Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "The Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. The podcast seeks to demystify the legal world, covering topics from courtroom advocacy to the challenges of building a career at the bar.

In a recent episode, Chelsea interviews Panache, a legal assistant who completed the bar in 2021 after initially finishing her exams in 2020. They discuss the pupillage process, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the importance of sharing experiences among aspiring barristers. Panache shares her educational background, having studied NLB Law with Criminology at Keele University and later attending BPP University for her BPTC.

Panache reflects on her undergraduate experience, noting that while she wished she had taken a gap year, she found the academic transition manageable. However, she describes the jump from law school to bar school as significant, likening it to a full-time job with a heavy workload. Chelsea and Panache agree that treating bar school like a job, dedicating specific hours to study, is crucial for success.

The conversation shifts to the importance of gaining legal experience. Panache emphasizes that any experience is valuable and encourages students to leverage transferable skills from previous jobs. She recounts her own journey of applying for mini-pupillages, noting the difficulty of securing these opportunities and the emotional toll it can take. Despite applying to around ten mini-pupillages, she was only successful in securing two.

As they discuss the pupillage application process, Panache shares her strategies for managing applications while working. She highlights the importance of networking and reaching out to legal professionals for guidance, which has helped her gain a better understanding of what chambers look for in applicants.

Chelsea and Panache also touch on the need for more mentorship opportunities within the legal profession. Panache suggests that barristers should proactively reach out to students on platforms like LinkedIn to offer mentorship, and she advocates for universities to create more connections between students and practicing barristers.

The episode concludes with Chelsea expressing her commitment to helping aspiring barristers navigate the challenges of the profession, emphasizing the importance of support and community in achieving success.

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Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "The Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. The podcast seeks to demystify the legal world, covering topics from courtroom advocacy to the challenges of building a career at the bar.

In a recent episode, Chelsea speaks with Charlotte, a current Bar Practice School student who is also a full-time paralegal in conveyancing. Charlotte shares her experiences of juggling her studies with her demanding job, noting the challenges of transitioning between "solicitor mode" and "barrister mode." Despite the difficulties, she finds the skills she is developing to be highly transferable and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience in her journey.

When asked if she would change anything about her current path, Charlotte reflects on her workload and suggests that working part-time instead of full-time might allow her to focus more on her studies. She acknowledges the volume of work required for the bar course and the challenges of fitting in extracurricular activities like mooting and mini-pupillages.

Charlotte expresses gratitude for her supportive boss, who has been accommodating of her commitments to the bar course. She describes her workplace as a small, traditional firm where she feels valued and given responsibility, contrasting her experience with that of peers in larger firms who may not receive the same level of flexibility.

The conversation shifts to Charlotte's educational background, where she discusses her undergraduate studies at Leeds Beckett University and her current studies at the University of Law. She notes the differences between her law degree, which was heavily theoretical, and the practical focus of the bar course.

Charlotte recounts her early interest in becoming a barrister, sparked by a work experience opportunity at Mould Crown Court during her A-levels. However, she admits to feeling unprepared for the journey ahead, lacking guidance on the steps necessary to pursue a career at the bar.

As they discuss the challenges of applying for pupillage, Charlotte shares her experiences with rejections and the emotional toll it can take. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and the need for support from the legal community, highlighting the positivity she has encountered at events like the International Women's Day panel.

In closing, Charlotte offers advice to others in her position: to ignore naysayers and to believe in their ability to succeed. Chelsea echoes this sentiment, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their journeys and that perseverance is key. The episode concludes with a message of encouragement for aspiring barristers, reinforcing the idea that with determination, success is attainable.

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Chelsea Brooke Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, hosts the podcast "Diary of a Barrister." She is dedicated to inspiring both professionals and law students, aiming to help lawyers become the best versions of themselves, both professionally and personally. The podcast seeks to demystify the legal world, covering topics from courtroom advocacy to the challenges of building a career at the bar.

In a recent episode, Chelsea and her co-host, Jodie Hill, Managing Partner at Thrive Laws, shared their experiences from a yoga retreat where they focused on self-care and setting boundaries. They discussed the challenges professionals face in switching off from work, especially in high-demand careers like law. Chelsea emphasized her advocacy for mental health and self-care, noting how yoga has played a crucial role in her well-being.

During their retreat, they engaged in numerous yoga classes, surf lessons, and spent time in nature, which helped them realize the importance of taking breaks. Jodie, who has ADHD, shared her struggles with switching off and the necessity of saying no to various demands on their time. They both acknowledged that saying no is vital for maintaining personal boundaries and ensuring they can focus on their creative projects, such as the book they are writing together.

The duo reflected on the importance of managing expectations and communication with clients and colleagues. Chelsea noted that it took her time to relax during the retreat, highlighting the need for extended periods away from work to recharge and foster creativity. They discussed how busy professionals often feel pressured to respond immediately to messages and emails, which can lead to burnout.

Throughout the episode, they shared practical tips for self-care, including the significance of a balanced diet, gratitude practices, and the benefits of disconnecting from technology. They encouraged listeners to identify their stress triggers and the activities that bring them joy, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in managing stress and enhancing productivity.

Chelsea and Jodie concluded the episode by discussing the lessons they learned about patience and the value of slowing down. They recognized that taking time to appreciate life and the world around them can lead to greater fulfillment and creativity. They expressed their commitment to sharing more insights on mental health and entrepreneurship in future episodes, inviting listeners to engage and share their own experiences.

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In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, Lawyer Diaries your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward, delves into a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and concern for aspiring barristers: the financial realities of making a living at the bar. As an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, Chelsea aims to provide insight and clarity on what it truly means to earn a living in this profession, particularly for those considering a career in civil private practice.

Chelsea begins by addressing a common question posed by law students and those on work experience: "If you get pupillage, will you be able to afford to live?" This question is crucial, as many junior barristers face financial challenges, especially in the early stages of their careers. Chelsea emphasises that earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as location and practice area, particularly between those who work in legal aid versus private practice.

Throughout the episode, Chelsea shares her personal experiences and insights, highlighting that approximately 80% of barristers are self-employed. This status comes with both advantages and disadvantages, including the responsibility of managing one's own finances, tax returns, and expenses. She discusses the importance of budgeting for taxes, the implications of being VAT registered, and the various costs associated with running a practice, such as chambers fees, insurance, and practicing certificates.

Chelsea also touches on the unpredictability of income in the barrister profession, explaining how billing does not always equate to immediate payment. She shares her own journey through pupillage, detailing the financial grants available and the transition from shadowing to earning during the second six months. She discusses that her first-year earnings serve as a benchmark, illustrating the potential for growth and the variability of income based on hard work and dedication.

Moreover, Chelsea candidly discusses the challenges of self-employment, including the lack of benefits such as sick pay and holiday pay, and the necessity of planning for unexpected events. She stresses the importance of hard work, networking, and providing value to clients as key factors in achieving financial success at the bar.

By the end of the episode, hopefully she demystifies (in civil practice) the financial landscape of being a barrister and provides a realistic expectation for those considering this career path. Chelsea encourages listeners to understand that while the journey can be daunting, with determination and effort, it is possible to earn a comfortable living in this prestigious field.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Diary of a Barrister. If you found this discussion helpful, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore the intricacies of a career in law.

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In this episode of The Diary of a Barrister, I, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, along with my co-host Brad Graves, dive into the unique pressures and experiences faced by those in the legal profession, particularly during the application process for pupillage. We open the conversation by reflecting on our roles as informal therapists for each other, highlighting the importance of having someone in the same field to vent to about the stresses of law.

As we discuss the limbo period between submitting applications and awaiting interview outcomes, we explore the balance between preparation and over-preparation. Chelsea emphasises the importance of engaging in practical experiences, such as work placements or mooting competitions, rather than obsessing over interview techniques. We agree that while it’s essential to prepare, it’s equally important to maintain a sense of enjoyment and not to lose sight of the passion that drives us in our legal careers.

We touch on the misconception that candidates need to be the "finished product" before entering the profession. I share my personal struggles with self-doubt and the pressure to prove my worth, while reassuring that the pupillage process is designed to identify potential rather than perfection. We discuss the significance of having a growth mindset and the understanding that learning is a continuous journey in the legal field.

The conversation shifts to the importance of mental health and self-care, especially during stressful periods. I candidly share my own experiences with burnout and the necessity of taking time for oneself. We highlight the saying, "you can't pour from an empty cup," and stress that prioritising mental well-being is crucial for long-term success in any career.

We reflect on the guilt often associated with taking breaks from work and the importance of separating personal time from professional responsibilities.

Join us for this insightful discussion that not only addresses the challenges of pursuing a career in law but also emphasises the importance of mindset, self-care, and the journey of personal growth.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-graves/?originalSubdomain=uk

In this episode of The Diary of a Barrister, Chelsea Brooke-Ward, an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, and Brad Graves, an Aspiring Barrister discuss currently navigating the challenging journey to Pupillage and the application process.

We kick off the episode by discussing the intense process of pupillage applications, with Brad sharing his experiences of balancing a full-time job while dedicating his spare time to crafting his applications. He emphasises the importance of setting aside specific times to reflect on feedback and develop his responses, highlighting the struggle many face when trying to articulate their transferable skills and experiences.

Chelsea opens up about her personal challenges, including his ADHD, which affects her memory, and how she combats this by maintaining a spreadsheet of achievements and public speaking engagements. We delve into the common questions that arise in pupillage applications, such as motivations for becoming a barrister and the attributes that make a good barrister, and Brad shares his strategies for preparing for interviews even before receiving offers.

As we reflect on Brad's journey over the past three years since he decided on a career in law, he expresses how the experiences he has gained have not only filled his CV but also built his confidence. He articulates a shift in mindset from feeling like he needs to prove himself to recognising his worth and readiness to be a Barrister. This transformation is crucial as he prepares for interviews, viewing them as a two-way process where he can assess whether the chambers are a good fit for him as well.

We discuss the importance of self-awareness in this journey, emphasising that aspiring barristers must honestly evaluate their readiness for the role. Brad shares a powerful analogy about a slingshot, illustrating the idea of preparation and readiness before launching into the next phase of his career.

The conversation also touches on practical advice for gaining experience, such as seeking out mini-pupillages and the importance of networking. Brad recounts his own experiences of approaching barristers directly and the value of being proactive in seeking opportunities.

Towards the end of the episode, we reflect on the qualities that chambers look for in candidates, emphasising that while academic knowledge is important, character traits like determination, motivation, and initiative are what truly set candidates apart. We conclude with a reminder that success in the legal field is not just about what you know, but also about how you apply yourself and the connections you make along the way.

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Welcome to ‘Diary of a Pupil,’ where Chelsea Brooke Ward, a distinguished barrister at Park Square Barristers, engages in illuminating conversations with Celine, a junior criminal barrister from the same esteemed chambers.

In this podcast, Celine shares her expertise on the meticulous process of assessing mini Pupillage applications, providing invaluable tips and guidance for aspiring barristers navigating this critical phase of their legal journey. Delving into her own experiences, Celine reflects on the challenges and triumphs encountered during her Pupillage application journey, offering a unique perspective on the demanding path to becoming a barrister.

Listeners are invited to gain an exclusive insight into the daily life of a junior barrister, exploring the intricacies of courtroom advocacy, legal strategy, and the professional nuances that define this esteemed profession.

‘Diary of a Pupil’ serves as a valuable guide for individuals navigating the intricacies of the legal landscape, providing a nuanced exploration of the legal profession. Whether you’re a law student with aspirations for the bar or simply captivated by the world of law, we invite you to join Chelsea and Celine on an enriching and insightful journey through the episodes.


If you don’t follow Chelsea or Celine their social media handles are below:

Chelsea:

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward-232433a3

https://uk.linkedin.com/company/legally-blogged

https://twitter.com/_legallyblogged?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil_barrister/?hl=en-gb

Celine:

https://twitter.com/CelineKart

https://www.linkedin.com/in/celine-kart-757960157?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

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Welcome to 'Diary of a Pupil,' a podcast hosted by Chelsea Brooke Ward from Park Square Barristers. In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Aimilia Katsoulakis, a recent recipient of a coveted pupillage at Park Square Barristers. Aimilia shares her remarkable journey, delving into the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that led to this prestigious opportunity. From the trials of the application process to the elation of receiving the offer, Aimilia candidly discusses her strategies, challenges, and the relentless determination that propelled her toward this career-defining moment. Join us as Aimilia unveils the invaluable insights and experiences that shaped her path to success, offering inspiration and guidance to aspiring legal minds on their own quest for pupillage.

If you want to follow Aimilia her handles are:


https://uk.linkedin.com/in/aimilia-katsoulakis-45b556203

https://twitter.com/AimiliaKatsoul1

https://www.instagram.com/aimiliakatsoulakisx/

If you want to follow Chelsea her handles are:

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-brooke-ward-232433a3

https://uk.linkedin.com/company/legally-blogged

https://twitter.com/_legallyblogged?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/diaryofapupil_barrister/?hl=en-gb

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