Becoming a King’s Counsel is a mark of exceptional achievement and signifies a significant milestone in a barrister’s career.
Here are 10 easy steps to becoming a King’s Counsel
1. Legal Qualification:
– 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Application Process:
– 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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 Queen’s Counsel.
10. Appointment:
– Successful candidates receive the appointment as King’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 KCs.
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.
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