How To Become A Family Lawyer In Canterbury

Becoming a family lawyer is an admirable decision that can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. This field offers not only intellectual stimulation but also the chance to make a positive difference in the lives of others. As a family law solicitor, you will play a critical role in guiding your clients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives by providing legal advice, emotional support, and ethical guidance.

By leveraging your knowledge and expertise, you can help your clients make informed decisions and reach resolutions that align with their best interests. No career is without its challenges, but as a family law lawyer, you have the opportunity to make a real difference and help families navigate complex legal situations with compassion and professionalism.

But how do you get from there to here?

Becoming a family lawyer is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a path worth taking for those with a passion for helping families in need. It requires hard work, devotion, and dedication, as Stowe Family Law's guide to becoming a family lawyer in Canterbury highlights.

Family law cases can be complex and intricate; therefore, a family lawyer must be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate clients through their troubles. Despite the challenges, the sense of gratification derived from making a difference in people's lives is unparalleled. With perseverance and determination, family lawyers can cultivate fruitful partnerships with clients and provide them with the superior services they deserve.

Why Choose Canterbury?

Canterbury, UK is a bustling city rich with history and culture. From the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the charming streets lined with unique shops and restaurants, there is always something to explore. Beyond its picturesque exterior, Canterbury offers an excellent quality of life thanks to its strong sense of community and the wide range of amenities available. With a vibrant arts scene, ample green spaces, and top-notch schools and healthcare, there is no shortage of reasons to call Canterbury home. Whether you are looking for a dynamic urban lifestyle or a quieter suburban existence, Canterbury has something to offer for every taste and preference.

Why Choose Canterbury For a Career in Family Law?

Canterbury is a hub for family law, and for good reason. Located in the heart of Kent, this city offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in this area of law. With a strong network of family law firms and experienced professionals in the field, Canterbury provides the ideal environment for developing your skills and expertise in family law. Not only that, but the city boasts a rich history and a thriving community that make it an attractive place to live and work. So if you're looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career in family law, Canterbury should be at the top of your list. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this vibrant city has everything you need to succeed.

Why Choose Family Law as a Career?

If you're passionate about helping others and have a strong interest in the legal system, a career in family law may be the right path for you. Family law is a demanding yet rewarding field that offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in people's lives. As a family lawyer, you'll represent clients during some of their most challenging times, including divorce, child custody disputes, and domestic abuse cases.

You'll guide clients through the legal system, advocate for their rights, and help them find solutions that support their well-being and the best interests of their families. It's a career that requires empathy, creativity, and a commitment to justice. If you're willing to put in the hard work, family law can be a fulfilling and satisfying career choice.

Qualifications needed to become a Family Lawyer in Canterbury

Educational

For those aspiring to become lawyers, the journey towards this career path has become more flexible over the years. While GCSEs and A-Levels or equivalent qualifications remain basic prerequisites, there are now several educational pathways to choose from. One of these alternatives is the Legal Apprenticeship program, offered by some law firms. This option is specifically designed for individuals who have completed their A-Levels but may not have finished their degree. It provides them with an opportunity to gain practical experience and earn a qualification while studying. With the availability of various educational routes, becoming a lawyer is now more accessible to a wider range of people.

A career in law requires dedication and hard work, and there are multiple pathways to success. For those interested in becoming Chartered Legal Executive lawyers, a minimum of five years of education and practical experience is required. Another option is to earn a bachelor's degree, attain certified qualifications, and undergo training. This pathway requires simultaneous studying and practical experience and typically takes around six years to qualify. Whichever route is chosen, depth of knowledge and relevant practical experience are highly valued in the legal industry. Through tenacity and commitment, those who embark on any of these paths can achieve success in this rewarding and challenging field.

Professional

The Solicitors Regulation Authority has recently approved a new pathway for prospective solicitors to achieve their goal within five years, with the exception of certain degree requirements. This exciting development involves the completion of a bachelor's degree in any field, two years of continuous work experience, and completing both phases of the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations. This offers greater flexibility for those considering a career in law, as it allows them to build work experience in their desired field while still meeting the requirements to become a practicing solicitor. It's an excellent step towards ensuring greater accessibility and diversity within the legal profession, as well as providing aspiring solicitors with a more streamlined path towards achieving their career goals.

The legal profession is known for its rigid educational requirements, but a new approach has been introduced that promises to shake things up. The SRA's Character and Suitability requirements must now be met, which means that the need for GDL, LPC, and PSC courses has been eliminated. Instead, two standard tests will be used to measure a candidate's standards and competencies. It's an innovative way of assessing prospective lawyers, and there's a lot of anticipation around how it will shape the future of the legal profession. As this new methodology takes effect, we can expect to see some exciting changes in the industry.

Local Universities and Law Courses near Canterbury

London Metropolitan University

“The LLB (Hons) is a degree that enables you to explore a diverse range of optional subjects while meeting the Qualifying Law Degree requirements for training as a solicitor or barrister.”

Throughout your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to gain relevant experience while studying through legal work placements, mooting, and pro bono opportunities. You'll also be eligible to join the Law Mentoring Programme, where you'll be paired with postgraduate London Met mentors in order to obtain support in relation to personal and professional development, selecting career paths, acquiring work experience and commercial awareness, and writing CVs and cover letters.

University Of Kent

“Kent Law School brings the study of law to life and prepares you for a successful career in law”

“Our LLB in Law develops your critical and analytical skills, enables you to think about the role of law in society, and provides hands-on experience through opportunities to work on real cases in our Law Clinic. A law degree from Kent prepares you for a career in law and opens doors to many other professions.”

Family Law Work Experience in Canterbury

When it comes to family law, experience is key for potential employers. Being able to showcase your understanding of the field through work experience at a family law firm demonstrates your commitment to and knowledge of the challenges, rewards, and complexities of practising family law. Participating in university essay contests, shadowing a family lawyer during a small pupillage, or marshalling for a judge during a family court hearing are all valuable opportunities to gain insight into the workings of the industry and show potential employers your passion for family law. By taking advantage of these experiences, you can stand out from other applicants and position yourself as a knowledgeable and dedicated candidate.

Expected Salary for a Family Lawyer in Canterbury

According to Indeed data, the average salary for a Family Lawyer in the UK is £41,796 per year, though this will vary depending on location and the business you work for.

Wages for recently trained solicitors vary across the UK and can range from £26,000 to £55,000, with London City businesses paying the highest average salary.

In Canterbury, the average salary for a Family Law Lawyer is £45,851 (average amount).

Workers in the legal profession earn some of the best wages in the country, with many businesses offering significant salary and bonuses regardless of specialisation.

What Cases You May Work on

Prenuptial and Postnuptial agreements

Child maintenance orders

Divorce cases

Child custody cases

Domestic violence cases

Divorce settlements

Financial settlements

Civil partnership dissolution

Finding a Speciality in Family Law

Family law encompasses a broad range of legal issues that arise within families, such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence. As a practitioner in this area, one can enjoy a rewarding career that helps clients navigate through the toughest and most emotional times in their lives. However, choosing a specific area of focus is crucial, given the different types of cases that may come across one's desk. 

Expertise in a particular subfield can help establish a trusted reputation and deepen one's knowledge and understanding of family law. As a lawyer gains experience, honing their skills in a specific area can make them a valuable resource to their clients, enabling them to provide the best possible legal representation and advice for their individual needs.

Visiting Stowe Family Law divorce lawyers Canterbury

Contact us

Phone: 0122 790 1300

Email: [email protected]

You can call us from 8:30am – 7pm, Monday to Friday and 9am – 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Please note that all in-office appointments are by pre-arrangement only.

Office address

Fruitworks Coworking
1-2 Jewry Lane
Canterbury
CT1 2NP

Our team of family solicitors in Canterbury are centrally-based, located in Fruitworks Coworking on 1-2 Jewry Lane (CT1 2NP). The office is a 10-minute walk from Canterbury West train station and a 9-minute walk from Canterbury East train station. For those travelling by car, please note there is no on-street parking directly outside the office. The nearest car park is Whitefriars Car park, just a 4-minute walk away.