Articles From the Team

Do you need to be qualified to be a conveyancer?

This is a question I’m asked more frequently than ever, and during my time in practice and legal recruitment, I’ve noticed a massive shift in opinion.

Whilst some firms prefer their conveyancers to possess professional qualifications, insisting on hiring solicitors only, I’ve seen an increase in firms considering applicants who have years of experience in the industry instead.

This is because many firms are in a position to support professional development and a lot of the larger conveyancing providers offer in-house training, which allows junior staff to receive both practical and theoretical experience at their desk.

These firms are keen to take on bright and ambitious assistants and trainees who are given all the tools and training necessary to develop and advance their careers.

If you’re thinking about a career in conveyancing, here are two routes to consider:

1. Training on the job

One way to jumpstart your legal career is to get a foot in the door; for example, as a legal secretary, assistant or trainee conveyancer. However, there’ll still be expectations about your education: firms will look for good grades in Maths and English. As stated above, if you want to qualify eventually, some firms offer in-house or external training in order for you to do so.

2. Formal Qualification

There are a number of formal qualification routes:

• Many qualified solicitors choose to practice in conveyancing - if this route appeals to you, check out the SRA’s handy guide, which is filled with hints and tips
• Another option to look into is becoming a licensed conveyancer. For more information on this route to qualification have a look at this CLC guide
• You could also gain professional qualifications via the legal executive route. Information on becoming CILEx or FILEx qualified can be found here

All-in-all, you don’t need to be qualified if you’re able to demonstrate experience (in conveyancing) and have a strong record and technical ability to carry out the role.