Barrister vs Solicitor
Considering a job in law but don’t fully understand the difference between a barrister and a solicitor?
Barristers and solicitors are both referred to as lawyers, despite the differences in their roles. Read our guide on barristers vs solicitors, and learn all about what is a solicitor and what is a barrister, so you can decide which career is right for you.
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What is the difference between a barrister and a solicitor?
Often, solicitors and barristers work closely together, however the roles themselves are different. Both professions are essential to the law field and there is no hierarchy or more important role. As they both serve an equally important purpose, choosing which path you take comes down to a personal preference.
Solicitors
Although there are some exceptions, generally, a solicitor’s focus tends to be outside the courtroom. They are qualified legal practitioners who provide legal advice and services such as drafting contracts and negotiating settlements. Solicitors often work for law firms, in-house legal departments, or in private organisations and areas of government. They can work for a range of clients from individuals to organisations. Unlike barristers, solicitors have no set uniform.
Barristers
A barrister's role is predominantly within and in preparation for the courtroom. They are qualified legal practitioners who provide expert advice, research, and advocacy for their clients. Barristers are often self-employed in chambers, however can also work in-house in private organisations or government agencies. Barristers are also expected to wear their gowns and wigs when representing their clients.
Solicitor advocate
The role of a solicitor advocate is a combination of solicitor and barrister. Solicitor advocates generally specialise in civil or criminal litigation and have obtained a higher certification that allows them to represent their clients in court. This is beneficial to clients because they receive consistent support throughout their case, from start to court.What qualifications do you need?
Just like the role of a solicitor and barrister differs, so does the training needed to qualify as one. Read on to find out more about the qualifications for solicitors vs barristers.
Solicitor qualifications
To become a solicitor, candidates must take the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and pass the suitability requirements set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. The full journey typically looks something like this:
You must have, or undertake an undergraduate degree or equivalent level qualification such as a degree apprenticeship. If it is not in law, it is recommended that a law conversion course be completed because a foundation knowledge of law will be required for the next step.
You must then complete both stages of the SQE exam, SQE1 and SQE2.
You must also complete a total of two years of qualifying work experience (QWE).
Once all of the above is completed, you will then need to pass the character and suitability requirements.
Barrister qualifications
To become a barrister you must take a Bar training course, also known as the Bar exam. The general route to becoming a barrister is as follows:
You must complete a qualifying law degree - either an undergraduate law degree or a law conversion course.
You must then complete postgraduate level bar training - BPP’s is called the Barrister Training Course.
Join an Inn of Court and undertake a range of qualifying sessions.
On successful completion of these sessions, you would then be called to the Bar.
You will then complete your pupillage. A pupillage is split into two parts: a non-practising period of six months – the ‘first six’ – and then a practising period of six months – the ‘second six’. During the second six, you will be eligible to oversee cases on your own, albeit under close supervision.
Once you have completed your pupillage, you may be considered for tenancy.
Barrister vs Solicitor skills
We’ve discussed how the roles and responsibilities of barristers and solicitors are different; however, the skill sets required to thrive within the roles are different too.
Solicitor skills
A solicitor’s main focus is outside the courtroom, so they need to possess strong writing, comprehension, and research skills that will serve them when drafting legal documents, and preparing for cases. Solicitors are also required to have excellent people skills to build and maintain trust and confidence within their client relationships. It also goes without saying that for a role as demanding as this, that organisation and work ethic are also paramount to the profession.
Barrister skills
As the barrister’s main role is to defend and protect their client within the courtroom, their strengths must lie in their ability to articulate and communicate their arguments. Public speaking skills are vital to this role, as are confidence and decorum. It is also important for barristers to possess strong people skills, as examining witnesses and appealing to judges and juries is a big part of this role. However, like any law profession, strong academic abilities are also required.
How long does it take to become as a lawyer?
How long it takes to become a lawyer depends on whether you are training to become a solicitor or a barrister and if you can train full-time.
To become a solicitor, you will need an undergraduate degree, time to complete SQE 1 and 2, and two years of qualifying work experience. How long that takes depends on how you balance your work, life, and study commitments.
For barristers, qualification can take up to six years. That time comprises a three-year undergraduate degree, a one-year conversion course if necessary, a one-year Bar course, and a one-year pupillage.
Solicitor vs Barrister salary
If you’re debating whether to become a solicitor or a barrister, then you may also be considering the difference in pay to make your decision. In both professions, experience and speciality also affect remuneration.
Solicitor salary
Several factors affect a solicitor’s salary. Firstly, the employer and type of employment make a difference. High street law firms tend to have a higher starting salary, whereas smaller firms are often less.
According to recruiting consultancy Morgan McKinley, a newly qualified solicitor in London can expect a starting salary of between £65,000 and £80,000 a year. Figures for newly qualified solicitors outside of London may be slightly lower.
You can also expect your solicitor salary to increase with experience gained. Certain areas of speciality will also fetch a higher wage.
Barrister salary
When training to be a barrister, the Bar Standards Board sets a minimum salary for candidates undertaking a pupillage, at £21,000.
A newly qualified barrister's salary is around £40,000, however, barristers in London with five years of experience can expect a salary between £50,000 and £200,000. However, as they are self-employed, there is often less financial stability than with a solicitor’s career.
The employer and area of expertise can also affect a barrister's salary, for example, corporate barristers generally earn more than criminal barristers.
Final thoughts
Although the requirements may differ from country to country, qualifying as a lawyer is a challenging journey that pays off. Whatever lawyer career path is the best fit for you, each one offers its own unique rewards and experiences.
As legislation and technology is subject to frequent updates, it’s important to stay flexible and prioritise your learning.
Looking to learn?
Begin your legal career journey with BPP’s extensive law courses. You can also find support on how to secure a legal career with help on your application.
FAQs
A barrister is not higher than a solicitor and there is no hierarchy in the field. It is common for barristers and solicitors to work together on cases.