Employed Bar

The BSB Handbook defines an employed barrister as a barrister employed in either an authorised non-BSB body, a BSB authorised body or a non-authorised body “who supplies legal services as a barrister in the course of his employment.” In all cases the definition encompasses both those who are employed under a contract of employment and those employed “under a written contract for services which is for a determinate period (subject to any provision for earlier termination on notice)”. In other words, a barrister may become an ’employed barrister’ for the purpose of the Rules even if not employed under a permanent contract of employment.

All barristers, whether employed or self-employed, are subject to the Core Duties under the BSB Handbook and the Conduct Rules set out at rC1-rC72, except where stated otherwise.

The employed Bar offers barristers the opportunity to train in specialist areas of law and take on varied work. Employed barristers benefit from collaborative and cooperative workplaces, greater financial security, and a range of employee benefits including paid leave and protections. 

As an employed barrister, your work will vary greatly depending on your employer. Employers include the Crown Prosecution Service, the Government Legal Department, the Armed Forces, local government, regulatory bodies (regulators such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council) and private companies (such as banks).

Read our blog about the breadth of work undertaken at the employed Bar from briefing the King to advising on legal aspects for the London Olympics Opening Ceremony.

It is possible to move between the self-employed and employed Bar - an effective way of 'trying out' employed or self-employed practice is through secondments (short term placements with employers or chambers). 

For many who are nearing completion of pupillage and facing the decision over tenancy applications, a career at the employed Bar is certainly an option.  

Read our blog: Dispelling myths about transferring to different parts of the Bar

The employed Bar makes a valuable contribution to the pro bono work of the whole Bar. We asked barristers what the benefits were of undertaking pro bono work in 2023 and almost 40% said “making a difference by helping people or charities” and more than a quarter (26%) said they found it “interesting and professionally fulfilling”. You can undertake pro bono work through the Free Representation Unit or Advocate. If you’re an employed barrister who wants to do pro bono work, read our advice on the Ethics and practice hub and have a look at our pro bono page.