Michael J Beloff QC, barrister, Blackstone Chambers

I had no pedigree in the law except for a grandfather who was a member of the Imperial Russian Bar (not exactly inner circle for the English legal establishment). However, I followed my parents’ advice about a career and learned, if nothing else, that one’s parents are not always wrong. I had always enjoyed public speaking and had the advantage of three superstar teachers when I switched from history to law.

Best bits of a job as a barrister

The most appealing aspects of a career at the Bar are the independence (if you are a slave, you are at least your own slave), the variety (undoing the red or white tape around a new set of papers with only the slightest, if any, inkling of what it encloses, is still a memorable experience even after over a quarter of a century as a QC), the pleasure of vigorous forensic battle with gifted opponents, and the excitement of being not infrequently behind yesterday’s headlines and sometimes in tomorrow’s.

Advice for students considering a career at the Bar

Talent and commitment are the indispensable requirements for success. The Bar is not a profession in which half measures will suffice. Pursue a career as a barrister not for the money (the rewards can be great but are unevenly distributed), not for a life of ease (because it is challenging and tests stamina as much as intellect), but – if it be the case – because you wouldn’t seriously want to do anything else: commitment is all for you and for your clients. And remember that the honourable and fearless advocate makes a vital contribution to the rule of law. They also serve who only stand and speak.