What we are looking for in our pupils

Candidates for pupillage are assessed on the basis of merit. You’ll find full details in our Pupillage Selection Policy, however here is a summary of the personal qualities we are looking for:

• Proven intellectual ability is crucial.
• We’re looking for evidence of an analytical mind and the ability to develop concepts and express them clearly and persuasively, both in writing and orally.
• You should possess the complementary skills of understanding and objectivity – and know when to apply them. It’s essential that barristers are able to appreciate the challenges faced by those whom they represent.
• You should be organised.
• You must be able to think and respond under pressure.
• You need to be an excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills (and remember, communication is as much - if not more - about listening than talking).

When considering pupils for tenancy, we use a formal selection procedure during which our tenancy committee takes into account:

• two assessed pieces of written work
• two assessed advocacy exercises
• appraisals from pupil supervisors
• appraisals from other members of chambers
• written comments from other members of chambers, the senior clerk
  and solicitors for whom the pupil has done work.