Are you getting ready for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination Part 1 (SQE1)? Understanding the SRA SQE1 syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. Whether you’re considering an SQE1 course, engaging in SQE self-study, or exploring SQE1 materials, this article will break down the key subjects and areas tested in the SQE1, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
Whether you’re preparing for SQE1 or SQE2, our specialised resources are here to guide you every step of the way:
What is the SQE1?
The SQE1 is the first stage of the two-part Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in England and Wales. It focuses on assessing your legal knowledge across various subjects that form the foundation of legal practice. The SQE1 is divided into two papers, each consisting of 180 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), designed to test your understanding of Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK).
Key Subjects in the SQE 1 Syllabus
The SQE1 syllabus covers a wide range of subjects that you’ll encounter in everyday legal practice. These are grouped into two parts: FLK1 and FLK2.
SQE1 FLK1 – Functioning Legal Knowledge 1
Business Law and Practice
In the Business Law and Practice section of the SQE 1 exam, the focus is on various aspects of running and managing a business, regardless of its structure. Here’s what you can expect:
- Starting a New Business
- Management of a Business and Company Decision-Making
- Interests, Rights, Obligations, and Powers of Stakeholders
- Financing a Business
- Taxation of a Business and its Stakeholders
- Termination of a Solvent Business, Corporate Insolvency, and Personal Bankruptcy
Dispute Resolution
In the Dispute Resolution section of the SQE1, candidates are tested on various stages and elements of resolving disputes through legal processes. This section is essential for understanding how to manage and resolve disputes effectively within the legal framework. Here’s a breakdown:
- Analysis of Merits of Claim or Defence
- Arbitration, Mediation, and Litigation
- Pre-Action Considerations and Steps
- Commencing, Responding to, or Progressing a Claim
- Case Management and Interim Applications
- Evidence and Disclosure Steps
- Preparation for Trial, the Trial, and Post-Trial Steps
- Procedures and Processes Relevant to Costs
Contract Law
In the Contract Law section of the SQE1, candidates are assessed on the fundamental principles of contract law, which is crucial for understanding how legally binding agreements are formed, enforced, and terminated. Here’s an overview of the key topics covered:
- Existence/Formation of a Contract
- Contents of a Contract
- Causation and Remoteness
- Vitiating Elements
- Discharge of Contract and Remedies
- Unjust Enrichment
Tort Law
In the Tort Law section of the SQE1, candidates explore various facets of civil wrongs and their legal implications. Here’s what you can expect:
- Negligence
- Remedies and Defences
- Occupiers’ Liability
- Product Liability
- Nuisance and the Rule in Rylands v Fletcher
Legal System of England and Wales
In the Legal System of England and Wales section of the SQE1, candidates are evaluated on their understanding of the foundational aspects of the legal system. Key topics include:
- The Courts
- Development of Case Law: the Doctrine of Precedent
- Primary Legislation
- Statutory Interpretation
Public Law (Constitutional & Administrative Law and EU Law)
In the Public Law section of the SQE1 exam, candidates are evaluated on critical aspects of constitutional and administrative law, along with the influence of EU law. Here’s a breakdown:
- Constitutional Framework
- The Separation of Powers
- Judicial Review
- Human Rights
- The Impact of EU Law on Domestic Law
Legal Services
In the Legal Services section of the SQE1, candidates are assessed on their knowledge of the regulatory framework and funding mechanisms within the legal sector. This section covers:
- The Regulatory Role of the SRA
- Funding Options for Legal Services
For a detailed syllabus, access the FLK1 SQE PDF here.
SQE1 FLK2 – Functioning Legal Knowledge 2
Property Practice
In the SQE1, the Property Law and Transactions section addresses essential aspects of handling both residential and commercial property transactions. Here’s a detailed overview of the key topics:
- Key Elements of Property Transactions
- Investigation of Titles
- Pre-Contract Searches and Enquiries
- Progressing Property Transactions to Exchange of Contracts
- Pre-Completion Steps
- Completion and Post-Completion Steps
- Grant and Assignment of Commercial Leases
- Key Lease Covenants and Breach
- Security of Tenure
- Taxation of Property Transactions
Wills and the Administration of Estates
In the SQE1 exam, the Wills and Administration of Estates section covers key principles and practices related to the creation, interpretation, and execution of wills, as well as the management of estates. Here’s what you can expect:
- Validity of a Will and Interpretation
- Distribution of Estates
- Grant of Representation
- Inheritance Tax
- Estate Administration
- Personal Representatives and Trustees
Solicitors Accounts
In the SQE1, the Solicitors Accounts section focuses on the essential aspects of managing client and firm finances in compliance with regulatory requirements. Key topics include:
- Transactions Involving Client Money and Money Belonging to the Authorised Body
- Operation of Ledgers and Bank Accounts; Payment of Interest
- Breaches of the SRA Accounts Rules
- Accounting Entries Required; Bills; Obtaining and Delivery of Accountants’ Reports
- Obligations Regarding Record-Keeping
Land Law
In the Land Law section of the SQE1 exam, candidates explore the principles and practices related to the ownership and use of land. This section covers:
- Registered and Unregistered Land
- Freehold and Leasehold Estates, and Legal and Equitable Interests in Land
- Landlord and Tenant
- Co-Ownership
Trusts
In the Trusts section of the SQE1, candidates delve into various aspects of trust law, focusing on the creation, management, and dissolution of trusts. Here’s a breakdown:
- Express and Implied Trusts
- The Fiduciary Relationship
- Trustees’ Duties, Powers, and Liability
- Equitable Remedies
Criminal Law and Practice
In the Criminal Law and Practice section of the SQE1 exam, candidates are evaluated on their understanding of criminal liability principles, as well as the procedural aspects of criminal practice. Here’s a detailed overview of the key topics:
- Core Principles of Criminal Liability
- Law, Procedure, and Processes at the Police Station
- Pre-Trial Considerations
- Meeting the Client’s Objectives
- Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court Trials
For a detailed syllabus, access the FLK2 SQE PDF here.
Ethics and Professional Conduct
In the SQE1 syllabus, ethics and professional conduct are integral to all subject areas, reflecting the importance of these principles in the practice of law. This overarching theme ensures that candidates not only grasp legal principles but also apply them in accordance with the high ethical standards expected of solicitors.
Prepare for the SQE1 with the Academy of Smart Lawyers
Get ahead in your SQE1 preparation with our range of comprehensive resources designed to support your study routine effectively. Our offerings are structured around the SQE exam syllabus, ensuring that you cover all the essential areas needed to succeed:
Recorded Law Lectures
- Tailored for Non-Native Speakers
- Structured SQE Synopsis Notes
- Dual-Lecturer Approach
- Affordable: Priced at £35 per lecture.
Interactive SQE Live Group Sessions
- Engage with Practising Solicitors
- Expert-Led Content
- Flexible Pricing: Sessions range from £25-£80 each, scheduled throughout the year.
SQE1 Sample Questions (MCQs)
- Expanding Database
- Realistic Exam Interface
- Cost-Effective: Prices start from £15 per mock test.
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Register on the SQE SUPERexam e-learning and training platform today to open full access to these valuable SQE1 resources and boost your exam readiness.
