Break Through The Bar

I have said throughout my journey to the bar that it very much “takes a village”. 

Navigating into a career in law is complicated and actually quite nerve wracking. 

I, as a first generation to attend university with no familial connections to law, have received countless hours of advice , guidance & support from those at the bar. 

This years IWD theme “give to gain” highlights the importance of keeping a hand outstretched for those starting out or taking the next steps in their careers. 

Why is ‘give to gain’ so important at the bar?

The notion of “give to gain” is arguably more significant for women the bar than ever before. We are seeing the statistics of women entering the bar at their highest, with women now making up the majority of pupils. 

But, those figures have not yet reached into the more senior levels. Women make up approximately 21% to 28% of all practicing King’s Counsel (silks) in England and Wales and made up 39% of all court judges.

Although women constitute nearly 40% of the barrister profession, they remain underrepresented at senior KC level. 

These figures remind us that whilst progress has undoubtedly been made, there is still work to be done. Representation at entry level is improving, but the progression of women through the profession, particularly into senior advocacy and leadership roles, has not yet caught up.

This is precisely why the principle of give to gain is so important at the Bar. The profession has long been shaped by mentorship, sponsorship and informal guidance. 

For many aspiring barristers,  particularly those from non-traditional or first-generation backgrounds,  the encouragement of someone already in the profession can make the difference between believing the Bar is a possibility, and believing it is not for them.

But “giving” does not need to be grand gestures. It can be as simple as offering honest advice, sharing experiences, recommending someone for an opportunity, or encouraging a colleague who may be doubting themselves. These small acts of support help to build confidence, community and, ultimately, a more inclusive profession.

If we want to see the statistics change at the senior levels of the Bar, we must continue to support those coming through, and support one another along the way.

As more of us climb the ladder at the Bar, the true measure of progress is not how far we climb, but ensuring we do not pull the ladder up behind us and instead hold it steady for those still making their way up.