Five top tips for making the most of your mini-pupillage

Once you’ve secured an offer of mini-pupillage, or work experience, from a barristers’ chambers, how do you set about making the most of it? We asked successful barristers to look back to their own experiences of mini-pupillage and give some inside views on how to create a good impression.

Be enthusiastic during your mini-pupillage

You should remain enthusiastic regardless of the nature of the experience. James Segan, a tenant at Blackstone Chambers who undertook mini-pupillage at his set before being taken on as a pupil, says, ‘You may not find every court visit riveting (and the barrister you are shadowing probably agres with you) but keenness makes a good impression.'

Offer to help out while doing legal work experience

James adds, 'Remember to offer to help: you may not think you have a lot to offer, but you are wrong. An extra pair of hands can be hugely helpful and will ensure that you are remembered.’

Don't worry if you have limited legal knowledge

You will not be expected to be expert, but ideally, you should show your potential, and be willing to work hard and to learn. James did his mini-pupillage at the end of his law conversion course and found that he was on a steep learning curve, but his supervisors were extremely helpful.

Ruth Bala, a classics graduate, undertook mini-pupillage at a local government and housing set before starting her law conversion course. ‘I needed to know what I might be letting myself in for. I came with foggy ideas of what to expect and no knowledge whatsoever of landlord and tenant law.’

She spent a week shadowing a junior barrister. ‘On arrival I was presented with several colossal ring-binders on one case and was asked to draft some arguments. That was quite daunting but I dived in and saw that most could be skimmed over and the relevant parts quickly weeded out. Although I had never studied law, the junior barristers were keen to explain the underlying principles.’

Be respectful to your legal colleagues

Ruth found that the atmosphere in chambers was friendly and helpful. ‘Even the senior members were eager to impart their wisdom and not nearly so stuffy as reputed. It is probably wise, however, to maintain a certain degree of formality and respect.’

You may be invited to lunch or drinks, either just with your mini-pupillage supervisor or with other members of chambers too. It’s important for a barrister to be personable, articulate and good at establishing relationships, so don’t be tongue-tied, but don’t be overbearing either; demonstrate your intelligence and charm.

Take notes on your mini-pupillage

Ruth Paley, a tenant at 23 Essex Street who undertook a one-week mini-pupillage at a criminal law set, recommends taking a notebook along and writing down what happens during court hearings and conferences. ‘Note the judge, court, charge, legal points, style of advocacy and the result. This will be extremely useful when it comes to preparing for pupillage applications and interviews.’