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As a former paralegal and now trainee solicitor, i think it's DANGEROUS to allow paralegals to qualify. Before commencing my Training contract, i "paralegalled" for 2 years and, during that time, I NEVER really got exposed to true training contract tasks. Because i have experienced both, i can honestly say that there is MAJOR difference between being a paralegal and a trainee solicitor. I really hope this plan does not go ahead - it runs a danger of bringing the legal profession to a point of chaos. There are enough instances of bad solicitors (who have completed training contracts) - there have been episodes on BBC Watchdog about it even.. the profession must remain controlled and impose high expectation on all trainee solicitors. This is the only way to maintain some respect from the public. Perhaps run a referendum among qualified /seniour lawyers? How many do you think will want a paralegal who became a solicitor,as if by magic, to handle their work? I doubt that many would.. And this is coming from a former paralegal..