Chartered Legal Executive (CILEx)
Become a specialist lawyer in your chosen practice area and a chartered member of CILEx. A recognised route to full lawyer status through the apprenticeship pathway.
What is the chartered legal executive (cilex)?
The Level 6 CILEx apprenticeship leads to Chartered Legal Executive status — a fully-qualified lawyer, on par with solicitors in your chosen specialism.
Once qualified, you can practise as a specialist lawyer and — with additional qualifications — progress to become a judge or partner.
What you'll do
Specialise deeply in one or two practice areas (litigation, family, private client, property).
Run your own caseload under supervision, then independently.
Take on advocacy and client-facing responsibility.
Progress toward chartered status through CILEx exams and portfolio work.
How the 3–4 years breaks down
Introductory CILEx modules and firm rotation.
Deep dive into your chosen practice area.
Sit final CILEx exams, qualify as Chartered Legal Executive.
Entry requirements
Requirements are set by each firm, but most look for: