Returning to Law After a Career Break
Welcome back to the world of law! If you’re considering a return to the legal profession after some time away, you’ve already taken a significant first step. Whether your break was for family, personal reasons, or to explore other interests, your unique experiences have likely equipped you with valuable perspectives that can enrich your legal practice.
We understand that returning to law can feel daunting – the legal landscape evolves rapidly, and you may be wondering how to bridge the gap. But you’re not alone in this journey. Many have successfully navigated this path, and this guide aims to provide you with the insights, strategies, and resources to help you do the same. From assessing your current situation and refreshing your knowledge to rebuilding your network and exploring new career paths, we’ll walk you through the key steps of your return.
So, take a deep breath, and let’s begin this journey together.
1. Assess Your Current Situation
Before returning to law, it’s crucial to evaluate your skills, experiences, and career goals.
The Law Society offers a comprehensive skills assessment tool that can help in this process.
- Technical legal skills you’ve retained
Example: Knowledge of contract law, experience in drafting legal documents, understanding of court procedures - Soft skills developed during your career break
Example: Time management from balancing family responsibilities, negotiation skills from volunteer work, adaptability from navigating a career change - Areas where you may need further development
Example: Familiarity with recent case law, proficiency in new legal software, knowledge of regulatory changes in your practice area - Your current career goals and how they align with the legal profession
Example: Desire for work-life balance leading to interest in part-time or flexible legal roles, passion for a specific cause inspiring a move to non-profit legal work
Remember, your career break may have equipped you with unique perspectives and skills that are valuable in the legal field. Take time to reflect on how your experiences can contribute to your future legal career.
2. Refresh Your Legal Knowledge
Staying informed about legal developments is crucial for a successful return to law. Here are some effective ways to update your knowledge:
Subscribe to legal news sources:
The Law Society Gazette
Legal Futures
The Lawyer
These can you keep you updated of any important changes or news in the legal industry
Engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
The Law Society’s Learning and Development platform offers a range of courses and webinars. These not only update your legal knowledge but also help you earn necessary CPD points.
Consider refresher courses
Institutions like the University of Law and BPP University offer programmes designed for lawyers returning to practice. These can provide structured learning to bridge any knowledge gaps.
Familiarise yourself with legal technology
Modern legal practice relies heavily on technology. Explore case management systems, legal research tools, and document automation software. Many offer free trials or training resources.
3. Rebuild Your Professional Network
Networking is crucial in the legal profession. Here’s how to rebuild and expand your professional connections:
Reconnect With Former Colleagues And Classmates
Use LinkedIn to reach out and update your connections on your current situation and career goals. Reach out to people you used to work with and encourage positive interactions
Join Professional Organisations
The Law Society, The Bar Council, Practice-specific groups (e.g., Employment Lawyers Association or The Conveyancing Association) These organisations often have special interest groups for lawyers returning to work, providing both support and networking opportunities. A quick google search will get you on your way.
Attend Legal Conferences And Seminars
Events like those organised by Legal Futures Conferences can help you stay updated on industry trends and make new connections.
Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just finding job opportunities. Be open about your situation – many legal professionals are supportive of colleagues returning to the profession.
4. Update Your CV and Online Presence
Your CV and online presence should reflect both your past legal experience and the skills gained during your career break.
Take a look at our blog detailing how you can make your CV really standout and use our free templates to get you started
CV tips:
LinkedIn profile:
Consider creating a concise, professional bio for use on company websites or professional directories.
If you’re interested in showcasing your expertise, consider starting a legal blog or contributing articles
to legal publications.
5. Addressing the Career Gap
When discussing your career break:
Be honest about the reason for your break
Highlight relevant experiences or skills gained during your time away
Emphasise your enthusiasm for returning to law and your commitment to your career
Be prepared to discuss:
How you’ve stayed current with legal developments
Your plan for quickly getting up to speed in your practice area
Your commitment to long-term career development
6. Embracing Flexible Working Options
Many law firms now offer flexible working arrangements.
Consider options such as:
When negotiating flexible arrangements:
The Law Society’s Flexible Working Protocol provides guidance on this topic.
8. Applying for a New Practice Certificate
If you’ve been out of practice for a while, you’ll need to apply for a new practising
certificate from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) before returning to law.
Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility:
– You must be a solicitor of England and Wales
– You need to meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements
Professional indemnity insurance:
– You’ll need to have appropriate professional indemnity insurance in place before you can practise
– The SRA have a list available here
Continuing Professional Development (CPD):
– While there’s no set number of CPD hours required, you must declare that you’ve completed appropriate CPD to remain competent to practise
Returning to practice after a long break:
– If you’ve been out of practice for a significant period, the SRA may require you to complete additional steps or training before issuing your certificate
Remember to start this process well in advance of your planned return date, as it can take several weeks for your application to be processed.
For the most up-to-date information and to start your application, visit the SRA’s Practising Certificate Renewal page
Conclusion
Returning to law after a career break is a journey that requires preparation, patience, and perseverance. Remember that your unique experiences and perspective can be valuable assets in your legal career. Embrace the opportunity to redefine your professional path and contribute to the ever-evolving legal landscape.
By following these tips and utilising the resources available, you can successfully navigate your return to the legal profession.
Welcome back to the world of law!
Returning to Law After a Career Break
