Jonathan Clay, barrister, 2–3 Gray's Inn Square

I left school at 16 after a disastrous secondary education, worked in industry, then went to a technical college to do my A levels. My first undergraduate degree was in science, after which I worked as a farm labourer, then set up a car repair workshop. I went back to university to train as a teacher and taught physics for four years in an inner London comprehensive before leaving to take up a post in local government. While working there I studied law part time in the evening. When I got my LLB I decided to leave work to take the Bar vocational course, finally being called to the Bar in 1990 at the age of 37.

From criminal law to planning and administrative law

My early years as a barrister were dominated by criminal law but I slowly moved into planning law and administrative law. I also did much pro bono work for the Free Representation Unit – mainly employment tribunals – and developed a practice in that sphere. However, I still enjoy defending in criminal cases where they impinge on planning law, such as offences concerning listed buildings.

Highs and lows working as a barrister

I love the work – it is varied, exciting (sometimes quite scary), and often great fun. I find it a constant challenge, although it can be extremely stressful at times. There is a great camaraderie at the Bar, and barristers are often witty, funny and interesting people to know. It does have its downsides too: there are times when you lose a case that you feel you should not have done – that’s miserable – and there is no means of re-running if you make a mistake. However, there is euphoria on a great win and, although preparation is all, it is the advocacy that is my greatest passion. I would advise anyone who thinks they would enjoy advocacy to go to the Bar.