Is it worth applying to QEB
if I have a 2.2?
QEB only considers applicants with a 2:1 degree result or above save in
exceptional circumstances.
Do I need to have studied
Family Law?
No. From experience pupils pick up the necessary legal framework very
quickly during the first few months of pupillage.
Does QEB require candidates
for pupillage to have a Law degree?
No. Many of members of chambers have read subjects other than Law at
university.
How do I apply for pupillage
at QEB?
QEB is a member of the Pupillage Portal (formerly OLPAS); applications
should be made in the summer
season. Details are available on the Pupillage Portal website -
[www.pupillageportal.com]
Should I undertake
mini-pupillages?
We would normally expect applicants to have undertaken mini-pupillages;
however, it is NOT necessary to have completed a mini-pupillage at QEB
to be considered for a pupillage proper. Mini-pupillages are important
for a variety of reasons: they give you an idea of what life as a
barrister is like; you will get a feel for whether you are suited to a
particular area of law; and you will find out about the character of a
set of chambers. However, that said, we do not expect candidates for
pupillage to have a string of mini-pupillages.
How many pupils are kept on
at the end of the pupillage year?
There is no quota at QEB. The number of tenancies offered will depend
on the ability of the pupils and the available work in chambers.
However, as a guide, 3 junior tenants have been taken on in the last 3
years.
How are new tenants chosen?
See “Tenancy and Life After Pupillage section”
How many pupils does QEB take?
For October 2010, Chambers offered three 12-month pupillages.
Does QEB offer 3rd Six
pupillages?
No.
Do I need a computer?
Pupils are asked to have a lap-top before they arrive for pupillage. In
the first few days an electronic diary will be installed along with
several legal databases. Pupils are asked to install Microsoft Word and
Excel before they arrive.
What legal resources are
available at QEB?
In addition to the library at QEB, pupils have access to various
electronic legal resources which are installed on each
pupil’s computer shortly after arriving in chambers.
Does QEB encourage pupils to
get involved with FRU?
QEB encourages pupils to undertake 6 days of FRU work during the first
six months of pupillage (and encourages the necessary training to be
carried out before the commencement of pupillage).
Where can I find out more
about QEB?
Mini-pupillage is an excellent way to find about QEB. However, you
might also like to come along to the annual Pupillage Fair where you
will be able to talk to members of chambers and ask any further
questions about pupillage at QEB.
Has QEB been awarded BARMARK?
BARMARK is the Bar Council's scheme designed to recognise good practice
management within chambers. QEB was awarded BARMARK in 2003 and the
pupillage committee was found to “demonstrate best
practice”.