Written by Elizabeth Godfrey, Trainee Solicitor in our Employment and HR Services department.
Retraining as a solicitor after a career in forensic science
After more than 15 years working as a forensic scientist and manager, Elizabeth Godfrey made the bold move to retrain as a solicitor.
When I decided to retrain as a solicitor after more than 15 years working in the forensic science industry, I knew I wasn’t following the “traditional” path into law.
I hold a degree in forensic science, and in my previous career I worked initially as a scientist, specialising in toxicology, before progressing to managing all the laboratory’s operational and commercial activities.
Unlike many aspiring solicitors, I had no existing connections in the legal industry and as I had not studied a law degree, I did not have the support of peers going through the same qualification journey.
Yet what I’ve discovered at Hugh James is that these differences are not barriers, they are strengths.
Making transferable skills count in a legal career
Previous professional experience can be a real advantage when retraining as a solicitor.
From the outset, Hugh James have recognised and celebrated the value of my previous career by assigning me to seats that have synergies to my background.
During my second seat in the Clinical Negligence team, I found that my scientific experience gave me a real advantage. Having previously reviewed complex data, worked with demanding caseloads, and produced clear, structured reports, I was able to transfer these skills directly into my legal work.
Applying scientific and management experience to trainee solicitor seats
Career changers often bring unique perspectives to different areas of law.
In my third seat in the Employment & HR Services team, I am building on my management experience to support clients with workplace issues. Having dealt first-hand with matters such as long-term sickness, disciplinaries, redundancies, and changes of contract, I appreciate the emotional and commercial aspects involved. My background gives me a practical perspective, helping me to understand not only how to resolve legal disputes but also how to prevent them through effective strategy, training, and policy development.
Qualifying through the SQE route
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has opened new pathways into law for candidates from other industries.
The introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has been transformative for those of us joining the profession from other industries. The SQE provides flexibility to demonstrate competence without requiring the traditional law degree and LPC route.
I passed both SQE examinations first time in the top quintile of candidates prior to obtaining any formal legal work experience, which I believe demonstrates the value of my transferable skills from my previous career. As a trainee, Hugh James will fund the SQE2 training course and exam.
Advice for anyone considering a non-traditional route into law
Your previous career can be your superpower when training to become a solicitor.
For anyone considering a non-traditional route into law: your previous experience is your career superpower. The SQE has opened doors to the profession, and firms like Hugh James recognise the value of transferable skills and the importance of diverse backgrounds in creating a dynamic and innovative workforce.
Changing careers is challenging, but with the right support, it’s also incredibly rewarding.
