Barristers tell all: what to expect from mini-pupillage

Work experience in barristers’ chambers, known as mini-pupillage, is an essential introduction to the legal profession and will form a key part of your applications to be taken on as a trainee barrister, or pupil. So, what should you expect? You could be passed a number of heavy files and asked to draft some arguments. You might find yourself witnessing the drama of a cross-examination in court. You’ll certainly have close contact with practising barristers, and a chance to observe them at work.

One-to-one time with barristers

Kathleen Donnelly, a tenant at Henderson Chambers, completed four mini-pupillages at London sets practising civil and commercial law. ‘Most lasted a few days and the normal procedure was for me to be assigned to one barrister and sit with him or her throughout,’ she says. ‘I was often given papers to read and discuss, and was sometimes asked to attempt the answer myself. On some days I went along to court to observe other members of chambers in cases of particular interest.’

She found that observing the law in action was an invaluable experience. ‘It was great to get involved in real cases and discover how pragmatic matters, such as the solvency of a defendant, can influence the shape of proceedings.’

Spending time in court during mini-pupillage

Ruth Paley, a tenant at 23 Essex Street who undertook a mini-pupillage in criminal law, was initially assigned to a barrister who was about to defend a two-day trial. ‘I went to a conference with the client, met the prosecutor and watched as a jury was sworn in,’ she says. ‘I looked on as the barrister exposed gaps in witnesses’ evidence in cross-examination and I listened to legal arguments about the admissibility of a crucial piece of evidence. After court the barrister patiently answered my questions and explained some of the basic facts about life at the criminal bar. During the rest of the week I saw a sentence, a plea and directions hearing, and a magistrates’ court trial.’

Ruth Bala, a classics graduate who completed a mini-pupillage at Arden Chambers, a housing and local government set, spent a day in the Royal Courts of Justice in the Strand. ‘Sitting in an intimate courtroom, watching an accomplished barrister savagely cross-examining a witness, can make for awesome and inspirational viewing.’

Getting a feel for life in chambers

Work experience is always a two-way process. As well as trying to make the right impression during mini-pupillage, you will form your own views about the chambers where you are based.

Richard O’Brien, a tenant at 4 New Square, says, ‘Doing a mini-pupillage is not just about CV points! I got a good feel for the work that the set does and the people who work there: you can learn a lot about a set and whether you’d want to be a tenant there in just a few days.’