Barrister
Barristers represent clients and their solicitors in court, at tribunals and in legal disputes. They also give expert legal advice on particular points of law.
Also known as: Advocate
- Starter salary£24,000 a year
- Experienced£250,000 a year
- Typical hours40 to 48 a week
What you'll do
As a barrister, you could:
- meet with solicitors and their clients to discuss cases
- research the law and cases similar to the one you're working on
- read witness statements and reports
- offer legal advice and expert opinion
- represent clients in court and other legal settings
- negotiate dispute settlements out of court
- prepare cases, legal arguments and questioning strategies
- cross-examine witnesses and present cases to the judge and jury
Working environment
You could work in a court, at chambers or in an office.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- excellent verbal communication skills
- active listening skills
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- persuading skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a barrister
You can get into this job through;
- a university course
- by working towards this role
University
You could do a degree in law to become a barrister. You also have the option to do a degree in any subject, then complete a Graduate Diploma in Law conversion course afterwards.
Once you've graduated, you need to take further training to complete:
- the Bar training course which takes one year, if done full time
- a year of practical training called a pupillage
You have to apply to join one of the four Inns of Court in order to do your training. Each Inn has its own entry requirements and application process.
Applications must be made at least 12 weeks before starting the Bar training course.
Once you have successfully completed your training, you'll be called to the Bar to continue your passage to becoming a barrister.
To get into some universities you'll need to pass the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT).
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
Work
You could start your career by working in a law firm or the law department of an organisation.
With support from your employer, you could complete a qualification like the Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives . You would then do further training to become a barrister.
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass background checks
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- work in the law department of an organisation
- manage a team of legal staff
- apply to become a King's Counsel (KC)
- become a judge
Self employment is common, so career prospects will depend on success in cases, your skills and how you establish your reputation.
You could specialise in a particular area of law, for instance:
- criminal law
- environmental law
- human rights
- commercial and contract law
Professional and industry bodies
You can join The Bar Council for professional development opportunities, access to support and to build your network of contacts.
Guides for this industry
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