How does a barrister differ from a solicitor?

By Olivia Nichols

Identifying you want to study law is one thing, deciding whether you want to become a solicitor or a barrister is another entirely. You’ve heard one or both words thrown around in passing but you don’t really know what either are or which one is better. Allow me to enlighten you.

What does a solicitor do?

The role of a solicitor is to give advice for everyday scenarios such as the buying and selling of property or commercial transactions. Solicitors can work to protect human rights nationally and internationally or close important mergers and aquisitions. The role of a solicitor is much broader and varied with different opportunities. Solicitors are expected to research and understand different cases, draft contracts and wills and represent clients in tribunals etc. If your interested in fields of law such as corporate or human rights, becoming a solicitor may be the perfect fit for yourself.

How do I become a solicitor?

To become a solicitor the process is rather arduous which is typical for any legal profession. If you wish to enter the profession through the law degree route then you must have atleast five GCSEs in a grade 4/c or above and a minimum of two A levels however most universities require three. A qualifying law degree would be either a three year law degree or a legal conversion course after your degree of choice, this is known as a GDL. If you wish to enter the profession without a law degree you must embark on a degree apprentership instead. Furthermore once you have completed this you will need to take the SQE, the ‘solicitor qualifying exam’ The process to becoming a qualified solicitor takes about seven to eight years.

What does a barrister do?

Barristers however often have particular specialties and their role is to advocate for their client, they are trained to advise clients. In addition, barristers work independantly and are self employed. Sometimes a barrister may be working as a sole practitioner but often they work in groups in chambers. Barristers are associated with criminal law and often have to argue in the court room, which is not to say that is the only environment you may find a barrister, there is plenty ‘out-of-court’ work too.

How to become a barrister?

To become a barrister you must complete three stages of experience. Stage one consists of the education, which will take three to five years depending on your choice of completeling a law degree of undergoing your GDL, this will take longer if you wish to do this part time. The second stage consists of the vocation stage, it lasts about one to two years, here you apply for the bar training course and can complete this part time or full time. Finally stage three involves pupillage, which is a work experience of sorts divided into your first six and your second six, the second six is the six you are considered practising. After you have completed these stages, then you can qualify as a barrister.

Which is best?

Some argue the freedom of being a barrister is extremely rewarding whilst others argue it can lack the stability of a guaranteed salary. At times some barristers have found it hard to say no to work and have found themselves swimming in tasks with little to no time to complete them. The decision lies solely on your interests and your work style preference. However the good news is that you don’t have to pick now! Countless people switch over as late as half way through their career!

The best way to decide, as irritating as it sounds is simple - educate yourself, learn about both and explore your interests. The rest should fall into place.

Kind regards,

Olivia.