Graduated… Now What? 7 Steps Every Law Graduate Should Take This Summer

Introduction

Graduation is a huge achievement so firstly, congratulations!

But once the celebrations quiet down, it's common to feel a bit lost. If you’ve just finished your law degree, you might be wondering: what now?

If you’re feeling a bit daunted, you’re not alone. The legal world is competitive, complex, and full of options. But the good news? There are some smart, simple steps you can take this summer to stay on track, build momentum, and make the most of this new chapter.

This post offers seven practical steps to help you navigate the months after graduation with purpose and confidence. 

1. Take a Breath (Seriously)

You’ve just completed one of the most demanding degrees out there. Before diving straight into the next thing, take a moment to pause. Reflect on what you've achieved. Rest, recharge, and give yourself space to think about your next move with a clear head.

2. Clarify Your Direction

Are you heading toward the Bar, a training contract, teaching, or something else?

Now's the time to be honest with yourself about your goals. You don’t need every answer today, but clarity on your short term goal will help shape your next steps. If you're unsure, talk to recent graduates, mentors, or even practitioners on LinkedIn.

3. Build Your Legal CV

Your CV post-graduation should reflect your academic achievements and your potential as a future lawyer. Include mooting, volunteering, research, client-facing experience and anything that demonstrates your skills.

If you haven’t done much outside of uni yet, don’t worry, now is the time to start. Consider applying for vacation schemes or mini pupillages, exploring shadowing opportunities, or part-time paralegal roles.

Volunteering at legal clinics or writing for law blogs can also boost your profile while you apply for pupillage or training contracts.

4. Stay Courtroom-Ready

Opportunities to practise advocacy after graduation can be scarce, which is why joining mooting competitions or clubs (like Advocacy Club) can help you stay sharp. It also shows employers that you’re serious about developing your practical skills.

5. Connect with the Profession

Don’t underestimate how helpful LinkedIn can be; not just for job hunting, but for learning, asking questions, and finding opportunities.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to reach out to barristers, solicitors, trainees, or recruiters whose paths interest you. Most are more approachable than you think and are happy to offer quick advice or share opportunities. You never know what doors might open.

6. Keep Learning

Graduation doesn’t mean you stop learning. Keep up with legal news, follow important cases, and revisit legal principles. Pick some legal newsletters to subscribe to (like Legal Cheek or The Lawyer) and skim it weekly.

Staying legally literate is one of the best things you can do and if you're heading to the Bar course or SQE, starting prep early can make a real difference when that heavy workload hits.

7. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others — Your Journey Is Yours

There’s no single timeline for success in law. Some people get pupillage at 22, others at 32. Some get rejected ten times before landing the right offer. The path is rarely straight, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going somewhere great.

Stay focused on your path and remember that persistence often matters more than perfect timing.

Final Thoughts

The period after graduation can feel uncertain, but it's also full of possibility. Focus on building experience, sharpening your skills, and making meaningful connections and you’ll be amazed at where you end up.

P.s, do you want to keep your advocacy and legal skills sharp and to join a community of like minded aspiring and junior? Check out our free legal community and get started today.