Job Descriptions

Barrister Job Description

What is the job description of a Barrister? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Barrister? What does a Barrister do?

Job description of a Barrister

Barristers are specialists in advocacy and represent individuals or organizations in court. They are independent sources of legal advice and can advise clients on their case. Generally, they are hired by solicitors to represent a case in court and only become involved once advocacy before a court is needed. They plead the case on behalf of the client and the client’s solicitor.

Most barristers work on a self-employed basis, while others work in government departments or agencies. An increasing number of employed barristers work in private and public organizations, such as charities. Self-employed barristers work in offices called chambers, and may have their own office or share one with other barristers.

This Barrister job description example includes the list of most important Barrister duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Barrister profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Barrister Duties and Responsibilities

Barrister job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Advising clients on matters of law and evidence and the strength of their case;
  • Examining and cross-examining witnesses;
  • Taking instruction from clients and their solicitors;
  • Understanding and interpreting the law;
  • Undertaking legal research into relevant points of law;
  • Mastering and managing legal briefs (cases);
  • Summing up the reasons why the court should support the client’s case;
  • Drafting legal documents;
  • Negotiating settlements.
  • The work of a criminal barrister is likely to involve a lot of advocacy in court;
  • A family law barrister may be representing clients in court in a contact dispute or divorce case, but may also be involved in mediation as a way of avoiding the need to go to court;
  • Representing clients in court;
  • Presenting arguments in court;
  • Barristers practising chancery/commercial law are generally in court far less than those in other practice areas and instead spend more time undertaking drafting and advisory work.
  • Writing opinions and advising solicitors and other professionals;
  • Preparing cases for court, including holding client conferences, preparing legal arguments, etc.;

Barrister Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Barrister job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Laws degree.
  • Current legal experience as a Barrister.
  • Legal licence.
  • Advanced legal research skills.
  • Knowledge of the judicial system and court practices.
  • Previous experience providing advocacy in court.
  • Excellent oral presentation and communication skills.
  • Good interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Barrister starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Barrister job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Barrister may also reference it in preparation for the interview.