Bridge Group report on the new Solicitors Qualification Examination (SQE)

The report finds that a major problem with the “current, fragmented system” is a lack of dependable, comparable data. Standardised data from the SQE could help the sector better understand diversity issues and inform potential solutions. This data could also help both employers and aspiring solicitors make choices.

Law is one of a few professions where to qualify people must borrow large amounts of money at significant personal risk, with many shut out by the high cost of training. The report says the SQE could potentially increase the range and choice of legal training, while also driving down the costs through competitive pressures.

The report also challenges the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to focus on gathering and analysing data - including on protected characteristics and socio-economic background - to enable it to review and evaluate the SQE’s impact. The SRA can then take informed decisions around the SQE’s continued development. It recommends it should summarise its approach to data and evaluation so stakeholders know what will be published and when.

You can read the full report here.