Family law is a branch of law that deals with issues related to family relationships, such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence. Family law barristers are legal professionals who specialise in representing clients in family law matters. In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at what family law barristers do, how to become one, and the important role they play in the legal system.
What Does a Family Law Barrister Do?
A family law barrister is a lawyer who represents clients in court in cases related to family law. They provide legal advice, draft legal documents, and represent clients in court hearings and trials. Some of the common issues that family law barristers handle include:
- Divorce and separation
- Child custody and access
- Child support
- Adoption
- Domestic violence
- Property division
Family law barristers work closely with their clients to understand their needs and goals and provide them with expert legal advice. They also negotiate settlements and represent clients in court to ensure their rights are protected.
How to Become a Family Law Barrister
Becoming a family law barrister requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Here are the steps you need to take to become a qualified family law barrister:
1. Obtain a Law Degree
The first step to becoming a family law barrister is to obtain a law degree from a recognised university. You can choose to study either a three-year LLB (Bachelor of Laws) degree or a four-year law degree that includes a year of legal practice. After completing your law degree, you will need to pass the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC).
2. Complete the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC)
The BPTC is a one-year vocational course that provides aspiring barristers with the necessary skills and knowledge to practice law. It covers subjects such as advocacy, legal research, and drafting legal documents. After completing the BPTC, you will need to pass the Bar Standards Board (BSB) exams to qualify as a barrister.
3. Complete a Pupillage
After passing the BSB exams, you will need to complete a pupillage, which is a period of supervised training with an experienced barrister. During pupillage, you will gain practical experience in family law cases and learn from experienced professionals. Pupillage typically lasts for one year and is divided into two parts: a non-practicing six months and a practicing six months.
4. Obtain a Tenancy
After completing pupillage, you may be offered a tenancy by the chambers where you trained. A tenancy is a permanent contract that allows you to practice as a self-employed barrister. Once you have obtained a tenancy, you can start building your practice in family law and represent clients in court.
The Role of a Family Law Barrister
Family law barristers play a crucial role in the legal system by representing clients in family law matters and ensuring their rights are protected. Some of the key responsibilities of a family law barrister include:
- Providing legal advice to clients
- Drafting legal documents such as petitions, affidavits, and witness statements
- Representing clients in court hearings and trials
- Negotiating settlements on behalf of clients
- Advising clients on their legal rights and options
- Advocating for clients’ interests in court
Family law barristers work closely with their clients to understand their needs and goals and provide them with expert legal advice. They also liaise with other professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, and mediators, to help clients reach a resolution in their family law matters.
Why Hire a Family Law Barrister?
There are many reasons why you may need to hire a family law barrister to represent you in a family law matter. Some of the benefits of hiring a family law barrister include:
- Expert legal advice: Family law barristers have extensive knowledge and experience in family law matters and can provide you with expert legal advice tailored to your specific case.
- Representation in court: Family law barristers are skilled advocates who can represent you in court hearings and trials to ensure your rights are protected.
- Negotiation skills: Family law barristers are trained negotiators who can help you reach a settlement with the other party and avoid the need for a lengthy court battle.
- Emotional support: Family law matters can be emotionally challenging, and a family law barrister can provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
Overall, hiring a family law barrister can help you navigate the complexities of family law and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Conclusion
Family law barristers play a vital role in the legal system by representing clients in family law matters and ensuring their rights are protected. Becoming a family law barrister requires a combination of education, training, and experience, but the rewards of a career in family law are well worth the effort. If you are facing a family law matter and need expert legal representation, hiring a family law barrister can help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
