Returning to the Bar

The Inner Temple is committed to supporting its members throughout all stages of their careers.

We are currently working in collaboration with the other Inns and circuits to develop a programme of events and support for those returning to the bar after a period away. This is likely to include a mentoring scheme, advocacy sessions, CV workshops and more.

Our Communication Skills for Barristers in the Workplace course, held each year in February, has places specifically for those returning to the bar, helping rebuild confidence in their oral advocacy.

We are keen to hear from those currently in the process of (or considering) returning to the bar or taking a career break. If you have any particular suggestions as to types of sessions and support that would be of most use to you, please contact establishedbarristers@innertemple.org.uk

Forthcoming sessions will be advertised on this page and via the Inn’s social media accounts.

Links

In the meantime, the Bar Council’s Ethics and Practice Hub has a range of useful resources and guidance on both taking time away from practice and the practicalities of returning afterwards:

Middle Temple also has a useful page of tips and links for returners, covering topics such as securing tenancy and job-hunting, practice development, regaining confidence, regulatory and administrative matters, keeping up to date with substantive and procedural law, and wellbeing:

We would also highly recommend the Wellbeing at the Bar Portal, a joint project between the Inns of Court, the Bar Council and the Institute of Barristers’ Clerks to provide specific support and best practice to barristers, clerks and chambers on wellbeing and mental health issues: