Law Society Diplomas

johnfás

Does anybody know if you have to be a qualified professional to do the Law Society Diplomas? Would they be of benefit to somebody who has not yet qualified?

In essence, if one were to be able to persuade the firm that they hold a promise of a job with to part fund one of these diplomas while they wait to commence as a trainee, would this be both possible and beneficial?

Arsenal1986

I was in exactly same position as you. I have a traineeship thats not starting until April 2011 and as was going to be working here until Xmas anyway to save to go travelling b4 I start, so I decided to do a diploma as wanted to do something that would stand to me later in my career during that time.

The firm I'm starting with didn't pay for it but I got 40% of the course fees because I was starting with that firm - as it was a partner with Law Society in providing it.

It started in April, its in International Financial Services Law and it is jointly from UCD and the Law Society. So far its been excellent albeit quiet tough. The calibre of the speakers has been excellent, Partners from Allen and Overy, Professors from the London School of Economics and UCL, Barristers from the City of London involved in Lehmans Brothers litigation etc.

I think there is about 15 in the course - wide mix of ppl Barristers, some Financcial service (ie non law) ppl and several trainees. I am currently working in a quasi legal role but nothing particularly relevant to the course and was accepted to it.

Examination is by way of term essay and end of term exam.

johnfás

Cheers Arsenal, that is a help. I'm looking at things to do in September so this is a possibility.