Prospects at the Bar -Specialising in Banking Law

BoJo90

Hi All

I’ve read the threads on the prospects for newly qualified barristers – thanks for the info!

Can I ask about the potential to build a practice based on a career in Investment Banking/Trading?

I’ve been living and working in the UK for my adult life, and now I want to try and find a way home. In that time I’ve built up knowledge and experience of the markets, is that something that can be used at the Bar?

I know the big law firms have large banking departments, but does that mean there is court work in this sector?

Thanks in advance!

BoJo

NoQuarter

There is. In fact, the biggest case (in monetary value) went through the courts last year, from the Madoff fallout. Thema Fund v HSBC.

But here's how it is; to be a first year trying to specialise is laughable im afraid. I mean, the intention is great, but forget it. In your first few years you take any work you can get, youll likely end up doing some family law etc etc. In general, what they say is that your area finds you as opposed to the opposite.

The commercial firms have their litigation departments and some of the sub groups within that deal with financial crime and financial litigation. I dont see how a knowledge of the markets would help though, im not sure how a case could come from that but maybe. Your experience may well be attractive to them. Youd just have to sit on the quiet side of the bench. Of course, being a solicitor first could help if you ever went to the bar, but we're talking a 10+ year timeline there perhaps. There is also funds law? but you wont see a courtroom.

LutherBlissett

I would imagine that at the bar, the area of funds etc. is relatively well sewn up by the top commercial practitioners. It is unlikely that a devil (even an older devil) would be given a case like that. Devil with somebody experienced in the area, and you might get brought in on a case, but again, that wouldn't happen for everyone. Better bet might be qualifying as a solicitor - most of the top firms have funds/ financial law departments. That sounds a little bit more what you might be looking for?

Tom Young

OP - Think twice before embarking on the Bar route. That experience is valuable away from the Bar. In House. Hand full of cases per year and a snowballs chance in hell of getting near it for 7/10 years post qualification.

impr0v

I agree with Tom re the Bar not being the best way to maximise the value of your experience. You could also try getting into one of those firm departments that you mention.