Before anyone can act as a solicitor, they must clear two separate hurdles: earning the title and gaining the right to use it. The roll confirms who is a solicitor; the practising certificate confirms who may actually practise and carry out the activities the law reserves to authorised people. Getting this distinction right matters every day in practice — doing reserved work without authorisation is not just a regulatory breach but can be a criminal offence.
This lesson takes you through the full picture, from qualification to the duties that keep you authorised.
- Roll, Practising Certificate and Reserved Activities — what each one means, and which activities only authorised people may carry out.
- Requirements for Admission and the SQE — the four requirements for admission and how the SQE assessments work.
- Qualifying Work Experience — what counts, where it can be done, and who signs it off.
- Character and Suitability — the conduct the SRA examines and why dishonesty is treated so seriously.
- The Practising Certificate and Ongoing Duties — renewal, conditions, notifications, and continuing competence.
- Foreign-Qualified Lawyers — exemptions and the role of a Registered Foreign Lawyer.
- Rights of Audience — where a practising certificate lets you appear, and what's needed for the higher courts.