What is a legal executive apprenticeship?

Feb 10, 2018

Written By Emma Finamore, Editor, AllAboutSchoolLeavers.co.uk

A legal executive apprenticeship is a training and work programme during which school leavers qualify as a legal executive without having to pay university tuition fees. In fact, apprentices are paid a good, full-time salary for the duration of their programme.

It is a five year, Level 6 apprenticeship course which develops onwards from the paralegal apprenticeship, solidifying legal skills amongst the candidates in order to allow them to progress their careers. They will learn how to negotiate on behalf of clients, and also how to represent them in both formal and informal proceedings.

What will I do on a legal executive apprenticeship?

During a legal executive apprenticeship, trainees will take on various roles and responsibilities.

These could include:

- Taking client instructions

- Managing the inception, progression and completion of client matters

- Communication (written and oral) with internal and external clients

- Reviewing documents

- Drafting and producing legal documents

- Conducting and applying legal research

- Handling confidential and sensitive information

- Managing and applying financial information

- Negotiating on behalf of clients and representing clients in informal and formal proceedings

- Making decisions in legal matters based on legal principles or the rule of law and within all legal and regulatory requirements

What qualifications will I get on a legal executive apprenticeship?

Apprentices on a Chartered Legal Executive programme will work towards current Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) qualifications, although those holding certain qualifications, such as a law degree, may be eligible for exemptions. These are the CILEx Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice, and the CILEx Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law and Practice.

Apprentices will be registered members of CILEx for the duration of their apprenticeship. There are different membership grades at different points of the route to becoming a Chartered Legal Executive. CILEx members are regulated by CILEX Professional Standards (IPS) and apprentices must demonstrate that they meet the regulatory requirements necessary to become a CILEx member.

Legal Apprenticeships