How to Become a Barrister (Scales of Success Await)

If you’ve ever envisioned arguing in court and making a difference or pondered over what it takes to become a barrister, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to undertake to kickstart your career as a barrister. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The legal education and training that will pave your way.
- How to secure a position as a barrister.
So, whether you’re a law novice or a seasoned legal professional looking to specialize, stay tuned.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to become a barrister.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Steps to Become a Barrister
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Barrister
Before deciding to pursue a career as a barrister, it is important to understand the role and responsibilities associated with this profession.
Barristers are legal experts who provide specialist advice and represent their clients in court.
They are usually engaged by solicitors to represent a case in court and only become involved when advocacy before a court is needed.
Barristers can be found in different areas of law, including criminal law, commercial law, family law, and civil law among others.
They are typically required to have a deep understanding of the law, possess excellent communication and analytical skills, and have the ability to persuade.
They need to be able to take complex legal issues and explain them in simple terms for their clients.
They are also expected to maintain confidentiality and adhere to strict ethical guidelines.
It’s a demanding role, with long hours, but it can also be incredibly rewarding for those who enjoy intellectual challenge, debating, and problem-solving.
Understanding the role of a barrister will give you a clearer idea of what to expect from this career path and can help you decide if it is the right fit for you.
If you find the role appealing, the next steps would involve obtaining the necessary qualifications, gaining experience, and developing the required skills and competencies.
Step 2: Obtain Undergraduate Education
Becoming a barrister requires rigorous academic training.
The first step in this process is to obtain an undergraduate degree, typically in law or a related field.
However, it’s not uncommon for individuals to enter the legal profession with degrees in other disciplines.
If you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree in law, you’ll study topics such as contract law, constitutional law, criminal law, property law, and tort law.
You’ll learn how to interpret statutes, understand legal precedents, and develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
You’ll also have the opportunity to gain a foundational understanding of the legal system and its procedures.
If you choose to major in a different field, it’s essential to complete a law conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) after your undergraduate studies.
This course is designed to provide non-law graduates with a comprehensive understanding of legal principles.
Whether you choose to study law at the undergraduate level or complete a GDL, you’ll need to excel acadically to boost your chances of being accepted into the highly competitive field of barrister training.
Balancing challenging coursework with extracurricular activities, such as joining a law society or moot court, can help to demonstrate your commitment to and passion for the legal profession.
Step 3: Complete the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC)
The Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) is a prerequisite to become a barrister.
This is an intensive, one-year full time course that teaches you the practical skills needed in courtrooms, such as advocacy, drafting legal documents, and understanding evidence.
The course is designed to bridge the gap between the academic study of law and the professional requirements of being a practicing barrister.
Within the course, you will learn how to advise clients, how to conduct negotiations, and how to present arguments in court.
It provides hands-on experience through mock trials and assignments that simulate real-world cases, preparing you for the realities of a career at the Bar.
There are several institutions in the UK that offer the BPTC.
Ensure that the institution you choose is accredited by the Bar Standards Board.
Admission to the BPTC course is competitive and usually requires an upper second class honours degree in law or a Graduate Diploma in Law.
Remember, the BPTC is demanding both in terms of time and finances.
It’s important to be sure that a career as a barrister is right for you before embarking on this course.
It’s also worth noting that completion of the BPTC does not guarantee pupillage (the next step towards becoming a barrister), so you must be prepared to work hard and distinguish yourself from other candidates.
Step 4: Join an Inn of Court
Joining an Inn of Court is an essential step in the path to becoming a Barrister.
Inns of Court are professional associations for barristers in England and Wales, and there are four main ones: Inner Temple, Middle Temple, Lincoln’s Inn, and Gray’s Inn.
These Inns provide legal training, scholarships, and networking opportunities for their members.
Admission to an Inn of Court is required before a student can commence the vocational stage of training.
They offer ‘qualifying sessions’, which are part of the professional skills and development training required to qualify as a barrister.
These sessions may take the form of lectures, seminars, mock trials, advocacy training or dining events.
While each Inn has its unique character and advantages, all four are committed to providing high-quality education and training to aspiring barristers.
Research about each Inn’s history, culture, and scholarships available will help you make a more informed decision about which one to join.
This step is crucial, as the connections and skills you gain during your time at an Inn of Court will play an essential role in your future career as a Barrister.
Step 5: Secure a Pupillage
Securing a pupillage is a crucial step for those aspiring to become a barrister.
A pupillage is a period of practical training and is the final stage of qualification before becoming a fully-fledged barrister.
It lasts for one year and is typically split into two six-month periods known as ‘sixes’.
Your first ‘six’ is known as the ‘non-practising’ period where you will shadow an experienced barrister and learn through observation.
The second ‘six’ is the ‘practising’ period, where you will start taking on your own cases under the supervision of your pupil supervisor.
Securing a pupillage can be highly competitive, so it’s essential to start preparing as early as possible.
Be proactive about networking, improving your CV, and gaining relevant work experience.
Also, research potential pupillage providers thoroughly to ensure they align with your career ambitions and legal interests.
Remember, it’s crucial to tailor your applications to each individual chambers and demonstrate your understanding of their work, ethos, and culture.
Practice your interview skills, as many chambers use rigorous assessment processes, including interviews and written tests, to select their pupils.
Once you have secured a pupillage, you are on your way to becoming a barrister.
Use this opportunity to learn as much as you can from experienced professionals and to build your network in the legal community.
Step 6: Acquire Advocacy Experience
Gaining practical experience in advocacy is a critical step towards becoming a barrister.
This involves representing clients in court, speaking on their behalf, and presenting their case to the judge or jury.
This not only demands comprehensive knowledge of law but also exceptional communication skills, the ability to think quickly, and a deep understanding of court procedures.
You can acquire advocacy experience by taking part in mooting competitions during your law school years or through the Bar Professional Training Course.
Moots are simulated court proceedings where law students get the opportunity to represent fictional clients in a mock court.
This experience allows you to develop your advocacy skills, as well as offering a chance to network with practicing barristers and judges.
Internships at legal firms or chambers can also provide valuable advocacy experience.
Here, you can observe practicing barristers at work and potentially have the opportunity to assist them in real cases.
This will give you an insight into the day-to-day role of a barrister and help you understand the practical aspects of advocacy that are not covered in textbooks.
If possible, shadow a barrister to understand how to interact with clients and manage the challenges of court proceedings.
This can also provide a clearer picture of your career trajectory and give you a taste of the pressures and demands of the job.
Remember, every bit of practical experience strengthens your profile and sets you apart from your competition when applying for pupillage.
Step 7: Gain Specialized Knowledge
As a barrister, you will be expected to have a deep understanding of the law, and this means you should focus on a specialized area of practice.
This could be anything from criminal law to family law, or even corporate law.
The choice of specialization will typically depend on your personal interests and long-term career goals.
Specialization can come in the form of postgraduate legal studies, such as obtaining an LLM degree, or through continuous professional development courses.
These courses are usually offered by legal institutions and can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your chosen field.
In addition to formal education, practical experience in your chosen specialty is invaluable.
This could involve working on pro bono cases, assisting in legal research, or working under the guidance of a more experienced barrister.
This will help to develop your understanding of the intricacies of your specialty and your ability to effectively represent your clients.
Remember, the more knowledge and experience you have in your chosen field, the better you will be able to serve your clients and the more successful you will become as a barrister.
So, take the time to immerse yourself in your chosen specialty and continuously strive to expand your knowledge and skills.
Step 8: Obtain Tenancy in a Chambers or Become an Employed Barrister
The last step to become a fully-practicing barrister involves getting a tenancy at a Chambers or becoming an employed barrister.
A tenancy means joining a set of barristers to share costs and administrative support.
Most barristers start their career in this way.
After you’ve completed your pupillage, you may apply for a tenancy in a Chambers.
This is a competitive process and involves a selection committee reviewing your application and potential interview.
On the other hand, you can choose to be an employed barrister working in-house at organizations such as law firms, government bodies, or businesses.
As an employed barrister, your work will be more focused on the legal issues of your employer.
In both cases, it will be beneficial to start building a network of clients and legal professionals to help you establish yourself in the field.
Moreover, continuous learning and improvement is key, and joining professional associations like the Bar Council can provide you with additional resources and networking opportunities.
Remember, the journey to becoming a barrister is a challenging one, requiring dedication and resilience, but the end result is a rewarding career in the field of law.
Step 9: Develop Your Professional Network
As a barrister, creating strong professional relationships is crucial to your career success.
Your network should ideally include other barristers, solicitors, judges, and other legal professionals.
Building these relationships can provide you with potential leads for work, advice, support, and mentorship opportunities.
You should consider joining professional associations like your local Bar Association or any other related legal groups.
These associations often host networking events, continuing education seminars, and other opportunities to meet and interact with your peers.
Moreover, you should maintain a strong online presence on professional networking sites like LinkedIn, and keep your profile updated with your latest achievements, experiences, and skills.
Networking is an ongoing process, and it requires regular effort.
In addition, barristers often receive work through referrals, so maintaining strong relationships with solicitors can be particularly advantageous.
Remember, networking is not just about taking; it’s about mutual support.
Be ready to give advice, offer support, or lend your expertise when someone in your network needs it.
This builds trust and solidifies relationships.
Finally, always conduct yourself in a professional and ethical manner.
Your reputation in the legal community is a crucial aspect of your career as a barrister.
Step 10: Pursue Continuing Professional Development
Once you have established yourself as a practicing Barrister, it is important to continue developing your professional skills and knowledge.
This can be done through Continuing Professional Development (CPD), which is a requirement for all barristers to ensure they stay updated with the latest legal developments and skills necessary for their practice.
There are many ways to fulfill your CPD requirements.
Some barristers choose to attend legal seminars or conferences, where they can learn about the latest developments in their area of specialty.
Others may opt for more formal education, such as completing a master’s or doctoral degree in a specific area of law.
It’s also important to maintain your networking activities as part of your continuing professional development.
Building relationships with other legal professionals can provide opportunities for collaboration and learning.
You can also be involved in legal societies or organizations related to your field of law, which often offer seminars and courses that can count towards your CPD.
In addition to attending courses and seminars, you may also consider contributing to legal journals or publications.
Not only can this help you stay updated with the latest legal issues, but it can also help you establish yourself as an expert in your field.
Remember, the goal of CPD is not just to fulfill a requirement, but to continually improve and adapt your skills to the ever-changing legal landscape.
Step 11: Further Your Advocacy Skills
After you have become a practicing Barrister, it is important to continue honing and expanding your advocacy skills.
These skills include not only your ability to argue a case in court but also your research, writing, negotiation, and legal analysis capabilities.
You may want to specialize in a particular area of law such as criminal, family, commercial, or human rights law among others.
This specialization can involve taking advanced courses or receiving further certification in your chosen area.
In addition, joining professional organizations, such as the Bar Council or local law societies, can provide you with opportunities to learn from more experienced barristers and to network with other legal professionals.
These organizations often offer training, seminars, and workshops to help you improve your skills and stay updated with the latest legal developments.
Participating in moot court competitions can also be a great way to practice your advocacy skills.
In these mock trials, you will have the opportunity to argue fictional cases before a panel of judges, providing valuable real-life experience.
Remember that the field of law is constantly evolving, so ongoing professional development is key to maintain a successful career as a barrister.
This can include staying abreast of new laws, regulations and legal precedents, as well as developing your understanding of emerging areas of law.
The most successful barristers continually seek to improve their advocacy skills throughout their careers, which not only helps them win cases but also enhances their professional reputation and potential for career advancement.
Step 12: Consider Becoming a Queen’s Counsel (QC)
After gaining significant experience in the legal field and building a strong reputation as a barrister, you might want to consider becoming a Queen’s Counsel (QC).
Known as taking silk, this prestigious status recognizes those barristers who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill and expertise in their field.
QCs are appointed by the Queen, on the advice of the Lord Chancellor.
This process requires a rigorous and competitive selection process which involves a detailed application, several references, and an interview.
The selection is based on merit, so you need to demonstrate excellence in advocacy in the higher courts.
Becoming a QC means that you can take on more complex and high-profile cases and it can significantly increase your earning potential.
However, it also involves more responsibility and higher expectations.
Before deciding to apply for QC, it’s crucial to weigh up the advantages against the potential challenges.
Moreover, remember that becoming a QC is not the only way to progress your career.
There are other roles within the judiciary, such as becoming a judge or a legal academic, that might suit your career aspirations better.
Ultimately, the decision to seek appointment as a QC should be based on your career goals, your experience, and your readiness to take on the rigorous demands of the role.
Barrister Roles and Responsibilities
Barristers provide expert legal advice and represent their clients in court proceedings.
They usually specialize in a specific area of law, such as criminal law, family law, constitutional law, or corporate law.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Legal Advice
- Provide expert legal advice to clients on their rights and obligations.
- Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses.
- Prepare legal opinions and briefs.
Court Representation
- Represent clients in court proceedings, hearings, and tribunals.
- Present facts, evidence, and arguments in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner.
- Cross-examine witnesses and challenge opposing counsel’s arguments.
Case Preparation
- Research case law, legal precedents, and statutory interpretations.
- Prepare case strategies and arguments.
- Prepare and draft legal documents such as contracts, deeds, and wills.
Legal Consultation
- Consult with clients to ascertain the details of their case.
- Explain legal procedures and potential outcomes to clients.
- Advise clients on possible legal solutions and strategies.
Negotiation and Mediation
- Negotiate settlements and agreements on behalf of clients.
- Act as a mediator in disputes and strive for an out-of-court settlement, when possible.
Professional Development
- Stay updated with changes in laws and legal precedents.
- Attend legal education courses and workshops.
Advocacy
- Advocate for clients’ interests and rights.
- Promote access to justice and legal services.
Ethics and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with legal ethics and professional conduct.
- Maintain client confidentiality and privilege.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with clients, court personnel, and other legal professionals.
- Prepare and present clear, concise, and persuasive oral and written communications.
What Does a Barrister Do?
Barristers are specialized legal professionals who typically work in courtrooms, law offices or chambers.
They represent individuals, organizations, or the government in legal proceedings and disputes.
They provide expert legal advice to clients, conduct research and analysis of legal issues, and interpret laws, rulings, and regulations.
Barristers also draft legal documents, develop legal strategies, and argue cases in court.
They present facts in writing and verbally to their clients or others and argue on their behalf.
They are involved in various stages of court cases, from the initial briefing by a solicitor, to appearing in court to argue the case, right through to negotiating settlements.
Barristers often specialize in specific areas of law, such as criminal law, commercial law, or family law, and possess a high level of understanding of the legal system and its procedures.
They also have a responsibility to the court to act with integrity and maintain a high standard of professional conduct at all times.
Essential Barrister Skills
- Advocacy: Barristers must effectively argue a client’s position in court, using persuasive techniques to convince a judge or jury. This requires a keen understanding of the law, strong communication skills, and the ability to strategize.
- Legal Research: Barristers need to research and understand the intricacies of law and legal precedent. This requires excellent research skills, a deep understanding of legal databases, and the ability to apply findings to their cases.
- Writing Skills: Barristers must frequently draft complex legal documents, including contracts, pleadings, and appeals. Clear, precise, and persuasive writing skills are essential for conveying arguments and meeting legal requirements.
- Client Care: A barrister must build trust with their clients, understanding their needs, and conveying complex legal information in an understandable way. Good client care also includes managing expectations and handling sensitive situations.
- Interpersonal Skills: Barristers regularly interact with clients, judges, solicitors, and other barristers. Effective communication, professionalism, and the ability to build relationships are crucial for success.
- Analysis and Problem Solving: Barristers must be able to assess complex legal issues, identify the key points, and develop an effective strategy. This requires strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.
- Public Speaking: A significant part of a barrister’s role is presenting arguments in court. Strong public speaking skills, including clarity, confidence, and the ability to engage an audience, are vital.
- Negotiation: Barristers often need to negotiate settlements on behalf of their clients. This requires an understanding of negotiation tactics, the ability to compromise and the skill to achieve the best outcome for the client.
- Attention to Detail: Whether drafting legal documents or reviewing evidence, a barrister must have a keen eye for detail to identify potential issues, errors, or useful pieces of information.
- Resilience: The legal profession can be stressful, with high stakes and heavy workloads. Barristers need to be resilient, maintaining their performance under pressure, and balancing their personal and professional lives.
- Time Management: Barristers often juggle multiple cases at once, all with different deadlines and requirements. Good time management and organization skills are necessary to manage this workload effectively.
- Integrity: Barristers must uphold the highest ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality, acting honestly, and serving the interests of justice. This integrity is key to their professional reputation and the trust placed in them by clients and the court.
- Continual Learning: Law is a constantly evolving field. Barristers must commit to lifelong learning, staying updated with changes in law, new rulings, and emerging legal issues.
Barrister Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Pupil Barrister
The journey typically begins as a Pupil Barrister.
During this stage, you are akin to a sponge, absorbing legal knowledge and gaining practical courtroom experience under the tutelage of a Pupil Supervisor.
Your responsibilities may include drafting legal documents, conducting research, and observing court proceedings.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest laws, regulations, and legal precedents.
- Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from your Pupil Supervisor or other senior colleagues.
- Active Participation: Show enthusiasm and take ownership of your assigned tasks.
The Ascent: Junior Barrister
As you gain experience and confidence, you transition into the role of a Junior Barrister.
You’ll handle more cases independently, advocate in court, and become an integral part of the legal team.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- Advocacy Skills: Sharpen your courtroom skills by practicing effective communication and persuasive argumentation.
- Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with your instructing solicitor, clients, and other legal professionals.
- Quality of Work: Focus on preparing comprehensive legal documents and submissions that demonstrate your diligence and attention to detail.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Barrister
The next step in your career is the Senior Barrister position.
At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership within the legal community.
You may take on high-profile cases, mentor junior barristers, and make significant contributions to the development of the law.
To thrive as a Senior Barrister:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help junior barristers develop their skills and understanding of the law.
- Strategic Thinking: Consider the broader implications of your cases and strive to influence the development of the law.
- Leadership: Lead by example and inspire others with your work ethic and dedication to justice.
Beyond the Horizon: Queen’s Counsel and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may aspire to become a Queen’s Counsel (QC), a highly esteemed role within the legal profession.
Becoming a QC involves greater responsibilities, influence, and recognition.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Professional Reputation: Build a strong reputation by demonstrating excellence in advocacy and legal knowledge.
- Leadership: Develop strong leadership skills to guide less experienced barristers and influence the legal profession.
- Innovation: Continue to innovate in your legal arguments and strategies to stay at the forefront of the profession.
Pinnacle of Success: Judge or Legal Scholar
You may reach roles like Judge or esteemed Legal Scholar at the highest peaks of the barrister career ladder.
In these roles, you’ll be responsible for shaping the interpretation and development of the law, making critical judicial decisions, and contributing to legal academia.
Barrister Salary
Entry-Level Barrister
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $70,000 per year
- Entry-level barristers typically have 0-2 years of experience and have recently completed their pupillage or equivalent training period. They often assist more experienced barristers with case preparation and research.
Mid-Level Barrister
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $120,000 per year
- Mid-level barristers have 2-5 years of experience and often start handling more complex cases independently. They are expected to build their reputation and clientele during this phase.
Senior Barrister
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $200,000 per year
- Senior barristers possess 5+ years of experience. They usually handle high profile and complex cases, often leading a team of junior barristers and legal assistants.
Queen’s Counsel/ King’s Counsel
- Median Salary: $200,000 – $500,000+ per year
- This role represents the pinnacle of a barrister’s career. Known as Queen’s Counsel (or King’s Counsel when the reigning monarch is male), they are selected based on their extensive legal expertise and reputation in the field. They are often involved in high-stakes litigation and policy formulation.
Barrister Judge
- Median Salary: $130,000 – $250,000+ per year
- Some barristers advance their careers by becoming judges. They must have a strong reputation and extensive experience in the legal field. As judges, they oversee court proceedings and make decisions that can have significant impacts on law and society.
Barrister Work Environment
Barristers typically operate within the legal industry, often employed by law firms, private practices, or the government.
They also spend a significant portion of their time in courtrooms, presenting cases and representing their clients.
The work schedule of a barrister can be quite demanding, with long hours and high-stress situations being common.
A barrister needs to be prepared for their work-life balance to be skewed towards work, particularly when trials are ongoing.
Many barristers work in chambers, which are shared workspaces, where they can share resources and administrative costs with other barristers.
After establishing a solid reputation and client base, a barrister might choose to start their own practice or become a Queen’s Counsel, which is a senior barrister recognized for their high competence in the field.
FAQs About Becoming a Barrister
What is needed to become a barrister?
Becoming a barrister requires a strong academic background, particularly in law.
If you do not have a law degree, you will need to complete a conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
Following this, you must complete the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), which provides practical training for the Bar.
You will then need to secure a one-year pupillage in a barristers’ chambers.
Key skills needed include excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and analytical thinking.
How long does it take to become a barrister?
The length of time it takes to become a barrister can vary, but typically it takes a minimum of five years of full-time study and training.
This includes a three-year law degree, one year for the BPTC, and a one-year pupillage.
If you need to take the GDL conversion course, this can add an additional year to your timeline.
Can I become a barrister without a law degree?
Yes, it is possible to become a barrister without a law degree.
If your undergraduate degree is in a different subject, you can take a conversion course known as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), which equips you with the necessary legal knowledge.
After this, you would proceed to the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) and pupillage like any other aspiring barrister.
Is being a barrister a stressful job?
Being a barrister can be stressful due to the high-stakes nature of the work and the long hours often required.
Barristers often handle complex legal cases and may need to work under tight deadlines.
However, many barristers also find their work to be intellectually stimulating and rewarding, particularly when they are able to help their clients achieve a positive outcome.
What are the prospects for barristers in the next decade?
The prospects for barristers in the next decade are generally positive.
There will always be a need for legal professionals, particularly those who specialize in areas of law that are in high demand, such as commercial law, family law, and human rights law.
However, competition for pupillages and tenancies in barristers’ chambers can be intense, so aspiring barristers will need to distinguish themselves through excellent academic performance, practical experience, and networking.
Conclusion
And so, the gavel drops.
The decision to pursue a career as a barrister is not a light one to make, but it is undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the proper skills, education, and tenacity, you are well on your way to making a significant impact in the field of law.
Remember, the journey may be strenuous, but the possibilities are boundless. Your legal prowess could lead to the next landmark case that transforms society’s understanding of justice.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in legal study. Network with other legal professionals. And above all, never cease advocating.
Because the world is awaiting your legal expertise.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or enhancing your career as a barrister, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to aid you in effectively navigating your career path.
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