Step 1: Deciding whether you want to become a barrister One of the problems in deciding whether to become a barrister is separating the myths from the reality. It can be difficult to navigate through the maze of traditions associated with banisters and their portrayal in the media.

What you need to know before you start It is important to understand the difference between the two branches of the legal profession: solicitors and barristers. The distinction is one which has become more blurred in recent years, but the two remain separate. A barrister specialises in giving advice on derailed issues and representing clients in court. In contrast, a solicitor provides more general initial advice, instructs a barrister (if necessary) and liases with the client and the barrister; About a quarter of barristers are not in independent practice as described above, but are employed by the Government Legal Service, the Crown Prosecution Service, local government, the armed forces or a variety of commercial organisations. The type of work they do will depend on the employer, but will require the same ability to give specialised legal advice outlined above. The decision to become a barrister should not be taken lightly, a considerable amount of skill and commitment is required. The Bar like most professions has its own specialised vocabulary.

Some facts & figures At the moment about 50% of those who start the vocational stage of training get pupillages. About 60% of those who get pupillages go on to obtain tenancies. In 1995-96 about 700 pupillages were obtained - at least half of them were funded. The Bar is now committed to providing at least 450 pupillages funded to a minimum of £3,000 for six months and £6,ooo for twelve months. Many chambers offer more than this while some pupillages are unfunded. There are 5,500 tenants in London and 2,500 across the rest of England and Wales. There are also some 2,500 barristersemployed by various public and private sector organisations. Grants from local education authorities are rarely available to those undertaking the vocational stage of training. However the four Inns of Court offer Scholarships to students. The average cost of completing the vocational stage of training is estimated at over £10,000, if living expenses are taken into consideration.