I began my pupillage at Becket Chambers in April 2025. Now, three months into my pupillage, I have attended court almost daily and gained exposure to the majority of the practice areas undertaken by chambers.
Each day of pupillage is unique. I have shadowed members of chambers across Kent, London and Brighton, and I have been given the opportunity to witness a variety of different advocacy styles. Becket Chambers has provided me with the necessary support to build my confidence whilst enabling me to develop my own personalised advocacy style.
Becket Chambers provides a comprehensive support framework for its pupils. I have regular (if not daily) contact with my Pupil Supervisor, attend monthly mentor meetings and more formal quarterly reviews, which give me an opportunity to address any questions or challenges I encounter and to build up my knowledge within the area. It is this one-to-one support that has enabled me to strengthen my knowledge as I advance through pupillage.
A case that has stood out to me during my pupillage involved final care order proceedings concerning a mother who was serving a custodial sentence. I learned the importance of adopting a sensitive approach in such matters by putting forward a strong case whilst also remaining acutely aware of the draconian nature of the order being made. It is therefore paramount to adopt a sensitive approach with a client in these proceedings.
Outside of court, I have attended multiple conferences both in person and online. These experiences have provided me with a valuable insight into how clients are supported beyond the courtroom, highlighting the importance of effective communication and case management in these settings. Additionally, I have observed the specific approach taken when assisting direct access clients during proceedings and noted how this varies to represented clients.
As the months progress, I look forward to further expanding my skillset and deepening my knowledge across the various practice areas at Becket Chambers. I have come to appreciate that our role extends beyond courtroom advocacy to encompass ongoing support and communication with clients outside of court. Becket Chambers has enabled me to recognise the importance of allowing a client to be heard and understood throughout the process.
Becket Chambers fosters a strong sense of community both within chambers and throughout Kent. I had the opportunity to attend a Kent Law Society event, where I engaged with legal professionals from across the region. I look forward to participating in future events throughout the remainder of the year.
The support I have received from the barristers and the clerking team demonstrates a shared commitment within chambers to advancing my growth and progression as a barrister. I am grateful not only for the warm welcome I have received but also for the comprehensive support provided in every aspect of pupillage to date. I look forward to the rest of my pupillage and the cases I shall undertake along the way.
