Stand up for others, solve complex problems and guide people through the law as a practising solicitor.
Solicitors are legal professionals who provide legal advice, draft legal documents, and may represent clients in lower courts. They work more directly with clients compared to barristers (specialised lawyers with specific training in advocacy). As legal professionals, solicitors advise businesses, governments, and individuals on a wide range of legal topics, including contract law, property law, administrative law, human rights, and negligence. At its core, being a legal practitioner involves managing disputes, advising on the appropriate forum for resolving those disputes, and supporting access to justice for clients. A career in law requires a range of skills, including problem-solving, strong communication, and an understanding of how the law affects everyday life.
Becoming a solicitor
The steps provided are specific to practising as a solicitor in Victoria.
If you want to practise law in another Australian state or territory, you must check with the admitting authority in that state or territory as although the requirements and processes are similar, they can differ in important ways.
To become a solicitor in Australia, you must first complete an accredited law degree (the academic requirement). The LLB degree at RMIT University satisfies this requirement.
Secondly, you must complete Practical Legal Training (PLT), which is essential and mandatory. PLT bridges the gap between academic study and real-world legal practice.
Once you have completed both requirements, you can apply for admission to the legal profession. In Victoria, this application is made to the Supreme Court of Victoria, and the Victorian Legal Admissions Board assesses your eligibility. This includes reviewing your academic qualifications, completion of PLT, and your character and suitability for legal practice.
After your application is approved, you will be formally admitted as an Australian lawyer (often called being ‘admitted to practice’) in a ceremony before the Supreme Court.
However, admission is not the final step. To actually work as a solicitor, you must also:
- Apply for a practising certificate through the Law Institute of Victoria (or relevant authority)
- Meet any ongoing professional obligations, such as continuing legal education.
Only after obtaining a practising certificate can you legally practise as a solicitor.
Step 1. Complete an accredited law degree
Which law course you apply for will depend on your education history. If you do not have an existing undergraduate qualification, then you should apply for the Bachelor of Laws. If you have an undergraduate qualification in an unrelated discipline, then you should apply for the Juris Doctor.
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Bachelor of Laws
February, July
On campus
Melbourne City
Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years
Juris Doctor
- February, July
- On campus
- Melbourne City
- Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years
Study a law double degree
Designed to complement each other and expand your career opportunities, RMIT offers law double degree combinations with accounting, business, commerce, and professional communication.
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Bachelor of Accounting/Bachelor of Laws
- February, July
- On campus
- Melbourne City
- Full-time 5 years, Part-time 10 years
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Business
- February, July
- On campus
- Melbourne City
- Full-time 5 years, Part-time 10 years
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce
- February, July
- On campus
- Melbourne City
- Full-time 5 years, Part-time 10 years
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Professional Communication
- February, July
- On campus
- Melbourne City
- Full-time 5 years, Part-time 10 years
Step 2. Complete Practical Legal Training
After completing the academic requirement pertaining to legal practice, you need to complete the Practical Legal Training (PLT) requirements. This can be completed through an approved PLT course. The PLT course can be undertaken on a fee-paying basis through the Leo Cussen Centre for Law, the ACAP University College or The College of Law.
Step 3. Apply for the Victorian Legal Admissions Board
To practise as a solicitor in Victoria, you must apply for the Victorian Legal Admissions Board.
A person is eligible for admission only if:
- they have appropriate academic qualifications and practical legal training, whether obtained in Australia or elsewhere; and
- they are a fit and proper person to be admitted to the Australian legal profession.
If you want to practise law in another Australian state or territory, you must check with the admitting authority in that state or territory as requirements and processes can differ, so it’s important to get the right information for your situation.
Step 4. Obtain a Practising Certificate
To be eligible as a new solicitor to apply for a Practising Certificate from the Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner, you must complete an additional 18 to 24 months of supervised practice at a law firm.
You must hold a current practising certificate at all times that you're engaged in legal practise. To apply for a Practising Certificate you need an organisation (entity) to be assigned to. If you are not currently employed or don’t have a job offer, you can’t apply for a Practising Certificate.
Your Practising Certificate is valid from the date that it's granted until the end of that financial year (30 June). You need to renew your Practising Certificate every year.
What does a solicitor do?
What are the daily tasks and duties of a solicitor?
The specific tasks, duties and responsibilities of a solicitor vary depending on your specialisation. However, in general this may include:
- Meeting with clients to discuss their legal issues and provide advice
- Researching laws, regulations, and case law relevant to current legal matters
- Drafting and reviewing legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and court submissions
- Representing clients in negotiations, mediations, or court hearings
- Communicating with other solicitors, judges, and professionals to progress cases
- Preparing evidence and arguments to support clients’ positions
- Ensuring all actions comply with legal and ethical standards
- Keeping up to date with changes in laws and legal procedures
- Managing case files, deadlines, and documentation efficiently.
What skills does a successful solicitor need?
A successful solicitor relies on a mix of professional and interpersonal skills to navigate legal challenges and support those who rely on their expertise.
Professional skills are the technical abilities learned through study and practice, like understanding statutes and case law, carrying out research, drafting documents, and interpreting complex legal information. These are essential for providing accurate advice and representing clients effectively.
Solicitors also need interpersonal skills such as strong communication skills to explain legal issues clearly, negotiate and advocate for clients, and build trust. Problem-solving and analytical thinking help them see all sides of an issue and find practical solutions. Attention to detail ensures accuracy, while organisation skills help manage demanding workloads. Finally, empathy, emotional intelligence and professionalism are key for relating to clients, easing stressful situations, and upholding ethical standards.
Where do solicitors work?
Solicitors work in a wide range of settings, depending on their area of expertise and interests. Many work in law firms, serving clients from individuals to large corporations. Others are employed by government departments, handling everything from policy to criminal prosecution. In-house legal teams are common in businesses and organisations, where solicitors focus on contracts, compliance, and risk management. Some solicitors work in community legal centres, helping people who may not otherwise afford legal services. Courts and tribunals also need lawyers as judges, magistrates, or legal clerks. Whether in private, public, or not-for-profit sectors, solicitors play a vital role in keeping legal processes fair and accessible.
How much do solicitors earn?
The average annual salary for solicitors in Australia is $105,000 per year*.
*Source: Seek.com.au 2026
Learn more about your law study options
Whether you're a Year 12 student weighing up your options or thinking about switching careers, RMIT's law courses provide a comprehensive and industry-focused education that can help you succeed as a solicitor in Australia.
