Criminal Convictions & Professional Eligibility

If you have received a police caution or have a criminal conviction, you must declare this in your application. In addition, we will ask you to provide confirmation of whether you have any unspent criminal convictions as part of the admissions process. Declaring a caution or conviction will not automatically preclude you from admission. However, our institution is required to assess the details of any such matter to:

• Firstly, ensure there is no risk to the safety or wellbeing of other students or staff; and

• Secondly, advise whether the nature of the conviction or caution may affect your eligibility to practise your chosen legal profession.

The SRA’s Character & Suitability Rules require disclosure of criminal conduct when assessing eligibility to be a practising solicitor. sra.org.uk

Similarly, the BSB’s fit and proper person checks apply to those wishing to become a practising barrister: you may need to disclose spent or unspent convictions, cautions, or other relevant matters. barstandardsboard.org.uk

We strongly recommend you review:

• SRA guidance at sra.org.uk/character-and-suitability

• BSB guidance at barstandardsboard.org.uk/training-qualification/becoming-a-barrister/fit-proper-person-checks

This helps ensure you are fully aware of how any past caution or conviction may be considered in both your educational pathway and future professional qualification.