Qualify as a SolicitorWithout the Training Contract
A comprehensive six-module toolkit for the Equivalent Means: Period of Recognised Training (PRT) exemption route: the LPC-based pathway that lets you qualify through supervised legal experience, without a training contract or the SQE, and with no further exams to sit.
Six Modules. One Complete Toolkit.
Everything you need to prepare, structure, and submit a compelling Equivalent Means application.
Register to read Module 1 free - request access for the full toolkit.
Introduction to Equivalent Means
Understand the SRA's Equivalent Means route, eligibility criteria, how to position your application for success, and a guidance note on identifying the areas of law you've practised.
The 12 Practice Skill Standards
A deep dive into each of the SRA's 12 Practice Skill Standards and what assessors are looking for in your evidence.
The Situation to Action to Outcome Method
Master the SAO method, the structured framework for presenting your professional experience compellingly.
Portfolio & Templates
Ready-to-use templates, portfolio structures, and formatting guides to assemble a professional application pack.
Examples & Evidence Guide
Real-world examples and evidence guidance to help you articulate your competence across all skill standards.
Securing Your Supervisor References
How to approach supervisors, what the SRA expects from references, and templates for reference requests.
I qualified through this exact route.
I'm Martine Doce, a solicitor of England and Wales. I didn't take the traditional training contract route. I qualified through Equivalent Means, building a portfolio of real legal work and demonstrating my competence against the SRA's standards.
When I was navigating this pathway, the information was scattered and hard to piece together. I created this toolkit so you don't have to figure it out alone. Every module is built on first-hand experience of what the SRA actually wants to see, and how to present your work in a way that assessors can confidently score.
This programme is provided in a personal capacity. It does not constitute legal advice or legal services.
Read my full storyI've helped other applicants, too.
These are real messages from people I've personally guided through the Equivalent Means process. This one-to-one support is what shaped the toolkit. Names have been kept private.
My application has now been accepted and I am due to complete two electives and will then send a completion certificate and hopefully be admitted as a solicitor.
Applicant Name
Application accepted after seeking guidance on the process
Hi Martine, I just wanted to thank you for jumping on the call yesterday. Your help in mapping out competencies was so helpful. Now I have a clearer idea of what does and doesn't count under the SRA.
Applicant Name
After a 1:1 guidance call on mapping SRA competencies
Hi Martine, thank you so much! Really appreciate your guidance and support.
Applicant Name
After reviewing their application approach
I've had an update to say they've allocated a caseworker to my application, hopefully not too long now.
Applicant Name
Application outcome update after seeking guidance on certified copies
Start Your Journey Today
Join aspiring solicitors across England and Wales who are qualifying via the Equivalent Means route, on their own terms.
The Toolkit
The full portal: six modules covering the Equivalent Means route from introduction to securing supervisor references, plus templates and worked examples.
Quick Eligibility Check
A structured preliminary review of your background against the SRA's Equivalent Means criteria, a fast, informed read on where you stand.
Portfolio Review
A coming-soon service: get your Equivalent Means portfolio checked by a solicitor who qualified through this exact route, before it goes to the SRA.
Wondering if your background qualifies?
See the kinds of cases we assess and how each candidate found their route.
Read our case studiesStay Updated
Get occasional tips on eligibility and the SRA application process.