World Mental Health Day is a time to reflect on the growing awareness of mental health challenges in various industries. While discussions around mental health are broadening, the legal profession in the UK, particularly for those aspiring to enter the profession, can all too often be a high-stress environment that is slow to change. In this article, we look specifically at the SQE and the impact this could potentially have on aspiring solicitors' mental health.
The solicitor profession
It’s fair to say that the legal sector and by extension, solicitors face quite a bit of stress in high-pressure legal roles, from handling demanding caseloads, tight deadlines, and complex legal issues to the notoriously long working hours. “The average legal professional earns much more for their firm by working a heavier caseload and putting in more billable hours. On average, legal professionals are working over 25% more cases compared to 2016 and recording 35% more billable hours.” found the 2023 Legal Trends report by Clio. Demonstrating that overall workload and expectations have increased over the years.
Change is coming about, and many firms are putting more of a focus on work-life balance and flexible working, supported by the current legislative changes; however, the billable hour still remains an issue at the foundation of our system.
Aspiring solicitors' struggles: Barriers to entering the legal sector
It’s no secret that the path to qualifying is a difficult one. The SQE was introduced in 2021 to replace the LPC route and was intended to make the solicitor profession more accessible. The reality for many law students is that the SQE may have removed some challenges (like the dependency on training contracts) yet introduced a new set of challenges, namely the SQE exams.
The SQE exams are divided into two parts: SQE1, which focuses on solicitors legal knowledge (SLK), and SQE2, which assesses solicitors legal skills (SLS). The pass rate for SQE1 generally sits quite low at around 50-55% of candidates passing. The latest SQE1 sitting which took place in July 2024, had a pass rate of just 44%, highlighting the immense difficulty of the exam. This low pass rate reflects the intense preparation required and the pressure that candidates face to succeed which can generate much anxiety. Particularly after some candidates earlier this year were reported to have lost training contract offers after failing the SQE1 exam.
The structure of the SQE exams is something we're seeing contribute to the worries of our students, two five-hour long exams in test centres for SQE1 require an awful lot of stamina, resilience and confidence. This demanding format may also be contributing to the differentials we are seeing for some demographic groups performing well.
In addition to law students worrying about the above, there are the ongoing pressures of academic achievement, financial burdens, and career uncertainty. The weight of these pressures is evident in rising reports of mental health issues among law students and trainees.
What can aspiring solicitors do to help stay well and protect their mental health?
So, the million-dollar question. What can aspiring solicitors do to protect their mental health? Whilst the responsibility to improve the SQE journey and improve accessibility into the legal sector falls predominantly on the SRA, training providers and law firms, we think that there are some ways in which aspiring solicitors can look after their wellbeing.
Firstly, learning more about the SQE exams. Underst the weight of the SQE, the standard and nature of the exams and being aware of its mental toll- even from just the sheer volume of learning involved. Then you can start to prepare accordingly across all aspects of your life. Secondly, don’t rush into it and look for the first opportunity to take the exams, it's a marathon, not a sprint.
At The College of Legal Practice, our support for aspiring solicitors starts before they’re even studying with us, with our student recruitment team advising prospective students on the right intensity for them. For example, we highly recommend studying a longer length course, to give yourself more time to prepare for the SQE and reduce the stress that can be caused by cramming in 13 different practice areas full-time. In addition to this, we provide some of the highest levels of personal support to students, guidance on areas for students to improve on and an SQE-ready review to inform how prepared they are for the assessments, allowing students to choose to sit the exams at a later date should they wish. You can explore our support for students here and find plenty of helpful guidance and resources.
Helpful resources and tips for SQE students
For law students and aspiring solicitors planning to sit the SQE, it is essential to prioritise your wellbeing, and prepare to protect your mental health along your journey. We’ve put together some helpful resources and tips to help manage stress and maintain well-being:
- Research well before committing to the SQE and an SQE preparation provider
Now that you know the journey is tough, it’s important to plan, plan plan. Figure out your timeline, your capacity and the necessary support you need for your SQE journey. Look into the support services your potential SQE provider gives, before committing to prepare with them. Is it the right level of personal support for you? Read how Sajida, one of our supervisors described the personal support provided at the College.
- Prepare for the SQE early
This seems obvious or perhaps even insignificant, however this is possibly the most effective tip we could give. Given the difficulty of the SQE, early preparation is key. We encourage this by providing a pre-course study pack for those who apply before the course start date. You can also prepare your family, colleagues and friends for this journey with you and work out your study and work schedule before you start.
- Five tips to take care of your mental health while preparing for the SQE
Planning your SQE journey? Taking care of your mental health isn't just in the preparation before you commit to an SQE prep provider. Here are five key tips on taking care of your mental health whilst on your SQE preparation journey.
- Time management
Managing your time effectively can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. Use tools like task management apps to break down your study schedule and prepare for exams in manageable steps. Use your course calendar to integrate with your work and personal calendars so you can see your assessment deadlines well in advance and plan accordingly.
- Talk to peers and mentors
Sharing your struggles with peers, mentors, or legal professionals can provide reassurance and guidance. Sometimes, talking about your concerns can offer new perspectives and solutions. Find other students on your courses to share your experiences with, through WhatsApp groups, informal study sessions and group workshops and supervisions.
- Exercise and mindfulness
Regular physical activity and mindfulness practices can help manage stress and improve mental health. Consider setting aside time for activities like yoga, meditation, or even a daily walk to clear your mind. Our students have access to free resources, recipes, and online videos to support their mental and physical wellbeing.
- 5 wellbeing tips for receiving exam results
Already sat your exam and have pre-result nerves or worried about how you performed? Read our five key tips on how to maintain your mental health and wellbeing whilst receiving your results (yep we've got tips for every stage of the journey!).
Other Resources
- LawCare
LawCare is a mental health charity that provides support and advice to anyone in the legal community. They offer a free, confidential helpline, peer support, and other resources.
- The Solicitors' Charity
This charity offers financial support and mental health assistance to solicitors facing difficulties. It provides counselling services and financial aid in times of hardship.
- University support services
If you’re still at an undergraduate level, many universities have dedicated mental health services for students. If you are struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to your university’s student support services.
We hope you find these resources and tips beneficial. If you're ready to explore the SQE and start your journey, explore the SQE via the link below.