What Will I Be Asked in My Pupillage Interview?

Chambers are looking out for well-rounded candidates who can demonstrate commitment to a career in law. You can’t predict every question, but practising common ones will boost your confidence and help you structure your answers effectively. Common questions normally explore your motivation for becoming a barrister and your career aspirations:

• Why do you want to become a barrister?
• Why did you apply to our Chambers?
• Why should we pick you?
• Where do you see yourself in 5/10 years?

Chambers will want to hear the evidence of resilience, advocacy, and initiative. Expect competency-based questions that test your ability to perform under pressure, handle challenging situations, and think strategically.

• Describe a time you acted on your own initiative.
• How do you handle criticism?
• Do you prefer mooting or debating, and why?
• What is your biggest strength and biggest weakness?

Curveball questions test how well you think on your feet and show your personality. They help Chambers assess your ability to handle unexpected situations with composure and creativity, both essential qualities for a barrister in court. A well-thought-out response can leave a lasting impression. My advice is to embrace the challenge and have fun with your answers.

• Can you tell us a joke?
• If you were a biscuit, which one would you be and why?
• Which historical figures would you invite to a dinner party?
• Tell us something you are most proud of, which is non-law related.

If you’re applying to chambers, especially one that focuses on criminal law, be ready for some questions that dive into your advocacy skills. Future barristers must demonstrate strong advocacy skills, as courtroom work will be at the core of your practice.

• What’s the difference between prosecuting and defending?
• What are the requirements for a bail application?
• What changes would you make to the Criminal Justice System?
• Can you give for and against arguments on any given topic?

• Know your application: Be prepared to discuss everything you’ve included in your application.
• Stay up to date: Read recent legal news and key cases. Chambers want commercially aware candidates.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Mock interviews can help to refine your responses.
• Be yourself: Confidence and personality matter! Don’t pretend to be anyone else?