Pupillage structure

Introduction

At 2KBW our aim is to give our pupils the best possible training for the start of their careers with Chambers.

Our 2KBW pupils will have the opportunity to work on a whole host of cases covering a wide variety of work, together with some of our leading practitioners in their fields. Our pupils with work closely with their Supervisor/s as well as numerous other members of Chambers, ensuring a wide range of experience across the board.

All pupils are encouraged to discover the work that interests them most, pursue their knowledge and individual practices in those fields whilst benefitting from the continuing support of Chambers as a whole.

The structure of the pupillage year

Each pupil, by personal selection of our Pupillage Committee, will be individually assigned to one pupil supervisor for each six-month period (TBC).  During this time, each pupil should also expect to liaise with and work for other members of Chambers, as and when required and upon permission from your supervisor.

The first six months (your ‘First Six’) will entail ‘shadowing’ your supervisor, along with any other designated member of Chambers, to observe and at times assist with the cases that your barrister will be conducting.  This work will invariably include daily attendance at Court as well as assisting with legal research and at time assistance with drafting.

The second six months (your ‘Second Six’) will begin your training ‘on your feet’ – ie conducting your own cases.  During this period you will have the support of both your designated supervisor and access to all members of Chambers as well as the clerks’ support and that of the Pupillage Committee throughout. You can expect to be conducting your own hearings and trials in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts as well as the Family / County Courts if that is the pupillage you have secured.

Training

In addition to the First and Second Six training, you can expect Chambers to provide tailored training with feedback throughout your pupillage period with us.  You are expected to complete this.

The training will invariably comprise of both drafting and advocacy exercises, sometimes separately and at other times as part of a joint training exercise. These will always be overseen and adjudicated by experienced members of Chambers and are there in an effort to assist and promote your performance and success as an advocate and barrister.

Other

Your supervisors, members of Chambers and clerking team are always there to help.  The often challenging aspects of being a self-employed practitioner at the Bar can seem daunting.  2KBW is set up to provide continuing support in every aspect, from first trial, Chambers relationships, accounting, financial management and everything inbetween.

Any queries or questions on 2KBW’s pupillage scheme should be directed to the Pupillage Committee via our Chambers Manager: Hannah Wright – hannah@2kbw.com