Barrister

What is a barrister?

A barrister is a type of lawyer who specializes in courtroom advocacy and providing legal advice. They mainly work in the field of litigation and represent clients in court.

What does a barrister do?

• Represents clients in court during trials, hearings, and other legal proceedings
• Provides legal advice and prepares legal documents for clients
• Conducts research to build a strong case for their clients
• Negotiates and settles disputes on behalf of clients
• Collaborates with solicitors and other legal professionals to work on cases

What does the day-to-day life of a barrister look like?

A barrister's schedule can vary depending on their workload and court schedule. They may have to attend court hearings and trials, meet with clients, and work on legal research and case preparation. They may work long hours, especially when they have important cases or approaching deadlines.

Where does a barrister work?

Barristers can work in different settings, including:

• Chambers: Barristers often work from chambers, which are shared offices where multiple barristers work together. Chambers provide administrative support, library resources, and a collaborative environment.
• Courts: Barristers spend a significant amount of their time in various courts, presenting cases and representing clients.
• Self-employed: Some barristers choose to be self-employed and work independently. They may have their office and handle their own client base.
• Law firms: Barristers may also work for law firms where they collaborate with solicitors on specific cases.

What tools/software/hardware does a barrister use?

Barristers use various tools and software, including:

• Legal research databases: Barristers rely on online legal databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis to access legal precedents and gather information for their cases.
• Case management software: Barristers use software to track case details, manage documents, and maintain communication with clients and colleagues.
• Courtroom equipment: Barristers use hardware such as laptops, printers, and audio-visual equipment for presentations and displaying evidence in court.

What do I need to become a barrister?

To become a barrister in the UK, you need to follow these steps:

• Academic education: Obtain a law degree (LLB) or graduate with a non-law degree and then complete a conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
• Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC): After completing your academic education, you need to undertake the BPTC, which focuses on developing practical skills required for a career at the Bar.
• Pupillage: This is a mandatory training period where you shadow an experienced barrister. Pupillage is divided into two parts: the first period involves observing and assisting, while the second period allows you to take on cases under supervision.
• Call to the Bar: Once you complete your pupillage and meet the necessary requirements, you can be called to the Bar and become a practicing barrister.

What career paths are available?

As a barrister, there are various career paths you can pursue, including:

• Queen's Counsel (QC): Senior barristers can apply for the prestigious title of Queen's Counsel. QC is an honorific given to experienced and highly regarded barristers.
• Judicial role: Barristers can become judges in different courts, including the High Court, Crown Court, or even the Supreme Court.
• Academia: Some barristers choose to move into teaching law and become law professors or lecturers at universities.
• Policy and Advocacy: Barristers with expertise in specific areas of law may work for government bodies, non-profit organizations, or lobbying groups, advocating for legal reforms and influencing policy decisions.

What jobs are similar to a barrister?

• Solicitor: Solicitors also provide legal advice and represent clients, but they generally focus more on non-contentious matters, such as drafting contracts and handling legal transactions. Barristers and solicitors often collaborate on cases, with solicitors typically instructing barristers for courtroom representation.
• Legal Counsel: Legal counsels work in-house for organizations, providing legal advice and guidance on various legal matters affecting the business or organization.
• Legal Researcher: Legal researchers conduct in-depth research on legal topics, precedents, and case law to support lawyers in building their cases and preparing legal strategies. They may work for law firms, government agencies, or universities.

What made you want to become a barrister?

(Leave this question blank)

How did you get your first barrister job?

(Leave this question blank)

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a barrister?

(Leave this question blank)

Are you a barrister? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to barrister. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.