David Isbister's legal career spans more than three decades. Starting as an outdoor clerk at just 19 years old, he has progressed to become a Partner at Belvederes Solicitors LLP, a CILEX Fellow and a qualified Probate and Conveyancing Practitioner.
We spoke to David about why he chose CILEX, how it shaped his career and why he believes it remains a credible route into the legal profession.
I left school at 18 without completing my A levels and, at the end of 1991, wanted to explore a career in law after achieving an AS Level in Law. I started work as an outdoor clerk and today I'm a Partner in the same firm.
Although I was aware of CILEX (known as ILEX at the time), I decided to complete an A Level in Law before committing to the course.
I initially studied through night school but found attending classes after a full day's work and then travelling home was extremely tiring. I switched to distance learning, which suited me much better, although it meant spending many weekends studying in the library.
At the time, my firm's main practice area was civil litigation. Working as an outdoor clerk meant I spent much of my time at the High Court issuing proceedings, attending appointments and conducting hearings. Continuing with the Civil Litigation practice course felt like the natural next step.
After completing my examinations, I continued working as a CILEX member before becoming a Fellow in 2001. Later, I retrained in Wills, Trusts and Probate and have since gained reserved legal activity practice rights as both a CILEX Probate Practitioner and CILEX Conveyancing Practitioner.
I found the courses to be very well structured and closely aligned with the work I was doing at the time, particularly the practice course.
The confidence gained by studying and working in the same area of law cannot be underestimated. Combining practical experience with professional study provided the foundation to continue developing throughout my career.
Wanting to become a lawyer when leaving school and actually achieving that goal are two very different things, particularly as I had no intention of going to university.
The CILEX qualification made that possible. Without it, my options at the time would have been extremely limited.
I am a strong advocate of CILEX.
It may not be the right route for everyone, but it is a credible alternative to the traditional university pathway. I have always been proud to become a Fellow of CILEX.
In my professional experience, CILEX is a strong organisation that supports its members throughout what can often be a challenging and constantly evolving profession.
While I haven't made extensive use of the member services, I have contributed to CILEX CPD by delivering a webinar on Wills and Inheritance.
I would encourage anyone interested in a legal career to explore the CILEX route.
The standing of CILEX has grown significantly over the years. When I first started, I often used an analogy comparing the legal profession to the medical profession. Over time, that comparison has become outdated because the role and recognition of CILEX members has evolved considerably.
Today, there is very little difference between Solicitors and CILEX Members. CILEX Fellows can become Partners, as I have, without a firm needing to become an Alternative Business Structure (ABS). We can also achieve regulation for reserved legal activities in our specialist areas.
While recent discussions around reserved legal activities have brought greater attention to regulation, they also reinforce the value of becoming a regulated specialist through CILEX.
The CILEX qualification offers a route to become a lawyer.
It is designed for people who want to develop and progress at a pace and budget that works for them. The benefits of this route should not be understated. For those who do not fit the traditional academic pathway, it provides a genuine alternative that allows them to achieve professional recognition.