A solicitors ''qualifications''

I am confused at the various titles used by solicitors, e.g. ''Associate''. What exactly does a solicitor need in regards of qualifications or experience to be able to use the term ''solicitor''?

In particular what is a ''solicitors clerk''?

A solicitor''s clerk is a non-solicitor. They can run their own case load but under direct supervision from a solicitor.

The hierarchy of solicitors is as follows:

Trainee Solicitor (a person in the middle of their 2 year training contract)
Assistant Solicitor (a solicitor employed by a firm)
Associate Solicitor (a solicitor employed by a firm who is looking to upgrade to a partner)
Salaried partner (a solicitor who takes decisions in the future of the business but takes a wage as do other employees)
Equity Partner (a solicitor who is also an owner of the business)

Since the advent of Limited Liability Partnerships the lines are blurred somewhat as you can now have accountants and other professionals who can be co-owners too and are frequently described as ''partners'' or ''members''.

There are also Fellows of the Institute of Legal Executives (F.Ilex) who can be partners too.

A recently qualified solicitor can set up their own business and be the sole equity partner. They might be great or they might not. Equally a solicitor who is happy to be an employee and has been so for 30 years might be excellent and reasonably priced.

Titles aren''t indicative of greatness. Sir Jimmy Saville for instance...

Charles

That''s interesting, how is that different to being a solicitors secretary?

And should a ''Solicitors Clerk'' be the person attending court with their client during a first hearing?

If you liken a solicitors clerk to a plumber and the secretary as the plumber''s mate - that would be the difference. One does the job and the other helps out with the admin/coffee making.

Should a solicitor''s clerk attend court? Absolutely. Not all lawyers have qualifications but that does not mean they are unfit to do the work.

As I say, titles are not the whole story. A partner in a firm where s/he is a sole trader might want to be their own master or they might not be able to find anyone to go into partnership with them...

Charles

Thanks, thats helpful.