You’re almost there. Once you’ve passed both parts of your SQE and have finished your QWE, it’s time to apply to the Roll of Solicitors of England and Wales. This is also the point when your character and suitability will be checked.
Application
To apply for admission as a solicitor, you need to go to the mySRA website and start the process. There are two steps:
Pre-admission screening (includes DBS check or equivalent)
Admission application (includes character and suitability assessment)
When you apply, the SRA will confirm the following as part of your application (subject to available exemptions):
You’ve successfully passed the SQE assessments
You hold a degree, or qualifications/experience the SRA deems equivalent
You’ve finished two years of QWE
You meet the character and suitability requirements needed to be a solicitor
The SRA usually takes around 30 days to assess applications, although it could take longer if you disclose any character/suitability issues, need your QWE assessed externally, or need an overseas criminal record check.
What are the character and suitability requirements?
The SRA carries out these checks to make sure all solicitors are able to adequately protect the public and public interest, and maintain public trust and confidence in the solicitors’ profession and in legal services provided by authorised persons.
The main things the SRA looks at when it comes to character and suitability are:
General character (e.g. if you’ve behaved in a violent, dishonest, or discriminatory way)
Conduct and behaviour, including any criminal activity
Aggravating and mitigating factors
Misuse of your position
You can read more about the SRA’s rules and assessment criteria on their website. If you’re concerned that something might come up as part of your checks, it’s always best to apply to the SRA for an early check before you spend time and money preparing for the SQE.
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