Paving a new path: Jack Lambourn's journey as the first CILEX Graduate Qualification (CGQ) completer

When Jack Lambourn began his CILEX journey at the age of 26, he knew he wanted a route into the legal profession that offered more than just academic credentials - he was looking for real-world skills, flexibility and the ability to gain rights of audience. By 28, he had committed to the CILEX Graduate Qualification (CGQ) route, becoming the very first member to successfully complete this new pathway. 

"I was keen to obtain practice rights," Jack explains. "I looked into the alternatives to the LPC and found that CILEX could offer me a way to qualify without going back to university - building on my existing academic background while also giving me the tools I needed, like open court advocacy." 

The journey wasn't easy. Balancing full-time work with intense study demanded discipline, late nights and many sacrificed weekends. But Jack credits CILEX with helping him develop crucial transferable skills - especially time management and organisation. These became even more vital when his daughter arrived three months early, right in the middle of preparing for his Professional Skills Project and the Professional exam. 

"In hindsight, taking both assessments at the same time was probably not the best idea, but I wanted to keep moving forward. Juggling new fatherhood, full-time employment and revision was tough - but the end goal kept me going and I passed both first time." 

Now a professional advocate with rights of audience in all county court matters, Jack is reaping the rewards of his qualification. "I deal with more complex, higher-value Fast Track disputes - something that wouldn't have been possible without my CILEX practice rights. And because I also hold litigation rights, my career has flexibility. I can pivot between advocacy and litigation roles depending on what I want to do next." 

For Jack, CILEX represents more than just a qualification - it's about opportunity and accessibility. "Not everyone's legal journey starts the same way. For me, CILEX offered a route that recognised my previous qualifications while still allowing me to gain professional status. For others, it's a complete alternative to university. That's what makes it so valuable - it opens the profession up to people from all backgrounds." 

Throughout his studies, Jack made full use of the CILEX Bookcase - a digital resource he describes as indispensable. "Being able to access study materials from any device at any time was a game-changer. I could learn at my own pace, go back to key chapters easily and make detailed notes as I went." 

His advice to anyone considering CILEX? "Definitely go for it. It's a credible, flexible alternative to the traditional route - and one that lets you work and learn on your terms. Don't be afraid to reach out to other members for advice; the CILEX community is incredibly supportive." 

Jack also has a tip for current students; don't leave your portfolio to the end. "I kept a spreadsheet tracking what outcomes I'd met, what evidence I had and what I still needed. That mean when I got my final results in March 2024, I was already 90% ready to submit. It made the whole process far less stressful."

Today, as the first ever member to complete the new CILEX Graduate Qualification route (CGQ), Jack is proof that with commitment, resilience and the right support, there is more than one pathway to a successful legal career. And for those ready to take the leap, CILEX could be the answer.