Qualifying as a barrister

keano007

Can anyone tell me if one was to do a Law Degree and then go on to complete the BL at Kings Inns. How long does the qualification last for?

For example, someone working full time, does a part time law degree and again does the BL over two years part time. Could they for example be then called to the Bar in say 5-10 years time?

I think the FE1's once passed expire after 5 years, but I'm not sure about this either, maybe someone could confirm this also?

page1

keano007 wrote: »

Can anyone tell me if one was to do a Law Degree and then go on to complete the BL at Kings Inns. How long does the qualification last for?

For example, someone working full time, does a part time law degree and again does the BL over two years part time. Could they for example be then called to the Bar in say 5-10 years time?

I think the FE1's once passed expire after 5 years, but I'm not sure about this either, maybe someone could confirm this also?

You can do a law degree or the KI diploma in legal studies (2 yrs part time), then pass the entrance exams to be admitted to the BL degree ( I think you can defer the degree for one year if required) then you do the degree in either 1 yr full time or 2 yrs part time. Once you pass you are then called to the bar. If you wish to practise you must then undertake your pupillage/devilling. If you are asking how long can you defer your devilling after being called to the bar, then I don't know the answer to that.
Once you pass the FE1s you have 5 yrs to start your training contract.

keano007

page1 wrote: »

If you are asking how long can you defer your devilling after being called to the bar, then I don't know the answer to that.

Ya that's what I'm asking. I wonder does anyone else here know the answer to this question?

ResearchWill

I don't think there is any limit unlike Solicitors. I have a friend who got the BL back in the early 80's but only started his devilling year in early 2000's. But to be sure a call to bar council or kings inns will answer that for you.

keano007

ResearchWill wrote: »

I don't think there is any limit unlike Solicitors. I have a friend who got the BL back in the early 80's but only started his devilling year in early 2000's. But to be sure a call to bar council or kings inns will answer that for you.

Cheers

NoQuarter

Pretty sure there is no time limit.

subrosa

I'm pretty sure there's no time limit. Keep in mind that there is a theoretical difference between being awarded the BL and being called to the Bar. Once awarded the BL by Kings Inns the Chief Justice calls you to the Bar on the basis that she is satisfied KI has awarded you the degree.

In practice the two ceremonies happen in rapid succession. Once called to the Bar you have rights of audience and that doesn't lapse.

birdie89

Does anyone know if it is five years from the time the pass your first 3 FE1s or 5 years from when you pass all 8 that they expire?