Barristers

Question 1

Barristers

Answer 1

• they all work independently and are collectively referred to as ‘the Bar’
• must be members of one of the four ‘Inns of Court’ in London
• degree based, all candidates must pass the Bar Professional Training Course
• a 12 month period of pupillage follows (on the job training). after 6 months shadowing a qualified barrister they can appear in court and conduct their own cases

Question 2

Work of a barrister

Answer 2

• usually work from a set of chambers, where they share offices with 10-15 others
• most advocate in court, although some are company/tax specialists that rarely appear in court
• can either be directly approached by a client or contacted by a solicitor on behalf of a client

Question 3

Cab rank rule

Answer 3

• a barrister cant turn down a case if they are free and it if a area of law that they can deal with, however they can turn it down if approached directly by a client and if the case requires further investigation

Question 4

Regulatory Bodies

Answer 4

• The General Council of the Bar
• Bar Standards Board

Question 5

The General Council of the Bar

Answer 5

• represents the interests of the profession as a whole, acts as a sort of trade union
• promotes fair access to justice for all, equality and diversity, as well as business opportunities at home and abroad

Question 6

Bar Standards Board

Answer 6

• Regulates professional standards
• investigates alleged breeches in codes of conduct
• can impose sanctions, including striking off, suspending/fining barristers

Question 7

King’s Counsel

Answer 7

• must have 10 yrs experience as a barrister/solicitor
• appointment as KC is referred to as ‘taking silk’
• applications are considered by an independent selection panel
• candidates must pay high fees, be interviewed and then be recommended to the Lord Chancellor for appointment