HomeNews & AdviceCommercial NewsFancy a career in employment law? Here’s how.

Fancy a career in employment law? Here’s how.

Northumbria University advise on the steps to embark on a career in employment law

Whether you’re just embarking on your career or already on the road into a career in HR, the notion of becoming an employment lawyer may well have crossed your mind.

Employment law offers a  challenging and rewarding job role within HR, enabling you to work in all legal matters relating to the workplace, as well as perhaps representing a party in employment tribunals.

Employment lawyers can work both in law firms or within an HR department where an in-house lawyer is required.

But what’s the best way to get a career in employment law? Northumbria University provides insight into the salaries, skills and experience needed to start a career in law…

 

The vital statistics

Salary range: £29,000-£41,500*

Average salary: £37,500

Job roles and responsibilities…

  • Advising on the employer/employee relationship in all matters relating to:
    • Performance
    • Sickness and absence
    • Restructures and redundancies
    • Employment documentation
    • Grievance and disciplinary matters
  • Working in the best interests of both the employer and employees
  • Working to ensure the obligations of both employers and employees are met
  • Making tough HR decisions and handling complicated issues
  • Keep up-to-date with changes in employment law

 

Skills and personality traits…

  • Analytical skills to determine the best and most appropriate actions
  • Fantastic written and verbal communication skills
  • Organisational and motivational skills
  • The ability to make tough choices
  • Adaptable in order to respond to the ever-changing nature of employment law
  • Self-motivated to undertake Continuing Professional Development

 

Your career in employment law

Employment lawyers are legal professionals specialising in employment law, and there are several routes to qualifying:

  • You can take the legal route – becoming a barrister or solicitor then specialising in employment law. This typically takes the following route:
    • A qualifying law degree, such as a Bachelor of Laws is the first step. You can find a list of providers here.
    • For degrees in a subject other than law, a conversion course needs to be taken. This can either be a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or a Common Professional Examination (CPE).
    • LPC: After a qualifying law degree, the next step is the Legal Practice Course. Usually taken full time over a year, this is a practical course to get the right experience and training for the job.
    • Period of Recognised Training: After the LPC, a Period of Recognised Training must be completed – working as a trainee solicitor. During this time, a Professional Skills Course (PSC) needs to be completed.
  • You can also boost your credentials with a CIPD-accredited qualification. Courses are available at a number of different CIPD-approved institutions in the form of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
  • Unsure about funding this level of professional development? Speak to your employer. They may be willing to sponsor your study and give you study days to complete your work – especially if you can make a case for how it will benefit their business.

 

*totaljobs.com salary checker

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