity 

The SQE attracts more ethnically diverse candidates than the UK working population. 

 Of those surveyed/reported on, 28% of candidates were Asian or British Asian (compared with 10% of the working population), and 7% were Black or Black British (compared with 3% of the working population). 

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Future Lawyers at the National Apprenticeship Show 2026

Legal 500 Future Lawyers is thrilled to be part of the National Apprenticeship Show 2026.

We will be attending the London and Southeast show at Sandown Park Racecourse, Surrey. Catch us there on 10 and 11 February 2026.

The National Apprenticeship Show is Gen Z’s chance to explore exciting career pathways and meet employers offering amazing opportunities.

Whether you’re looking for apprenticeships, training, or advice, we’ll be there to help you take the next step with confidence.

Register for FREE tickets:
https://nationalapprenticeshipshow.org/london-se/

See you there!

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The Best Law Firms for Job Satisfaction

Each year we ask trainee solicitors to rate their job satisfaction. Unsurprisingly, the law firms that do well in this category often do well across the board.

Which makes sense, because the amount you enjoy your job will have a significant impact on your training experience.

In fact, it’s probably the single most important element which influences your overall happiness levels at work.

Factors such as pay, how much support you receive, quality of work, friendly colleagues and interesting clients play a huge role, but getting a kick out of your work is sure to make for a satisfied and therefore motivated trainee.

Recruits at these Legal 500 Future Lawyers Winner firms really enjoy their jobs and aren’t afraid to shout about it!

Head to the winners table to find out more and start your research now!

 

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Trainee retention rates autumn/winter 2025

A law firm’s trainee retention rate is an important thing to consider when applying for training contracts.

After spending around two years training, a trainee should be rewarded with a newly-qualified (NQ) position where they can put their legal skills into action.

And for the law firm, after having invested considerable time (and money) in training a trainee, it’s a time to recoup their investment.

This isn’t always what happens however. Sometimes due to budget constraints and business needs, not to mention personal choice, some trainees leave at the end of their training contracts.

Here is a round-up of the published retention rates of some of the top UK (and Future Lawyers featured) law firms in this autumn winter season.

Kirkland & Ellis  kept on 12 of its 12 qualifiers (100%)

Slaughter and May  kept on 37 of its 41 qualifiers (90%)

HSF Kramer kept on 29 of its 31 qualifiers (94%)

Pinsent Masons kept on 52 of its 71 qualifiers (73%)

Bird & Bird kept on 15 of its 20 qualifiers (75%)

Lewis Silkin kept on 5 of its 6 qualifiers (83%)

Goodwin kept on 11 of its 14 qualifiers (79%)

Mishcon de Reya  kept on 26 of its 30 qualifiers (87%)

Cripps kept on 12 of its 15 qualifiers (80%)

 

 

 

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Don’t miss vacation scheme deadlines!

If you do anything this month, make it vacation scheme applications. Most law firms set their spring and summer vacation scheme deadlines for the end of December or the end of January, so now’s the time to get your applications in. 

Our handy deadline table helps you keep on top of your applications.

With so many firms now recruiting solely through their vacation schemes, taking part in one really is the best route to getting a training contract.  

What is a vacation scheme? 

A vacation scheme is a one or two-week-long work placement at a law firm. During this time, you’ll usually sit in one or two departments and do trainee tasks, some of which might be assessed.   

You might also attend firm presentations, lunches with other vacation schemers and trainees, as well as social events.   

You’ll be assessed throughout, so be sure to be on your best behaviour, even at evening drinks.  

But you should also let your personality shine through. Ultimately, your potential future colleagues want to know if you’d be a good person to share an office with.

Vacation schemes are usually paid, with some law firms also offering to cover some expenses for the duration of the scheme, 

Why should you do a vacation scheme? 

A vacation scheme is a brilliant way for you to find out if the law firm in question is somewhere you’d like to work. 

There aren’t many other opportunities where you can ‘road test’ the work and office environment before committing to a new job. 

Vacation schemes are also a great way for the firm to see how you work, and whether they think you’d be a good fit. 

Different firms suit different people, and vacation schemes are the best way to find the best law firm for you.

Head to our Winners Table to see which firms have the best vacation schemes.  

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City of London Law Society and partners launch North East SQE scholarship in honour of Stephen Denyer

A new scholarship for aspiring social welfare solicitors in the North East of England has been launched to honour Stephen Denyer (pictured), former director of strategic relationships at the Law Society.

The Stephen Denyer Scholarship plans to support four individuals through their SQE1 and SQE2 qualifications, with one scholarship available per year.

Established by the City of London Law Society (CLLS), the City of London Solicitors Company (CLSC), the Social Welfare Solicitors Qualification Fund (SWSQF), and the North East Law Centre (NELC), as well as the Denyer Family, the scheme will be funded by a £50,000 family donation.

The SWSQF has also announced plans to match this pledge and fund an extra candidate per year for the next four years.

The scholarship is available to NELC employees.

Stephen Denyer was a partner in legacy Allen & Overy’s global markets team for 36 years, before retiring in 2014. He then worked with the Law Society, as well as the International Bar Association, where he served as co-chair of the Rule of Law Forum. Denyer passed away at the beginning of 2024, aged 68.

Patrick McCann, chief executive of the City of London Law Society and co-founder of SWSQF, said ‘Stephen was a gentle giant – intelligent, wise, and kind in equal measure. He had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, and for quietly moving mountains on behalf of people and causes he believed in.’

He continued: ‘This Scholarship ensures that his commitment to access to justice, to the North East, and to helping others into the profession will continue to make a difference for years to come.’

Helen Denyer, representative of the Denyer family, added: ‘Stephen cared deeply about increasing access to justice and helping lawyers enter the profession.’

‘Having had his own talent unlocked in the North East at Durham, he would be so pleased that his legacy now helps emerging talent qualify as social welfare solicitors here, using the law in the service of their communities.’

Centre director at the North East Law Centre Michael Fawole said the scholarship ‘will allow us to support and train talented future lawyers who might otherwise never have the opportunity to qualify as social welfare solicitors.

‘It strengthens our mission to widen access to justice across the North East, and we hope that others will be inspired by the Denyer Family’s generosity to help support aspiring social welfare lawyers across the UK.’

[email protected]

This story first appeared on Legal Business.

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Law School is failing to prepare 73% of lawyers for practice, survey finds

Nearly three quarters of US lawyers say that law school did not prepare them for the demands of working in a law firm, according to a survey of 132 attorneys by in-house legal recruiter Paragon. 

73% of those surveyed wish their legal education had focused more on business development and client management, work-life balance strategies, mental health and resilience, and managing their own practice and finances. 

The survey also asked attorneys what they considered to be their top work priority: income, flexibility or prestige. Autonomy and salary were equally important to attorneys (49% each) while prestige was only cited as the main career driver by 3% of respondents.  

“Today’s junior lawyers are choosing flexibility over traditional markers of success, such as fancy titles. Half say autonomy is just as important as salary, and one in four has already turned down promotions to protect it” says Trista Engel, CEO, Paragon Legal. 

But, whilst work-life balance is increasingly important to attorneys, 54% of those surveyed said that they felt the need to hide their desire for flexibility in the workplace. Among Gen Z lawyers specifically, the percentage was even higher at 81%. 

The results point to a golden opportunity for in-house legal departments – which are traditionally associated with more flexible legal careers – to attract and retain ambitious lawyers. 

“Today’s legal careers are far more flexible than many students realize, if you know where to look. The traditional climb through law firms still exists, but it’s no longer the only or even the primary route to a meaningful legal career. Attorneys are prioritizing autonomy, balance, and purpose, and the profession is evolving to meet those expectations. That’s opening doors for new talent to build careers that actually match their lives”, says Engel.

To read the full survey results, click here.

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How to be a Successful Law Student

Success as a student demands not only strong academic skills, but also effective study habits, disciplined time management, and genuine engagement with your chosen field of study.

In the latest instalment of the Legal 500 Future Lawyers blog,  law student and aspiring barrister Malcolm Glover sets out his tips designed to help you excel in your law – or any other degree programme.

Master the Basics

Understand the core concepts: law is built on foundational subjects such as contract law, torts, public law and criminal law. It is of paramountcy to grasp these topics before delving into more intricate topics.

Study statutes and case law: the law is firmly grounded in case law and statutes. It is essential to read and analyse landmark cases alongside the relevant statutes to understand how legal principles have evolved over time.

Effective Time Management

Prepare in advance: Create a detailed study schedule, breaking down your reading and assignments week by week, then day by day. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so prioritise your tasks according to deadlines.

Don’t be a crammer: Exams often require deep analysis and application of knowledge. Consistently improving by just 1% each day is more effective than pushing yourself with intense bursts of effort, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout for days or even weeks.” Regular study will ensure retention of information.

Consistent study: Set aside a couple of hours each day for study and stick to a rigid routine.

Learning Techniques

Summarise your notes: After each lecture or seminar, take time to review your notes and create concise summaries which reinforce your learning.

Discuss with your peers: Form study groups or discussion circles. Explaining concepts to others helps to deepen your own understanding.

Develop your Writing Skills (NOW!)

Practise essay writing: Most exams and assignments are essay-based.

Practise structuring your essays in a clear, logical and concise manner. Refine your writing by engaging in regular practice—write for the sheer enjoyment of it. Express your opinions on topics that captivate you and then share your work with a friend or family member to find out whether your ideas are conveyed clearly. One of the most effective ways to improve your writing is to immerse yourself in examples by fine writers such as some of my personal favourites Lord Denning, George Orwell and Mark Twain. Cultivate a habit of reading extensively. Read, read, and read some more.

Stay precise and concise: Law is about precision. Avoid excessive jargon. Focus your efforts on clarity in expressing your legal points.

Stay Up to Date with Legal Developments

Follow current events: Stay up to date with the news and ongoing cases to broaden your understanding of ongoing debates and emerging trends in the law.

ALWAYS Seek Feedback

Get feedback on your work: Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback on assignments, essays, and exam practice from your lecturer. Use this constructive feedback to improve your approach. Apply the feedback from professors or tutors to your next pieces of work.

Look After Your Well-Being

Rest: It’s not all work and no play. Take regular breaks; you’re allowed to rest. A rested mind is more efficient.

Networking and Extra-Curricular Activities

Moot court or debates: Participation in moots court, debates, mini pupillages and vacation schemes provide you with valuable practical exposure to the legal profession.

Discipline rewards diligence, consistency, and remember “Ad astra per aspera” …through hardships to the stars”.

Malcolm Glover

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How much do NQ solicitors earn?

Junior solicitor salaries have been making headlines recently. But how much do law firms really pay?

In this blog we take a closer look at the factors affecting how much you can expect to paid at different firms. Or if you’d rather go straight to the numbers, head to our salary comparison table.

The salary for newly-qualified (NQ) solicitors can vary significantly, but the two main things which will affect the amount you get paid are: 

  1. The size and type of firm
  2. Location

Size and type of law firm 

The highest NQ salaries can usually be found at US firms. These are firms which are headquartered in the USA but have an office in London. US firms typically match their UK NQ salaries with what they pay solicitors of the equivalent level over the pond.

(Please note that the figures below relate to Legal 500 Future Lawyers profiling firms only.)

Currently, the firm that pays the highest NQ salary in London is White & Case at £175,000.

Just behind are Latham & Watkins, Morrison Foerster, Kirkland & Ellis, Akin and Milbank. These firms pay their NQs the equivalent of $225,000, which works out as £174,000 at the time of conversion (1 November 2024).

Next up are the Magic Circle firms. These are the largest and highest-grossing firms in the UK. Magic Circle firm Clifford Chance pays its NQ solicitors £150,000 a year.  

‘Silver Circle’ and other (often international) City firms are hot on the heels of the Magic Circle when it comes to NQ salaries. Macfarlanes pays £140,000 a year. 

At a national firm or a boutique London firm you can expect to earn around £70,000 – £90,000 a year as a NQ solicitor. 

Location 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the highest salaries are found in London. This is because many of the biggest firms have their main UK office in London, but is also because of London weighting. Higher rent, mortgage and living costs mean that salaries in London are slightly higher than in other parts of the UK. 

That’s not to say that you can’t earn a high salary elsewhere, though. In Bristol a NQ will earn £82,000 at TLT or  £72,000 a year at Osborne Clarke.

Elsewhere in the UK you can expect to earn £58,000 in Manchester and £50,000 in Glasgow at TLT.  At the regional offices of Irwin Mitchell , NQs earn between £44,000 – £55,000 a year.

This is only a selection of NQ salaries. Consult our Compare Law Firm Salaries table to see details of salaries at all Legal 500 Future Lawyers firms. 

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Herbert Smith Freehills set for $2bn transatlantic merger with Kramer Levin

Following this May’s A&O Shearman merger, there had been no shortage of market speculation about which transatlantic duo would be next to tie the knot.

However, few would have predicted today’s news that Herbert Smith Freehills is set to combine with New York’s Kramer Levin, a deal which will create a new $2bn, 2,700-lawyer firm.

The proposed tie-up, which the firms announced in a joint statement, remains subject to a partner vote at both firms, but if confirmed, is set to go live on 1 May next year.

The combined firm will be known as Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer – operating as HSF Kramer in the US – and will operate with one single global profit pool, following in the footsteps of A&O Shearman, which also eschewed the verein model.

While HSF is the much larger of the two firms, with 23 offices across Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, New York and South Africa, Kramer Levin is the more profitable, with 2023 profit per equity partner of $2.41m (£1.87m), according to law.com, compared to HSF’s 2023-24 figure of £1.315m.

HSF’s revenues of £1.3bn will be boosted by around £330m by the deal, pushing it past the $2bn mark and placing it on the fringes of the world’s 25 largest law firms.

While HSF has had a New York base since 2012 – the same year of the merger of the UK’s Herbert Smith with Australia’s Freehills – it has long harboured ambitions to bulk up in the States. In a statement, HSF chair and senior partner Rebecca Maslen-Stannage (pictured) described the deal as ‘transformational’.

‘We have long been committed to expanding our offering in the US and Kramer Levin is the perfect fit,’ she said. ‘The combination delivers immediate growth for both firms from day one.’ Global CEO Justin D’Agostino added that the deal was ‘just the beginning… an excellent long-term, strategic move.’

Kramer Levin is led by co-managing partners Howard Spilko and Paul Schoeman, who described the deal as ‘a one-of-a-kind opportunity’, while also citing the firms’ cultural alignment.

In addition to its three US offices in New York, Washington DC and Silicon Valley, Kramer Levin also has a well-established Paris base, which has been in operation. since 1999.

In terms of practice strength, Kramer Levin has five top-tier Legal 500 rankings, for advertising and marketing litigation; immigration; land use/zoning and both corporate and municipal restructuring.

The US firm also has rankings for commercial disputes, employment litigation and appellate work, adding heft to HSF’s traditional disputes credentials, as well as transactional capabilities in mid-market M&A and private equity.

In the announcement of the deal, the firms cited shared strengths in private capital, M&A, restructuring, securitisation, real estate, white collar corporate crime and investigations, class actions, IP, and arbitration.

This story first appeared on Legal Business.