degree

means a UK degree, awarded at level 6 (or above) of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, by a recognised degree-awarding body

overseas

means outside England and Wales

academic stage of training

means the undertaking by an individual of the following programmes of study which satisfy the requirements of the Joint Statement:

1. a Qualifying Law Degree;
2. a CPE;
3. an Exempting Law Degree; or
4. an Integrated Course;

at an approved education provider

vocational stage of training

means:

1. the Legal Practice Course;
2. a required period of recognised training; and
3. the Professional Skills Course.

period of recognised training

means training required under the SRA Authorisation of Individuals Regulations

character and suitability

includes fitness and propriety under rule 13.1 of the SRA Authorisation of Firms Rules

solicitor

means a person who has been admitted as a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales and whose name is on the roll.

register of European lawyers

means the register of European lawyers maintained by the SRA under regulation 15 of the European Communities (Lawyer's Practice) Regulations 2000 (SI 2000/1119)

register of foreign lawyers

means the register of foreign lawyers maintained by the SRA under section 89 of the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990

lawyer

means a member of one of the following professions, entitled to practise as such:

1. the profession of solicitor, barrister or advocate of the UK;
2. an authorised person other than one authorised by the SRA;
3. any profession approved by the SRA for RFL status; and
4. any other regulated legal profession specified by the SRA for the purpose of this definition

foreign lawyer

has the meaning given in section 89(9) of the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990

higher courts advocacy qualification

means either:

1. Higher Courts (Civil Advocacy) Qualification which entitles the solicitor or REL to exercise rights of audience in all civil proceedings in the higher courts, including judicial review proceedings in any court arising from any criminal cause; or
2. Higher Courts (Criminal Advocacy) Qualification which entitles the solicitor or REL to exercise rights of audience in all criminal proceedings in the higher courts and judicial review proceedings in any court arising from any criminal cause