Legal writing competitions give a student the two things a law degree rarely provides: a real deadline and a judge. Writing to a brief and being marked against other entrants exposes weaknesses no essay grade shows, and a placing is concrete evidence on an application. They also put your name in front of the firms and chambers that sponsor them.

The qualification is the gate: 87.6% of graduates in England were employed in 2024, against 68.0% of non-graduates. — DfE, Graduate labour market statistics, 2024

Legal writing competitions are a pivotal aspect of legal education, offering numerous benefits to law students. These competitions not only hone writing skills but also provide networking opportunities, recognition, and practical experience in legal practice. This blog post delves into why participation in these competitions is crucial for aspiring lawyers.

What Are the Benefits of Legal Writing Competitions?

How Do You Develop Legal Writing Skills?

- Practice Opportunities: Competitions offer a platform for students to practice drafting various legal documents such as briefs and memos.

- Skill Enhancement: Through rigorous writing tasks, students enhance their ability to articulate complex legal arguments clearly and persuasively.

How Do You Build a Professional Network?

- Connection with Legal Professionals: Competitions often involve interactions with judges, lawyers, and scholars, providing a unique networking opportunity.

- Career Opportunities: Networking can lead to internships and job offers, facilitating a smoother transition into the legal profession.

How Do You Gain Recognition?

- Stand Out in the Job Market: Achieving success in competitions can distinguish a law student from peers, providing a competitive edge in job applications.

- Enhance Resume: Winning or ranking in these competitions serves as a testament to a student's legal writing prowess and dedication.

How Do You Prepare for Legal Practice?

- Real Case Experience: Many competitions simulate real-world legal scenarios that require practical solutions, preparing students for actual legal challenges.

- Commitment to Excellence: Success in these competitions demonstrates a commitment to high standards in legal writing, a crucial attribute sought by employers.

How Do You Improve Personal and Professional Growth?

- Feedback on Writing: Participants receive critiques from experienced professionals, offering insights into improving their legal writing.

- Research Skills: Competitions often require thorough legal research, fostering advanced research skills among participants.

What should you do next?

Legal writing competitions are more than just contests; they are integral to the professional development of law students. By providing opportunities to develop writing skills, build professional networks, gain recognition, and prepare for real-world legal practice, these competitions play a crucial role in the formation of competent, skilled lawyers. If you are a law student, engaging in these competitions could significantly impact your career trajectory and contribute positively to your growth in the legal field.

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about your own route in?

Qualifying as a solicitor changed with the SQE, and the requirements, exemptions and costs are set by the regulators rather than by any guide. Timelines and fees move. Check the current position with the SRA or the Bar Council before making a decision.

The Bar has its own vocabulary, and its own body defines it:

“Pupillage is the work-based stage — like a paid apprenticeship — which is split into your ‘first six’ and ‘second six’, your non-practising and your practising period.” — Bar Council, Becoming a barrister

Where can you check this at source?

Routes into law are set by the regulators, and the qualifying rules changed with the SQE. Check the current position at source: