Before diving deeper into how to get into corporate law, it’s worth noting that we have already addressed the question of which law college is best for corporate law. Understanding that foundation, it’s important to first grasp what corporate law involves and what it takes to enter this field. Corporate law is a prestigious and fast-paced area of legal practice focused on advising businesses on a wide range of issues, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, regulatory compliance, contracts, and financial regulations. For those aiming to get into this competitive sector in the UK, success depends on a combination of strong academic qualifications, practical experience, and professional accreditation. This article provides a general overview followed by a detailed step-by-step guide on how to build a career in corporate law in the UK.
Detailed Guide to Get into Corporate Law in the UK
1. Obtain a Law Degree or Equivalent Qualification
The foundational step to enter corporate law is to complete a qualifying law degree (LLB) from a recognised UK university, which covers essential legal subjects such as contract law and company law. If you have a non-law degree—such as business, finance, or economics—you must complete a law conversion course like the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to cover the core legal principles. Achieving a strong academic record (usually a 2:1 or above) is crucial for securing future opportunities in this competitive field.
2. Focus on Corporate Law-Related Modules and Develop Commercial Awareness
While studying, it is beneficial to choose optional modules related to corporate law, such as company law, commercial law, or financial regulation. This academic focus helps build relevant knowledge for your future career. Alongside academic learning, developing commercial awareness—understanding how businesses operate and the economic environment—is vital for success in corporate law.
3. Complete Vocational Training: SQE or LPC
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the new standard route to qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales, replacing the traditional Legal Practice Course (LPC). The SQE consists of two stages: SQE1 tests legal knowledge, and SQE2 assesses practical legal skills. After passing these exams, candidates must complete two years of qualifying work experience (QWE), which can be gained through training contracts or equivalent placements.
4. Secure a Training Contract or Qualifying Work Experience
A training contract is a two-year paid position at a law firm or organisation where you rotate through different departments, including corporate law. This hands-on experience is essential to develop practical skills such as drafting contracts, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and understanding corporate governance. Training contracts are highly competitive, so gaining relevant internships, vacation schemes, or placements in corporate law departments during university is important to strengthen your application and get into the profession.
5. Develop Key Skills for Corporate Law
Successful corporate lawyers possess a diverse skill set:
- Legal expertise: Deep understanding of UK business laws and regulations.
- Negotiation skills: Ability to negotiate deals and contracts effectively.
- Analytical thinking: Ability to interpret complex legal and financial information.
- Communication: Clear and persuasive communication with clients and colleagues.
- Commercial awareness: Insight into business operations and market trends.
6. Qualify and Begin Practising
After completing the SQE and the required work experience, you can apply to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to be admitted as a solicitor. Newly qualified corporate lawyers typically start as associates, handling client matters and corporate transactions. Over time, they can progress to senior associate, legal director, and eventually partner roles, with salaries increasing significantly at each stage. Many also transition to in-house legal teams within corporations, where work-life balance may be more favourable.
7. Consider Further Specialisation to Advance Your Career
Some aspiring corporate lawyers pursue postgraduate qualifications such as an LLM in Corporate Law or International Commercial Law to deepen their expertise and enhance career prospects. Universities offer specialised LLM programmes that combine legal, economic, and financial perspectives on corporate law, helping graduates get into more advanced roles within the field.
As we have already addressed the question, “Are corporate lawyers in demand?” it’s clear that entering this field remains highly competitive but rewarding. Getting into corporate law in the UK requires strong academic performance, practical experience, and professional qualification. By following the structured path of legal education, vocational training, and gaining hands-on experience through training contracts or qualifying work placements, you can build a successful career advising businesses on complex legal matters. With excellent salary potential and diverse career progression opportunities, corporate law continues to be one of the most sought-after legal specialisms in the UK.
Which University Is Best for Corporate Law?
Choosing the right university to study corporate law in the UK is a pivotal decision that can significantly influence your legal career. The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious law schools, many of which offer specialised programs in corporate law tailored to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed in this field. Whether you are looking at undergraduate degrees or postgraduate options like an LLM, selecting a university with a strong academic reputation, excellent faculty, and connections to the legal industry is essential for your future success.
