Is legal service a good career choice?

I understand that LSOs dont get to be called to the bar until only after a few years. Do I need to go and find a TC to get called assuming I found out SLS is not my cup of tea?

I'm interested in public service but not sure how it will really be until I start working inside and I've heard horror stories about bureaucracy in civil service.

Seems like the safest way to cover all bases is to apply for a law firm TC and get called before applying to legal service?