Many undergraduates become interested in law before they are entirely sure what a legal career actually involves. Some study law already, while others are completing non-law degrees and wondering whether the legal profession could be the right fit.
This guide is written for undergraduates interested in law, whether you are studying law or another subject, and want clear, realistic insight into what to focus on now — without pressure or confusion.
You Do Not Need to Decide Everything Yet
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you must have a fixed legal career plan from first year.
In reality, many solicitors:
- Changed their minds during university
- Explored different practice areas after graduating
- Took non-linear routes into the profession
Interest in law develops over time. What matters at undergraduate level is exploration and informed curiosity, not certainty.
What Studying or Working in Law Actually Involves
Law is not just about knowing rules and cases.
In practice, legal work involves:
- Problem-solving
- Research and analysis
- Communication with clients and colleagues
- Managing deadlines and competing priorities
- Understanding commercial and personal contexts
Exposure to these realities early helps you decide whether law aligns with your strengths and interests.
Skills Undergraduates Should Focus On
If you are interested in law, there are key skills you can start developing now:
- Written communication – clear, structured writing matters
- Critical thinking – analysing arguments and evidence
- Attention to detail – accuracy is essential in legal work
- Time management – balancing multiple deadlines
- Professional communication – emails, teamwork, and confidence
These skills can be developed through any degree, not just law.
Law vs Non-Law Degree: Does It Matter?
Both law and non-law graduates qualify as solicitors in England and Wales.
What matters more than your degree subject is:
- Your motivation for law
- The skills you develop
- Your understanding of the profession
Non-law undergraduates often bring valuable perspectives from subjects such as politics, economics, STEM, humanities, and social sciences.
Gaining Exposure to Law as an Undergraduate
You do not need formal legal work experience immediately.
Ways to explore law include:
- Attending law firm open days
- Joining university law societies
- Listening to legal podcasts and webinars
- Reading legal careers content and firm insights
- Virtual legal work experience programmes
Early exposure helps you make informed decisions later.
When Should Undergraduates Start Thinking About Applications?
There is no single timeline.
As a general guide:
- First year: explore and build skills
- Second year: gain experience and attend events
- Final year: refine applications and career direction
Progression matters more than speed.
Common Worries Undergraduates Have
- “Everyone else is ahead of me”
- “I do not have legal experience yet”
- “I am not sure which area of law I like”
These worries are extremely common — and rarely accurate.
Focus on your own development rather than comparison.
Final Thoughts
Being interested in law as an undergraduate is not about having all the answers — it is about asking the right questions.
If you focus on building transferable skills, gaining exposure, and reflecting on what you enjoy, you will be well placed to make confident decisions about a legal career when the time comes.
This article forms part of TheLawyerFiles Undergraduate Series, supporting students interested in law with practical, UK-focused guidance.
