Barrister, Oxford

Barristers give advice to solicitors and represent people in disagreements, investigations and in court.Day-to-day tasksmeet with clients and take on casesresearch the law and cases similar to the one you're working onread witness statements and reportsoffer legal advice and your opinionnegotiate settlements out of courtprepare legal arguments and court briefsquestion witnesses and present cases to the judge and juryWorking environmentYou could work in a court, at chambers or in an office.Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.Working hours36 to 38 hours per weekSkills you\'ll needlegal knowledge including court procedures and government regulationsanalytical thinking skillsto be thorough and pay attention to detailthe ability to think clearly using logic and reasoningthe ability to accept criticism and work well under pressureto be able to use a computer and the main software packages competentlyHow to become oneYou can get into this job through a university course or by working towards this role.You could start your career by working in a law firm or the law department of an organisation.If you\'re a solicitor, you can apply to become a barrister if you get approval from the Bar Standards Board and sit a Bar Transfer Test.Career path and progressionWith experience you could lead a team; become a manager; apply to become a Queen\'s Counsel (QC); become a judge; become an ombudsmanYou can find out more about this career from:You could join the Bar Council for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.#J-18808-Ljbffr