The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From Employment Law Specialist (L2)
2-3 years as an L2Skills to master
- Independently manage complex matters, lead internal investigations, provide proactive advice, and begin informal mentorship.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently handles a full caseload of moderate-to-high complexity matters with minimal oversight.
- Successfully led at least 2-3 significant internal investigations from start to finish.
- Receives positive feedback from HR and business partners on the quality and practicality of advice.
- Demonstrates a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating legal risks.
- 2
Direct Entry from Private Practice
5-8 years PQE in a reputable employment law firmSkills to master
- Adapting to an in-house environment, understanding business objectives beyond pure legal risk, and building internal stakeholder relationships.
You're ready to move on when
- Experience advising corporate clients on a broad range of employment law issues.
- Track record of managing employment tribunal claims and conducting workplace investigations for clients.
- Strong client management skills and ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical business advice.
- A genuine desire to move in-house and become an integral part of a commercial legal team.