Undergraduate legal education and the FE-1: the experience of dual examination in Ireland

This paper explores the impact of the Solicitors Acts 1954 to 2011 (Apprenticeship and Education) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 on undergraduate legal education in Ireland. The 2019 Regulations provided for “accelerated access” to the Law Society of Ireland’s entrance examination (FE-1) thereby permitting undergraduate students to sit the exam. This study examines the experience and impact of sitting the FE-1 while simultaneously completing an undergraduate degree. It concentrates on points such as academic and career aspirations, workload management, and the alignment of the undergraduate curriculum with the FE-1. Empirical research based on a questionnaire completed by 121 participants reveals both benefits and challenges. Key findings draw attention to improved study skills and legal understanding but also stress and financial pressures experienced by participants. The article considers the broader implications for legal education and suggests a need for enhanced support and guidance from higher education institutions as well as potential reforms to the FE-1 process to better align with undergraduate programmes and reduce barriers to entry into the legal profession.