Emily L.
About me
| Emily L. | |
| Law | |
| Law | |
| Undergraduate | |
| James | |
| 2013 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Barrister | |
| Self-employed | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Legal services | |
| Small business (0-49 employees) | |
| 2018 |
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A day in the life of a Barrister in the United Kingdom
This is a career for people who thrive when they are being challenged. It's a constant, ever-changing, relentless challenge. It's brilliant and terrifying all tied up in a bow.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I am a self-employed barrister in a common law chambers in Southampton.
What do you do?
My areas of practice are General Crime, Property (Landlord and Tenant), Employment, Planning and General Civil.
As a barrister I represent clients at court on both sides (i.e. prosecuting and defending) in a wide range of criminal and civil matters, and provide written advice to clients, particularly to professional clients such as solicitors.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
Law is a very competitive area and I did not know what I wanted to do after I graduated; I was not lucky enough to be set on a career path from an early age. I took the first job I could get as a paralegal in a solicitor's firm but realised it wasn't for me. Unexpectedly, I fell into work in the charity sector working with children and people with mental health problems. I decided to take the BPTC part-time alongside full time employment, but continued working in the charity sector until I was lucky enough to secure pupillage.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No
Describe your most memorable day at work
Every day at work is memorable for me; every day is completely different. I am privileged to represent people on what can be the worst day of their lives, and even the most trivial matter can become life changing.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
I think it would be quicker to list the things that aren't challenging about my job. This is a career for people who thrive when they are being challenged. It's a constant, ever-changing, relentless challenge. It's brilliant and terrifying all tied up in a bow. Self-care is important; you are on your own, making decisions in your own. It's important to have a support system.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I did gymnastics at university. I'm not sure the skills were transferable but I am still close to the people I met and I can't stress enough how important it is to have fun at university and widen your social horizons. It's all about life experience and being exposed to new, fun, interesting people.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Be open minded and don't be in a rush. Some careers work better with some life experience; so take the time to explore your options and things you're good at.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Anything about alternative careers in law, alternative routes, financial plans, advice with studies, work experience, life at the Bar, life in the third sector etc.
Next steps...
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