In our latest blog we speak to two newly qualified solicitors who took the CILEX route to qualification.
What is CILEX?
CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) offers a flexible route into law, allowing individuals to qualify through practical experience and targeted study, often while working full-time. It’s an increasingly popular alternative to the traditional training contract, especially for those who want to specialise early or balance work and study.
Meet our newly qualified solicitors
Libby Birt – Wills and Probate Team, Loughborough
Libby completed her Law with Criminology degree at Sheffield Hallam University in 2018, followed by her Legal Practice Course (LPC) part-time at the University of Sheffield, graduating in 2020. She joined Rothera Bray as a Will writer in April 2023 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2025.
Laura Runcak – Conveyancing Team, Derby and Beeston
Laura graduated with a law degree from the University of Derby in 2021, completed her LPC while working as a Legal Assistant in 2022, and finished her Master of Laws in 2023. She joined Rothera Bray as a conveyancing paralegal in May 2023. Like Libby, she also qualified as a solicitor in September 2025.
What first inspired you to pursue a legal career?
Libby: I wanted a career that allowed me to work closely with people, offered variety, and kept me intellectually engaged -something where no two days were ever the same.
Laura: My journey into law was inspired by my desire to help people, especially during important times in their lives. Whether it’s buying a home, resolving a dispute, or planning for the future, I wanted a career where I could offer support, guidance, and reassurance when it matters most.
Why did you choose the CILEX route?
Libby: I knew early on that I wanted to qualify in Private Client (Wills and Probate), so I wasn’t particularly concerned about rotating through different areas via a traditional training contract. The CILEX route allowed me to stay in my current role, deepen my expertise, and build my portfolio straight away. It was a more direct path and meant I could progress more quickly.
Laura: Securing a traditional training contract was incredibly challenging given the legal market and business demands at the time. I had already completed my law degree and LPC and gained substantial experience as a paralegal. Qualifying first as a chartered legal executive and then cross-qualifying as a solicitor through CILEX allowed me to achieve my goal without needing a training contract.
What motivated you to cross-qualify as a solicitor?
Libby: Although I was proud to qualify as a chartered legal executive, my long-term goal had always been to become a solicitor. Having already completed my law degree and LPC, I wanted to finish what I had originally set out to achieve.
Laura: Chartered legal executives and solicitors hold the same legal standing, but becoming a solicitor was always my goal. Since I had already completed the LPC, it felt like the final step in fulfilling the ambition I’d had since university.
How did you find the cross-qualification process? What did it involve and how long did it take?
Libby: It was the easiest part! I applied to the SRA and submitted my certificates for the LPC, PSC, and CILEX. My application was approved within two weeks.
Laura: It was very straightforward. Once I received my certificate of good standing from CILEX and was admitted as a Fellow, I submitted my law degree, LPC, Professional Skills Course certificate, and confirmation from CILEX to the SRA. I was admitted as a solicitor within two weeks. From starting my CILEX portfolio to qualifying, the whole process took just over a year.
What advice would you give to someone considering the CILEX route or thinking about cross-qualifying?
Libby: If you’re working in the area you want to qualify in, just do it. It’s quick and straightforward, with no exams (if you’ve done the LPC) and no stress.
Laura: Do it! There are many valid routes to qualification now, and the traditional training contract isn’t the only option. But do your research -every pathway involves many hours of hard work.
How has your journey shaped your approach to legal practice?
Libby: It’s really highlighted to me that there’s no longer just one ‘right way’ to become a solicitor. The profession is shifting – firms are increasingly recognising that there are multiple routes to qualification. Talent and potential don’t always follow a traditional path.
Laura: It’s opened my eyes to how much the legal profession is changing. It’s shown me that the law is always evolving, and there are now many ways to qualify, not just the traditional route taught at law school.
How did it feel to finally qualify as a solicitor? What does this milestone mean to you personally and professionally?
Libby: Incredibly rewarding. It was the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance and personal growth. I started my law degree ten years ago and faced some difficult personal challenges along the way. Qualifying despite everything makes this achievement even more meaningful. Professionally, it feels like the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
Laura: It felt amazing. It’s been my dream since university, and reaching this milestone made all the late nights and tough times worth it. Personally, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. Professionally, I know the hard work doesn’t stop here and I’m excited to keep learning and growing.
What are your goals or aspirations now that you’ve qualified?
Libby: My focus is on building my knowledge and experience in private client work so I can become the best solicitor I can be. I do aspire to become an associate in the future, but right now I’m focused on adding real value to the team.
Laura: I want to continue building my confidence and expertise in practice, and most importantly, enjoy the journey as it’s only just begun.
At Rothera Bray, we support various paths into a career in law, from apprenticeships and CILEX to the traditional degree and LPC/SQE. We’re committed to helping our people achieve their ambitions, whatever their route.
Interested in building your legal career with us? Explore opportunities on our careers page and discover how we can support your journey.
