In the second episode of our legal podcast, QWE + Me, we are joined by Tim MacFarlan, a Solicitor at Helen Smith Immigration Limited, interviewed by BARBRI’s Head of Employability and Engagement, Robert Dudley.
In this episode, Rob sits down with Tim to explore his path from the newsroom into qualifying as a solicitor, the challenges of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), and his advice for others considering a similar transition. Here’s a redacted version. Watch the full episode above or on YouTube.
Finding a New Direction
Rob: What inspired you to move from journalism into law?
Tim: I’ve wanted to be a journalist since I was quite young, and I gave it a proper shot, nearly a decade now. But eventually I realised the long-term prospects weren’t aligning with what I wanted from a career. My wife suggested I consider law, and I started looking into the SQE. The flexibility of studying online while working full-time really appealed to me.
Rob: How did you get your first legal role?
Tim: Believe it or not, it was thanks to LinkedIn. My wife spotted someone who had transitioned from journalism to immigration law. I reached out with my CV, not expecting much, but a few months later they contacted me. I started working there that December and stayed for three and a half years – long enough to complete all my QWE.
Rob: Did you specialise in one practice area or rotate during your QWE?
Tim: I specialised exclusively in immigration law from the start. Given my background in journalism – working with people, politics, and current affairs – it felt like a natural fit. While some aspiring solicitors benefit from rotating through multiple areas, I valued depth and stability.
Rob: Did you feel at a disadvantage starting law later on?
Tim: Not at all. I saw my previous career as an advantage. Having transferable skills, maturity and professional experience made my CV stronger. I focused on demonstrating how those strengths would benefit the firm rather than worrying about not having a traditional legal background.
Transferable Skills in Practice
Rob: How did your QWE help you transition from paralegal to trainee?
Tim: It was a gradual shift. I went from handling more administrative work to taking on client contact, contributing in meetings, and dealing with inquiries. I made a conscious effort to carry myself as if I were already in the next role – first projecting myself as a trainee, then later as a solicitor.
Rob: What changed most once you qualified?
Tim: The responsibility. The buck really does stop with you once you’re qualified. You need confidence in your legal judgment. At my current, smaller firm, I also get involved in marketing and business development, which is new but exciting. There’s a real sense of ownership.
Rob: You studied for the SQE while working full-time. How did you manage?
Tim: It was definitely challenging, but doable with the right support. My firm was understanding, and I was motivated to move quickly through the process. Working and studying at the same time is intense, but for many people it’s the most practical route.
Rob: How did your journalism background help in your legal work?
Tim: It gave me strong communication and research skills, plus comfort working with different types of people. Journalism also teaches you to process information quickly and stay calm under pressure – skills you absolutely need in law.
Lessons Along the Way
Rob: What advice would you give aspiring solicitors considering the SQE route?
Tim: Prioritise finding a supportive environment. Culture and mentorship matter more than the exact practice area you start in. Be honest with your supervisors about your ambitions, set out a roadmap of competencies and goals, and lean into your previous experience. Don’t underestimate the value of transferable skills.
Rob: Looking back, would you change anything about your journey?
Tim: No, I’m happy with the path I took. Specialising early suited me, and I was fortunate to find a firm that supported me. For others, it might look different, but the key is finding somewhere you feel comfortable and can grow.
Tim’s journey shows that there is no single path to qualification. Whether you’re changing careers, studying while working, or exploring QWE opportunities, success depends on finding the right environment, recognising your strengths, and approaching the process with resilience.
His experience is a powerful reminder that the SQE route opens doors for people with diverse backgrounds, and that skills gained outside of law can be a major asset, not a barrier.
Want to learn more about QWE?: https://www.barbri.com/resources/qualifying-work-experience-what-you-need-to-know
Here's 10 tips for career changers looking to move into law: https://www.barbri.com/resources/top-10-tips-for-career-changers-breaking-into-law
Find out how you can get into law with a non-law degree: https://www.barbri.com/resources/can-i-be-a-solicitor-without-a-law-degree
Enrol in our SQE Prep courses today: https://www.barbri.com/sqe
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