Helpline FAQ
These are just examples of the typical questions asked and the type of advice the helpline can provide. However, this section is in no way intended to be comprehensive and if you need help we strongly advise you to pick up the phone and call us.
I am a final year law student. Due to my mounting student debt I am thinking of declaring myself bankrupt so that I can have a fresh start. Will this prevent me from becoming a solicitor?
Before you embark on the LPC it is necessary to enrol as a Student Member of the Law Society. This is usually done in the March of your final year but can be done earlier, especially if there are any issues to resolve. A form has to be completed which includes a section asking whether any County Court Judgments have been entered against you or whether you have been declared bankrupt. This information must always be disclosed. You will also be required to supply two references. At least one of these individuals must be aware of the bankruptcy and be able to comment on it. They must also have known you for a significant period of time prior to the bankruptcy occurring. Once the student enrolment form is received by the Law Society they will decide whether to grant you student enrolment. To reach this decision the Law Society may require you to be interviewed by an adjudicator so that they can ask some further questions about your situation. Becoming bankrupt will not necessarily prevent you from becoming a solicitor. However, each case is decided on an individual basis depending on the facts in question. Therefore a definitive answer cannot be given at this stage. Should you require any further information on this issue please contact Information services at the Law Society on 0870 606 2555.
