Qualifying as a Solicitor / Criminal Record / Indentures

Right Turn Clyde

Hi. I'm thinking about trying to qualify as a solicitor. I have one criminal conviction. I've spoken to the Law Society and they told me that I'm not automatically barred from qualifying. So that's the first hurdle out of the way.

I realise that finding a training contract is going to be the hard part. And I had assumed that it would be doubly hard for me because I'd have to disclose my conviction as part of the Indentures of Apprenticeship Deed. However, I've just downloaded a sample Deed from the Law Society's website and there is no mention of criminal convictions, 'sound character', etc. So I'm just wondering if this is typical of everyone else's experience? Or are there variations of the Deed that require you to disclose any convictions? Or did your training solicitor ask you disclose any convictions at any other stage?

I assume my employer will find out at some stage. But how and when? I'm not trying to hide anything, and I will not lie about my circumstances. But if I'm not asked I won't tell. I just don't want to make an already arduous process even harder.

I'd appreciate your advice on this matter. There's a few older threads about this issue but they don't really address my question. And no snarky replies please. I made a mistake nearly a decade ago and I've moved on from it. Thanks.

Dandelion6

The Indentures are a contract between yourself, your training solicitor and the Law Society regarding your training period. They're not a Personal History of the Trainee. You aren't asked to disclose anything on them.