Which examination component is focused on practical legal skills in the SQE?

The emphasis on practical legal skills is a hallmark of SQE2, which is specifically designed to assess candidates' abilities through practical assessments such as interviewing clients, advocacy, drafting legal documents, and providing legal advice. The assessment format simulates real-life legal scenarios, requiring candidates to demonstrate their competence in practical settings that a solicitor would encounter in their day-to-day practice.

In contrast, SQE1 primarily focuses on knowledge and understanding of law through multiple-choice questions covering various legal principles and rules. Therefore, while both components contribute to a solicitor’s overall training, it is SQE2 that directly tests the application of practical legal skills necessary for effective legal practice.