Starting pupillage is a huge step in any aspiring barrister’s career. At Express Chambers, our pupillage programme gives pupils practical experience, advocacy opportunities and the chance to learn from experienced barristers.
But what is pupillage really like?
We spoke to Adam Bale, who will be completing his pupillage at Express Chambers this month, about his experience, the challenges he faced, the skills he has developed and the advice he would give to future pupil barristers.
If you had to describe your first year of pupillage at Express Chambers in one word, what would it be and why?
I would have to say demanding (in the best kind of way). The year demanded rapid growth from day one, particularly in drafting, advocacy and judgment. By the end of the pupillage, the combination of challenge, support and constant practical experience has prepared me well for junior practice.
How does the reality of pupillage at Express Chambers compare with your expectations before you started?
The reality of pupillage exceeded my expectations. The training was genuinely supportive and the level of investment in pupils was far greater than I had imagined. The pace was fast and there was a lot to learn, but the environment made it manageable.
What has been the biggest learning curve during your pupillage?
Moving from an academic understanding of law to the practical, day-to-day judgment required in real cases. Knowing what to prioritise, how to structure an argument and what matters to a judge was the steepest learning curve.
Is there a particular case or piece of work that stands out as a highlight and why?
Yes, my first fast‑track trial win in a road traffic accident case. After about an hour of cross‑examination, the defendant accepted that the claimant was there to be seen. It was a moment when the preparation, structure and pace of the questioning all came together, and I was very happy with both the outcome and the way the cross-examination unfolded.
How have experienced barristers at Express Chambers supported your development as a pupil?
They explained their approach to cases, talked through decisions and showed how they structure arguments in court. The feedback on written work was precise and focused, and every piece of work became an opportunity to improve. That combination of practical experience and constructive feedback made a real difference throughout the year.
What feedback or guidance has been most valuable to you throughout your pupillage?
I would have to say learning not to script. That advice changed the way I approach advocacy, making my questioning more natural and my submissions more focused.
What was the biggest adjustment when moving from your non-practising six to your practising six?
The biggest adjustment was handling fast-track trials. The level of preparation increased sharply, and moving from observing cross-examination to conducting it myself demanded a different skill set, one that you just can’t learn during the Bar course.
If you could go back to your first day as a pupil barrister, what advice would you give yourself?
I would tell myself to focus on the basics, ask questions and not worry about being perfect. Improvement comes day by day.
What makes Express Chambers a great place to complete pupillage?
Express Chambers is a great place to complete pupillage because the training is practical, structured and genuinely focused on development. You are supported, challenged and given opportunities to improve throughout the year, making the learning curve manageable and the experience worthwhile.
What advice would you give to aspiring barristers considering applying for pupillage at Express Chambers?
Focus on the fundamentals and be ready to work hard. Ask questions, take feedback seriously and show that you can improve quickly. If you approach pupillage with a genuine interest in advocacy and a willingness to learn, you will get the most out of the experience.
Considering pupillage at Express Chambers?
Are you an aspiring barrister looking to kick-start your career? We offer up several pupillage positions each year, which you can learn more about on our dedicated pupillage page.
Applications for pupillage will be available via the Pupillage Gateway.