James Hollis

Name: James Hollis
Chambers: Pump Court Tax Chambers
Position: pupil
University: University of Oxford
Subject: politics, philosophy and economics
Graduated: 2002

Why I chose a career as a tax law barrister

While at Oxford, I considered undertaking postgraduate research in political history. I decided, however, that getting qualified into a profession was my first priority. I was attracted to tax law through my own research: it sits between public and commercial law and concerns the relationship between citizen and state.

Working life as a tax law barrister

My working hours are very civilised by London standards: 9.00 am until 6.00 pm or 6.30 pm; occasionally later if a big hearing is pending. I tend to do a couple of hours after supper as well and catch up on reading at home at the weekend.

My reponsibilities include assisting my pupil supervisor with current work, researching specific points for senior members of chambers, reading around the subject and attending courses and conferences. I also write articles for journals, help others update their books and undertake a range of administrative tasks.

Tax barristers tend to be relatively deskbound; however, for the past few weeks I have been in court with my pupil supervisor almost every day. Chambers coffee is hosted at 11.00 am each morning, which provides a good opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas and discussion of current issues.

Chambers occupies two late-17th century townhouses at the edge of Gray’s Inn. Pupils do not sit in their pupil supervisors’ rooms; they are based in the library.

In an exciting week I might...

... have a trip to the House of Lords: it’s exciting to watch law being made at the highest level. 

My most unforgettable moment...

... was dropping a glass of champagne in front of the head of chambers in my first week – thank heavens it bounced!