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Well, here you all are showing the same colours as 25 years ago. I had a non law degree and could not afford to do the 2 year conversion course. So I worked full time. And studied part time: first four years to do the Ilex membership exams; 2 years to do the diploma exams (to be exempt from LLB); as I had already done 5 years fee earning, I was admitted as a F.Ilex.

Found myself in front of D J Samuels in the Mayors court on an application to come off record. He refused to accept my affidavit on the basis that, as there were partners in my firm, one of them should have provided one. (He would not have done this were I a Solicitor.). So I decided to qualify as a solicitor. My boss, the Senior partner, said, “it won’t make you a better lawyer”. I said, “but I will have more status” and he agreed. So 2 more years part time study and exemption from a training contract. (Gosh how lucky you are! they all cried.). So that’s 8 years with no holiday and full time work throughout.

I was very fortunate to have a supportive firm, but I do not want to hear from those who say the F.Ilex qualification is somehow demeaning.

It is true that it may be a suitable route for some people who are not academically inclined but that does not make them poor lawyers. I have met many Legal Executives whose specialised skills are superior to Solicitors’.

It is also true that some firms allow (mainly women) to qualify but pay them diddly squat.

A bit less sniping please. It is a hard won qualification open to all regardless of income.

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