SQE2 client interview example

This SQE2 client interview example is an annotated transcript extract from a wills matter, showing the questions, summaries and explanations that earn marks. Pair it with the SQE2 client interview skill page and practise out loud on the practice task list.

What the interview is marked on

The client-assessor marks you on skills only. The published criteria cover three things: listening and effective questioning so the client can say what matters; explaining in a way the client understands; and building and keeping a relationship of trust and confidence. The law is tested in your attendance note afterwards, not in the interview, so do not give a lecture. Gather facts, give clear first advice, and check understanding.

The extract below is invented. The client is Daniel Okoye, 68, who has asked for help to make a will. The advice is correct for England and Wales.

Annotated transcript: the opening

Solicitor: Good morning, Mr Okoye. I am the solicitor who will help you today. We have about 25 minutes. I would like to hear what you want to achieve, then ask some questions, and then tell you what I think. Is that all right?

Why it works: a greeting, a time frame and a plan. The client knows what will happen, which builds trust.

Solicitor: What has brought you in today?

Client: I married again last year. I think I need a new will. I have two grown children from my first marriage.

Solicitor: Tell me more about what is worrying you.

Why it works: an open question, then silence for the client's own words. Do not jump to a list of closed questions.

Client: My wife Grace is lovely, but I want my children to get something too. We live in the house we bought together. I also have a flat that I rent out.

Solicitor: So you want to look after Grace and also your son and daughter. Have I understood that correctly?

Why it works: a short summary that uses the client's priorities and invites correction.

Annotated transcript: facts and first advice

Solicitor: Can you tell me how you and Grace own the house?

Client: I do not know. We both signed.

Solicitor: That is common. I will check the title. It matters because if you own it as joint tenants, the house passes to Grace automatically when you die, whatever your will says. Is that something you want, or would you like your children to have a share?

Why it works: it admits the fact is unknown, explains the legal consequence in one plain sentence, and turns it into a decision for the client. A closed question follows only after the explanation.

Solicitor: I need to ask about your earlier will. Do you have one?

Client: Yes, from ten years ago. Everything to the children.

Solicitor: Thank you. This is important. In England and Wales, getting married normally cancels an earlier will, unless it was made expecting that marriage. So at the moment your estate may pass under the intestacy rules, not as you intended. Does that worry you?

Why it works: it spots the key risk early and states the rule in short words. The question at the end checks the client's reaction. The law criterion is marked later, but the explaining skill is marked here.

Solicitor: Before we go further, is there anyone who might be unhappy with your plan, or anyone you depend on for help with your affairs?

Why it works: it tests for family conflict and possible undue influence without accusing anyone. It also helps you spot a possible claim by a spouse or child under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

Annotated transcript: closing

Solicitor: Let me summarise. You want Grace to be able to live in the house for her life, your flat to go to your children, and you want to be sure your old will no longer causes problems. I will check the title, draft a new will, and explain the options for the house, including a trust. I will also ask for proof of identity. Have I missed anything?

Why it works: it ends with a complete summary, next steps and a final open check. The assessor hears your plan and the client feels heard.

What the assessor looks for

• An opening that sets out the plan and the time.
• Open questions first, then narrower ones to fill gaps.
• Short summaries after each topic, in the client's words.
• Plain English, with legal terms explained once.
• Warmth and respect, without being over-friendly.
• Control of time: you must cover the essential topics and leave time to close.

Common mistakes

• Asking five questions at once. The client answers the last one only.
• Giving full advice before you know the facts.
• Using Latin or statute numbers with a client who is not a lawyer.
• Missing a hidden fact, such as a marriage, a second property or a vulnerable relative.
• Running out of time without a summary or next steps.

Record yourself on a practice task and listen back. You will hear filler and interruptions you cannot hear while speaking.

Checklist

1. Greet, give the time and the plan.
2. Open question, then listen.
3. Summarise priorities in the client's words.
4. Cover all key topics: people, assets, risks, deadline.
5. Explain each key legal point in one or two plain sentences.
6. Check ethics: capacity, pressure, conflict, identity.
7. Close with a full summary and clear next steps.

Questions

Related

• SQE2 client interview: how to structure it
• SQE2 attendance note example
• SQE2 wills and probate: what the tasks look like
• SQE2 ethics and professional conduct: how it is tested

Sources: SRA: The SQE2 assessment (presentation); Law Society: SQE1 and SQE2 assessments; Legislation.gov.uk: Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Checked 10 November 2026.