What is the focus of SQE1?

The focus of SQE1 is on the assessment of legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions. This examination is designed to test a candidate's understanding of fundamental legal concepts, principles, and laws that are essential for practice as a solicitor in England and Wales. It covers a broad range of topics, including contract law, tort law, criminal law, constitutional law, and practice and procedure.

The multiple-choice format allows for a standardized assessment of knowledge across a diverse range of legal subjects, enabling candidates to demonstrate their grasp of both theoretical concepts and their practical application. This approach is efficient for assessing the breadth of knowledge required in the legal field and allows for clear and objective grading.

In contrast, assessments of practical legal skills or client representation skills focus on the application of knowledge in real-world contexts, which are typically covered in SQE2. Additionally, the assessment of legal knowledge through essay questions, while valuable in some contexts, is not the format used for SQE1, which firmly emphasizes multiple-choice questions to ascertain candidates' readiness to engage in legal practice.