The Path to Becoming King’s Counsel
Here is an overview of the stages to adding the coveted KC to your name.
Legal Qualification of a King’s Counsel
– To become a King’s Counsel you must advance through tertiary education, obtaining a qualifying law degree (LLB) or a degree in a non-law subject followed by the Common Professional Examination (CPE) or Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
– Fully complete and qualify through the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at a Bar Standards Board (BSB) approved institution.
Note: The BPTC is a rigorous vocational course that focuses on developing essential skills for the field of law in the united kingdom, skills are taught such as advocacy, drafting, and legal research.
Pupillage (Training)
– Apply for pupillage positions at barristers’ chambers. Pupillage involves working closely with experienced barristers and gaining practical experience in various aspects of the legal profession.
– During the first six months (known as the “non-practicing” period), the pupil assists their supervisor with legal research, case preparation, and court attendance.
– The second six months (the “practicing” period) allows the pupil to take on their own cases under supervision.
Call to the Bar
– After completing pupillage, apply for “tenancy” at a barristers’ chambers, seeking to become a full-fledged barrister.
– Upon approval by the pupillage supervisor and the Bar Standards Board, the candidate is called to the Bar.
Gain Experience
– Specialize in a particular area of law. This specialization often involves handling a range of cases within that field, gradually building expertise.
– Establish a professional network by working with solicitors, clients, and other barristers. Positive relationships and successful case outcomes contribute to a barrister’s reputation.
Build Reputation
– Act as an advocate in various courts, presenting cases and demonstrating legal prowess.
– Contribute to legal scholarship through publications, conferences, and lectures.
– Receive recognition for notable achievements, such as landmark cases or contributions to legal reforms.
Application Process of the King’s Counsel
– Monitor announcements from the King’s Counsel Appointments (QCA) office regarding the opening of the application period.
– Compile evidence of significant achievements, including details of cases, judgments, and testimonials from clients and peers.
– The application process may include detailed forms, and applicants are expected to showcase the breadth and depth of their legal expertise.
Submit Application
– Craft a compelling application that includes comprehensive details of legal achievements, contributions to the legal field, and examples of notable cases.
– Include supporting documents, such as judgments, to substantiate the claims made in the application.
Assessment
– The King’s Counsel Selection Panel thoroughly reviews each application, assessing the candidate’s contributions to the law, ethical considerations, and overall impact on the legal profession.
– The assessment involves a detailed examination of the candidate’s advocacy skills, legal knowledge, and professional conduct.
Interview
– Shortlisted candidates undergo an interview where they may face questions about their legal practice, ethical considerations, and commitment to the profession.
– The interview allows the panel to assess the candidate’s suitability for the prestigious role of King’s Counsel.
Appointment of King’s Counsel
– Successful candidates receive the appointment as Queen’s Counsel. The appointment is made by the King on the advice of the Lord Chancellor.
– King’s Counsel is formally appointed during a ceremony known as “taking silk,” symbolizing the silk gown worn by QCs.
It’s crucial to understand that the process is highly competitive, and candidates are evaluated based on a combination of legal expertise, advocacy skills, ethical conduct, and contributions to the legal field. Becoming a King’s Counsel is a mark of exceptional achievement and signifies a significant milestone in a barrister’s career.
The Law Society of the United Kingdom has written a FAR more detailed application process on how to become a King’s Counsel.
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