What happens after admission
Admission and practising certificates are different
Admission places you on the roll of lawyers. A practising certificate is the separate authority you need before engaging in legal practice.
Yes, if you intend to practise
Being admitted does not by itself authorise you to provide legal services. To practise as a solicitor or barrister, apply for the appropriate practising certificate from the regulator in the jurisdiction where you will practise.
Think of admission as professional status and the practising certificate as current permission to practise. The certificate has a defined type, conditions, renewal period and regulatory obligations.
- 01
Finish PLT and admission requirements
Obtain the practical training evidence and other documents required by your admitting authority.
- 02
Be admitted by the Supreme Court
Complete the admission process and have your name entered on the roll of lawyers.
- 03
Choose the correct certificate pathway
Apply through the solicitor regulator or the Bar authority, depending on the work you intend to do.
- 04
Comply with certificate conditions
New solicitors commonly practise under supervision until the required period is completed and the condition is removed.
The difference in plain language
| Admission | Practising certificate |
|---|---|
| Granted through the Supreme Court admission process | Issued by the relevant professional regulator |
| Makes you an Australian lawyer | Authorises the legal practice described by the certificate |
| Normally occurs once | Must be kept current and renewed |
| Does not alone permit legal practice | Can include supervised practice and other conditions |
New lawyers usually begin under supervision
A first practising certificate commonly limits the holder to supervised legal practice. The required period and process for removing the condition depend on the applicable legislation and regulator.
Solicitor and barrister pathways differ
Admission is a common starting point. The practising certificate process then depends on whether you intend to practise as a solicitor or barrister and on the jurisdiction where you will practise.
Reviewed 28 July 2026
Check the current rules
Admission requirements can change. Use the official guidance below and confirm your position with the relevant admitting authority.
Frequently asked questions
Can I call myself a lawyer after admission?
Admission makes you an Australian lawyer. You must still avoid suggesting that you are entitled to engage in legal practice if you do not hold the required practising certificate.
Can I give legal advice without a practising certificate?
Engaging in legal practice generally requires a current practising certificate, subject to limited statutory exceptions. Check the regulator before performing legal work.
How long does supervised legal practice last?
The period depends on the jurisdiction and pathway. For example, current Queensland guidance states 24 months for practitioners admitted after a PLT course.
Does a practising certificate renew automatically?
No. Practising certificates operate for a defined period and renewal requirements apply. Follow the process set by your regulator.
Ready to plan your PLT?
Check your eligibility first, then choose a start date that works with your study, work and admission plans.