Barristers are specialist legal advisers and courtroom advocates in the United Kingdom. They are usually hired by solicitors to represent clients in court, provide expert legal opinions, and draft legal documents. Barristers often work independently or as part of chambers, focusing on advocacy and presenting cases before judges and juries. The role requires strong analytical skills, the ability to argue persuasively, and a deep understanding of the law. Many barristers specialise in areas such as criminal law, family law, commercial law, or human rights. Becoming a barrister involves rigorous academic study and practical training, including gaining membership to one of the Inns of Court.
In the UK, barristers earn between £25,000 and £300,000 per year, with most newly qualified barristers starting around £40,000 to £70,000.
There are approximately 17,000 practising barristers in England and Wales as of 2023.
It typically takes at least five years to qualify as a barrister: three years for a law degree (or a conversion course), one year Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), and one year of pupillage.
A barrister who specialises in criminal law, representing clients in criminal courts and providing expert legal advice on criminal matters.
A barrister who focuses on family law cases, such as divorce, child custody, and adoption, representing clients in family courts.
A barrister who works with businesses and organisations, advising on commercial disputes and representing clients in business-related legal proceedings.
Achieve strong GCSEs and A-levels, particularly in subjects like English, History, or Politics.
Most aspiring barristers take academic A-levels that develop analytical and communication skills. Law is not a compulsory A-level, but it can be helpful. Good grades are essential for university admission.
Obtain an undergraduate law degree (LLB) or a degree in another subject followed by a conversion course such as the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
If you study law at university, ensure it is a qualifying law degree. If you have a non-law degree, you must complete the GDL to cover core legal principles. This is a vital foundation for aspiring barristers.
Apply to and join one of the four Inns of Court in England and Wales.
The Inns of Court are professional associations for barristers. They offer support, training, and scholarships. You must join an Inn before starting the Bar course.
Undertake the Bar Training Course, previously known as the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC).
The Bar Course covers advocacy, drafting, ethics, and more. Entry is competitive, and you must pass the Bar Course Aptitude Test (BCAT) before enrolling. The course typically lasts one year full-time.
Secure a pupillage, which is a year-long apprenticeship in a barristers’ chambers.
Pupillage is split into two parts: the non-practising six months and the practising six months. You will gain hands-on experience under the supervision of an experienced barrister. Competition for pupillage is intense, so strong academic and extracurricular achievements are important.
Finish your pupillage and apply for tenancy to become a fully qualified barrister.
After successful completion of pupillage, you may be offered tenancy in chambers, allowing you to practise as a self-employed barrister. Alternatively, you can seek employed positions or further training if required.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Barrister. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through a university course or by working towards this role.
You could do a degree in law to become a barrister. You also have the option to do a degree in any subject and complete a Graduate Diploma in Law afterwards.
Once you've graduated, you need to complete:
To get into some universities you'll need to pass the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT).
You'll usually need:
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.
If you're a solicitor, you can apply to become a barrister if you get approval from the Bar Standards Board and sit a Bar Transfer Test.
You could join the Bar Council for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
You can find out more about becoming a barrister from:
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