So, You Have Chosen to Study Law – What Next?

On the 1st of October 2024, I had the distinct pleasure of delivering a talk via Zoom to the law students of Anglia Ruskin University. It was truly a privilege to engage with such bright, promising minds—the next generation of legal professionals. Their enthusiasm and curiosity during the Q&A session were remarkable, and I hope the insights shared provided valuable guidance as they embark on their respective legal journeys.

As promised, I have published my talk on LinkedIn for future reference, leaving out only the impromptu jokes and the Labi Siffre quote from the song "Something Inside So Strong." However, I cannot resist sharing the powerful line that resonated with many—especially those from underprivileged backgrounds and ethnic minorities—and which has become my personal motto: “Brothers and sisters, when they say you’re not good enough, look them in the eye and say, ‘I AM GOING TO DO IT ANYWAY.’”

A special thanks to Anita Virik , Tameka Green , Paddy, and the other lecturers for graciously inviting me to deliver this talk. It was an honour to connect with your students, and I look forward to seeing the great things they will achieve.

So, You Have Chosen to Study Law – What Next?

"Congratulations! Deciding to study law is a significant step that opens the door to a dynamic and rewarding profession. But now that you've made this choice, the big question is: What comes next? Where will your legal studies take you, and how can you turn your passion for law into a successful career?

Let’s break down some of the key aspects of what lies ahead, particularly if you’re considering becoming a barrister, solicitor, or exploring alternative legal careers in the UK.

1. Understanding the Difference Between Barristers and Solicitors

First, it’s essential to understand the difference between these two distinct but closely related roles within the legal profession.

• Solicitors typically work in law firms or in-house legal departments, providing clients with legal advice, drafting documents, and managing cases. They often specialise in areas such as family law, immigration, criminal law, corporate law, or real estate. A solicitor tends to have direct contact with clients and may represent them in lower courts. In the UK, solicitors can also gain rights of audience to appear in higher courts.
• Barristers, on the other hand, are generally specialists in advocacy and litigation. They are usually called upon by solicitors to represent clients in higher courts and offer expert opinions on complex legal matters. Barristers are self-employed, work independently, and often operate out of chambers alongside other barristers. Their role is to present cases in court, cross-examine witnesses, and argue points of law before a judge or jury.

Both career paths are fulfilling but require different skill sets. So, as you move forward, think about whether you prefer the client-facing, advisory role of a solicitor or the court-focused, advocacy-driven life of a barrister.

2. The Path to Becoming a Solicitor

If you’re inclined towards becoming a solicitor, here’s what the path looks like:

• Law Degree or Conversion Course: If you’ve opted for a law degree, that’s your starting point. If not, you’ll need to take a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to convert your non-law degree.
• Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE): The SQE is now the mandatory route for all aspiring solicitors. It consists of two stages: SQE1, which tests legal knowledge, and SQE2, which focuses on practical legal skills.
• Qualifying Work Experience (QWE): You will also need to complete at least two years of qualifying work experience, which can be gained through traditional training contracts, legal placements, or even volunteering in legal roles.

Once you’ve completed the SQE and the required work experience, you can apply to be admitted as a solicitor and start practising.

3. The Path to Becoming a Barrister

For those with a passion for advocacy and court appearances, the route to becoming a barrister is distinct and involves several key stages:

• Law Degree or GDL: As with solicitors, you’ll start with either a law degree or a conversion course (GDL). Achieving a 2:1 is often preferred to be competitive.
• Bar Course: After your academic training, you must complete the Bar Training Course (BTC). This is where you’ll develop key skills in advocacy, drafting, and legal ethics.
• Call to the Bar: Following the BTC and completing your qualifying sessions—which often include attending formal dinners at your Inns of Court (Lincolns Inn, Inner or Middle Temple and Gray’s Inn)—you will be called to the Bar. This ceremony formally allows you to present yourself as a barrister. Once called, you can refer to yourself as a non-practising barrister.
• Pupillage: After being called to the Bar, aspiring barristers must undertake a pupillage, which is a one-year period of practical training under the supervision of an experienced barrister called Pupil Supervisor. The pupillage is divided into two halves: the first six months involve observing and learning from your supervisor, while the second six months allow you to handle your own cases.

Once you’ve completed pupillage, you are fully qualified and able to practise independently as a barrister, out of chambers alongside other barristers.

?The Blue Bag and Red Bag Tradition

As you progress in your career as a barrister, you may notice barristers carrying either a blue or red bag for their wig and gown. The Blue Bag is typically used by junior barristers, symbolising their early stage in the profession, while serving as a practical accessory for their court attire.

The Red Bag, however, carries prestige. It is typically awarded to barristers by King’s Counsels (KC), as a mark of distinction. Receiving a Red Bag signifies exceptional skill in advocacy and is seen as a major honour within the Bar.

These traditions not only celebrate the barrister’s growing reputation and expertise but also serve as a symbolic reminder of the barrister’s role in upholding the highest standards of advocacy in the legal profession.

In 2000, four years after leaving the Crown Prosecution Service and embarking on my journey at the self-employed Bar, I was honoured to receive my first red bag. It was presented to me by the late John Perry QC, a deeply respected figure in the profession. Inside the red bag, he inscribed a personal message that I hold dear:

“To an excellent junior. One of the best. The next time you handle a red bag, I am sure it will be as Perian QC. With every good wish, John Perry.”

This gesture remains a significant milestone in my career, both as a recognition of my work and a source of inspiration for the future.

4.? Gaining Practical Experience

No matter which path you choose, practical experience is crucial. Start building this early by getting involved in mooting, debating, or pro bono work. These opportunities will sharpen your skills in research, argumentation, and public speaking.

Also, try to secure internships, vacation schemes, or mini-pupillages. Not only will this give you a taste of life in legal practice, but it will also make your CV stand out when it comes to applying for pupillage or training contracts.

5. Developing Key Skills

The legal profession is demanding, and success requires more than just academic ability. As you progress, focus on developing the following key skills:

• Communication: Whether it’s explaining complex legal issues to a client or presenting a case in court, clarity and precision in your communication are vital.
• Research: Law is always evolving. You must be able to conduct thorough and effective research, staying on top of the latest legal developments.
• Use of Artificial Intelligence: When conducting legal research, it’s important to approach the use of Artificial Intelligence with caution, as it can produce errors. Avoid relying solely on tools like ChatGPT to complete your assignments, as doing so prevents you from developing essential research and critical thinking skills on paper
• Attention to Detail: Small errors can have significant consequences in legal documents or court submissions. Develop a keen eye for detail.
• Time Management: Legal work is often time-sensitive, so the ability to juggle multiple tasks and meet deadlines is crucial.
• Commercial Awareness: This is especially important if you’re considering commercial law or corporate litigation. You need to understand the business context in which your clients operate.

6. Networking and Mentorship

Networking plays a key role in building a successful legal career. Attend law fairs, seminars, and networking events to meet professionals in the field. This will help you understand the profession better and may even lead to job opportunities down the line.

Finding a mentor—an experienced solicitor or barrister who can guide you through the early stages of your career—can be incredibly valuable. Their advice and insights will be instrumental as you navigate the complexities of legal practice. Fortunately, all the Inns of Court offer mentorship programmes that you can enrol in, providing access to experienced barristers who can offer guidance and support. Additionally, the Law Society runs its own mentorship programme for aspiring solicitors, helping to ensure you have the support you need as you progress in your legal journey.

7. Exploring Alternative Legal Career Paths

While becoming a solicitor or barrister are the two most traditional routes, a law degree opens doors to many other fulfilling careers:

• Government Legal Service: You can serve as a lawyer within the government, working on public policy, advising ministers, and handling legal matters related to governance.
• Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is a key player in the UK’s criminal justice system. CPS prosecutors are responsible for making decisions about whether criminal cases should proceed, based on evidence gathered by the police. They provide legal advice to police during investigations, review cases, and present them in court. As a CPS prosecutor, you will work closely with law enforcement to uphold justice by ensuring that cases have a realistic prospect of conviction and that pursuing a prosecution is in the public interest.

This role is ideal for those passionate about criminal law and public service. CPS offers varied work, including serious crime, fraud, and terrorism cases. Additionally, working with CPS provides opportunities for advocacy experience and courtroom exposure for those considering a barrister's path but interested in the public sector.

• In-House Counsel: Many large corporations and organisations hire legal teams to provide ongoing legal support. Working in-house means you'll advise on a wide range of legal issues that directly impact the business.
• Barristers Joining a Law Firm.

While barristers traditionally practise independently from chambers, it is increasingly common for barristers to join law firms, particularly in specialised areas such as commercial law, arbitration, and litigation. Barristers who move into law firms often bring with them strong advocacy skills and a deep understanding of courtroom procedure, which can be an asset in handling complex disputes.

In law firms, barristers are typically employed as advocates or specialist consultants, offering expert advice and representing clients in court. They often maintain the title and status of "barrister" while operating within the structure of a firm. This path provides barristers with greater job security and access to a broader client base, as well as the ability to work on a wider range of cases that they may not encounter in independent practice.

?For those interested in a collaborative work environment or the commercial aspect of law, joining a law firm can be a valuable alternative to practising at the Bar.

• Legal Research and Academia: If you have a passion for legal theory and teaching, you might consider a career in academia. This path allows you to conduct research, write articles, and teach future generations of lawyers.
• Regulatory Bodies and NGOs: Working for a regulatory authority, charity, or non-governmental organisation allows you to apply legal skills in sectors such as healthcare, finance, human rights, or environmental law.
• Legal Journalism and Publishing: If you have strong writing skills, you might explore opportunities in legal journalism or legal publishing, providing analysis and commentary on legal developments.

8. Staying Resilient

The road ahead may not always be smooth. Competition is fierce, particularly for pupillages and training contracts. Stay resilient and adaptable. Persevere through rejections and setbacks, and always look for ways to improve your skills and knowledge. Passion, determination, and a strong work ethic will help you succeed.

Conclusion

Now that you've chosen to study law, what comes next is up to you. The legal profession is filled with opportunities for those who are dedicated, curious, and eager to make a difference. Whether you choose to become a solicitor, a barrister, or explore other legal career paths, you are stepping into a profession that upholds justice, protects rights, and shapes society.

Make the most of your journey, and remember, your hard work and perseverance will be rewarded. Good luck!"

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?Steven Perian KC. FCIArb.

01.10.24.