Studying Law in the UK versus the US

Written by Emily Liesegang

Introduction 

The paths to becoming a lawyer in the United Kingdom and the United States differ significantly, reflecting their distinct legal and educational systems. Factors like time, cost, and qualification requirements play a major role in determining the best option for aspiring lawyers. This overview outlines the educational steps required in each country and highlights their key differences. 

The UK Pathway 

In the UK, the legal profession is divided into solicitors, who handle client-facing work like drafting documents and managing transactions, and barristers, who specialise in courtroom advocacy and expert legal opinions. While both roles require legal education, the specific pathways differ slightly.  

Undergraduate Degree 

Most aspiring lawyers start with a three-year undergraduate degree in Law (an LL.B.), where you will cover core subjects like contract law, criminal law, and constitutional law, as required by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Non-law graduates can qualify by completing a conversion course known as the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL).  

Vocational Training and Work-Based Learning 

Solicitors undertake the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), introduced in 2021. This two-part exam assesses practical legal knowledge and skills. Meanwhile, barristers complete the Bar Training Course (BTC) and secure a one-year pupillage, gaining hands-on experience in chambers. Solicitors typically undergo a two-year training contract with a law firm. The SQE has made the process more flexible, enabling alternative routes like apprenticeships, which in 2023 accounted for over 20% of solicitor qualifications (Law Society, 2023). 

The US Pathway 

In the US, the route to becoming a lawyer is more standardised and takes longer than in the UK. 

Undergraduate Degree 

Aspiring lawyers must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree, with no specific major required as Law itself is not an option. Popular choices include political science, history, and pre-law. 

Law School 

After earning a bachelor’s degree, candidates must pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to enter a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. The curriculum includes foundational subjects like constitutional law and torts, along with electives for specialization. 

Bar Examination 

Upon graduation from law school, candidates must pass the bar exam in the state where they intend to practice. The bar exam is rigorous, with pass rates averaging 60-70% nationally (National Conference of Bar Examiners, 2023). Some states, like California, are notorious for their lower pass rates. Additionally, candidates undergo a character and fitness evaluation to ensure ethical suitability for the profession. 

Key Differences 

There are several key differences between these two processes. The UK process typically takes 5-6 years, compared to 7-8 years in the US. UK students can pursue law as an undergraduate degree, while the US requires a J.D. as a postgraduate qualification. 

Costs also differ significantly. US law school debt averages over $160,000 (American Bar Association, 2023), while UK legal education is generally more affordable. Career opportunities vary as well. UK solicitors work in law firms, corporations, or government roles, and barristers focus on courtroom advocacy. In contrast, US lawyers often specialize in areas like intellectual property or environmental law, reflecting a diverse legal market. 

Conclusion 

Both pathways demand rigorous training and reflect the legal traditions of their jurisdictions. Prospective lawyers must consider the timeline, costs, and professional requirements to make informed decisions about their careers. 

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Emily Liesegang is a first-year Law student at King’s College London, originally from the United States. She aims to pursue a career in corporate law as an English solicitor or an American lawyer.