Barrister.

About the Role

Barristers are specialist legal advisers and courtroom advocates. They are independent, objective and trained to advise clients on the strengths and weaknesses of their case. They have specialist knowledge and experience in and out of court, which can make a substantial difference to the outcome of a case.

A limited number of senior barristers receive "silk" — becoming King's Counsel (KC) — as a mark of outstanding ability. They are normally instructed in very serious or complex cases. Most senior judges have previously practised as KCs.

Barristers are self-employed, individual practitioners who may work as a sole practitioner or, more commonly, in groups of offices known as chambers.

Routes to Qualification

1. 1

   Academic stage – a qualifying law degree (min 2:2) or a non-law degree plus a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL).

2. 2

   Join one of the four Inns of Court (Gray's Inn, Inner Temple, Lincoln's Inn, Middle Temple) — at least 12 weeks before starting the Bar Course.

3. 3

   Vocational stage – the Bar Course (one year full-time), plus completing qualifying sessions with your Inn.

4. 4

   Called to the Bar by your Inn.

5. 5

   Pupillage – one year of work-based training at barristers' chambers, split into a non-practising first six months and a practising second six months.

6. 6

   Obtain tenancy in chambers as a self-employed barrister, or go into practice as an employed barrister.

Worth watching: A Level 7 barrister apprenticeship standard was approved in December 2024 but is not yet live — an exciting alternative route on the horizon.