Licensed conveyancer : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, a degree, HND or foundation degree in one of the following subjects may increase your chances:

• law/legal studies;
• accounting/finance;
• business/management;
• land/estate/property management;
• planning;
• surveying.

Non-graduate entry is possible as the minimum entry requirements are four GCSE passes, including English, and personal qualities and skills are often more important than the subjects you have studied. However, many licensed conveyancers are also qualified solicitors or legal executives.

You may find it useful to gain some work experience at a firm of solicitors, property developers, a building society or a bank. Previous experience, particularly as a legal secretary or legal executive, can be advantageous.

You will need to show evidence of the following:

• the ability to advise and negotiate effectively;
• the ability to understand and explain legal technicalities;
• good report-writing skills;
• an interest in property law;
• the ability to work meticulously and accurately within a professional code of conduct;
• problem-solving skills;
• an interest in research;
• numeracy;
• discretion and respect for client confidentiality;
• the ability to work under pressure;
• basic IT skills.

If you have previously been in financial difficulties or in conflict with the law, you may be disqualified from entry.

The availability of trainee positions varies according to the state of the housing market. Many companies have experienced a downturn following the credit crunch. It may be worth your while to apply speculatively to smaller companies. For useful advice about getting into the profession, go to Legal Recruitment .

To become a qualified conveyancer in Scotland you need either a law degree or a diploma/certificate in legal studies from a Scottish university or approved institution. Contact the Law Society of Scotland for more details about qualifying.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.