mfg - SQE Route Q&A - Training Contract and QWE

Sep 22, 2026

A set of SQE-route questions and answers outlining how mfg positions graduate trainee solicitor applications progressing from SQE1 to SQE2, and how the firm will structure four six-month “seats” for successful candidates. The Q&A clarifies whether prior experience can count as QWE, what does or does not qualify, and the limitations of paralegal or legal assistant roles. It also explains eligibility for training contracts after completing the LPC, the firm’s SQE provider considerations, and that mfg does not currently sponsor the SQE.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

SQE route and trainee solicitor eligibility

Training contract structure and application submission

QWE and prior work experience

Roles that do not guarantee qualification

LPC eligibility and SQE completion

Preferred SQE providers

SQE sponsorship status

1. What is mfg’s position in respect of candidates looking to qualify as a solicitor via the SQE route? We very much welcome trainee solicitor applications from graduates who have completed SQE1 and are moving onto SQE2. Following introduction of the SQE, the firm has decided to maintain its traditional training contract structure of 4x six-month ‘seats ’ for all successful applicants, which will include contentious and non-contentious work. We view that this provides the right breadth of experience and assessment process to ensure our Trainees qualify into the practice area of best fit for both the individual and the firm. To apply for a training contract, please complete the application form on our website careers page and submit this to recruitment@mfgsolicitors.com by 31 January. 2. Does prior work experience count as Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) for the purpose of becoming a qualified solicitor with the firm? Whilst not guaranteed, we may potentially agree up to six months’‘time to count’, at the Firm’s discretion and will maintain that potential flexibility in respect of historical paralegal work undertaken with this firm. We do not deem that prior work experience with other firms, or other QWE, is transferable as QWE. 3. Will a Paralegal or Legal Assistant role enable me to secure a training contract or qualify as a solicitor with mfg? There is no guarantee that securing a Paralegal or Legal Assistant position with the firm will lead to a training contract as you are still subject to the same stringent application and selection process. The firm does not consider or guarantee that work undertaken in either of these roles will be classified as QWE for the purpose of qualification as a solicitor with the firm (where you have completed the SQE). As such, the completion of two years’ work experience in either role, and/or other QWE, does not guarantee a qualified solicitor role with mfg at the end of this period. This will however be kept under review and is subject to the Firm’s discretion. 4. I have already studied and passed the Legal Practise Course (LPC), or plan to do so as I am still eligible. Will I still need to complete the SQE? No, you are still eligible to apply for a training contract with the LPC. The training contract structure and application process is set out above. 5. Does mfg have a preferred training provider for the SQE? We have close links with the University of Law, however applicants will equally be considered if they have completed their SQE with another training provider. 6. Does mfg sponsor the SQE? We do not currently sponsor the SQE.

FAQs

How does mfg structure its training contract for candidates progressing from SQE1 to SQE2?

mfg welcomes trainee solicitor applications from graduates who have completed SQE1 and are moving onto SQE2. For successful applicants, the firm maintains a traditional training contract structure of 4x six-month “seats” covering contentious and non-contentious work.

Does prior work experience count as Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) for becoming a qualified solicitor with mfg?

Prior work experience is not guaranteed, but mfg may potentially agree up to six months’ “time to count” at the firm’s discretion. However, prior work experience with other firms, or other QWE, is not transferable as QWE.

If I complete the Legal Practise Course (LPC) instead of SQE, can I still apply to mfg for a training contract?

Yes. Candidates who have already studied and passed the LPC, or plan to do so while remaining eligible, can still apply for a training contract with mfg.

Sep 22, 2026

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