The Law Society of Ireland is introducing a new solicitor apprenticeship programme this week, marking one of the most significant changes to solicitor training and access to the profession in many decades.
School leavers will now be able to train to become a solicitor without a third-level degree, creating an alternative to the traditional graduate-led route.
Designed to broaden access to the profession, the earn-while-you-learn programme offers another access route for would-be solicitors.
It will be fully accredited by the Law Society and of equal standing to existing qualification pathways.
The apprenticeship programme was developed in response to the Law Society’s strategy to expand access to the profession.
This commitment is already reflected in a range of initiatives, including hybrid training models that reduce the need for trainees to attend courses in person, as well as scholarships and grants designed to remove financial barriers to legal education.
President of the Law Society, Rosemarie Loftus, said: “As leaders in legal education, we are delighted to offer an alternative, vocational route into a legal career, opening up opportunities for aspiring solicitors from all backgrounds and communities across Ireland.
“Combining high-quality education with paid, practical workplace experience will enable apprentices to develop the knowledge and skills to excel in their legal careers from day one.
“This Professional Solicitor Apprenticeship will help develop the next generation of solicitors while supporting law firms across Ireland to attract and retain talented people in their local communities.”
Until now, legal executives and legal clerks were required to have at least five years’ experience before they could pursue qualification as a solicitor.
The new programme allows them to begin that process earlier in their careers.
Expressions of interest open this September, with the first cohort of apprentices expected to commence in September 2027.
This new programme will also support legal firms experiencing recruitment and retention challenges, particularly in rural areas.