At Freedom Law Clinic, 2025 has been off to a dynamic start. We’ve been working closely with undergraduate students through our Criminal Appeal Programme and with postgraduates on our SQE and QWE pathways. If there’s one truth that continues to stand out across all levels of legal training, it’s this:

Law is about taking opportunities.

Whether you’re an aspiring solicitor or barrister, success often hinges not on what you know, but on what you do with the chances you’re given.

Real Legal Experience: The Undergraduate Advantage

Our Criminal Appeal Programme is more than just an academic exercise. It’s a unique opportunity for students to:

• Work on real criminal cases
• Develop genuine legal research and writing skills
• Produce a tangible piece of work that showcases their ability

This kind of experience is rare at the undergraduate level—and it’s exactly what law firms and chambers want to see.

But here’s the catch: you never know who is watching.

The Power of Making an Impression

Speak to any lawyer, and you’ll hear a common story: they got their first break through a work placement, an internship, or by impressing someone during a period of unpaid experience. Not everyone walks straight into a top-tier law firm through a formal application. Many get there by showing up, doing the work, and making an impression.

• Arriving on time
• Being prepared
• Going the extra mile

These actions build trust—and open doors.

Don’t Waste Legal Opportunities

It still amazes us when students fail to fully engage with our programmes. When they show up late to meetings or simply don’t deliver any work. I mean, fair enough. Life gets in the way.

But…

Whether paid for by their university or out of their own pocket, our courses are designed to give students a platform to shine.

And the reality is, there are always students out there who will outwork you. Many are more consistent, more focused, and just as talented. The legal industry is competitive. Letting these opportunities pass you by means falling behind.

Practical Experience: A Legal CV Game-Changer

In law, practical legal experience matters. The work you do now—even if it seems minor—can be the thing that makes your CV stand out later.

That case you helped research, that legal opinion you drafted, or that client file you worked on as part of your QWE—these all demonstrate real-world ability. And when recruiters or interviewers ask, “What have you done?”—you’ll have compelling answers.

Final Word: Just Show Up

Woody Allen once said, “80% of success is showing up.” In law, it’s probably closer to 90%.

Every session, every case, every assignment is an opportunity to build your legal reputation, grow your skills, and be noticed by someone who could influence your future.

So show up. Show up ready. Show up consistently. You never know where it might lead.

Interested in gaining real legal experience while preparing for the SQE?
Explore our Criminal Appeal Programme, SQE training, and QWE opportunities at Freedom Law Clinic.