The Eight Secrets to Mini-Pupillage

Getting a mini pupillage is like getting a backstage pass to the legal world – it’s invaluable. Where advocacy changes from a chapter in a textbook to a voice in a courtroom, and witnesses are no longer actors but ordinary people.

If it is your first mini pupillage, you may be asking ‘how do I make the most of my time?’

What to Expect

First, congratulations, mini pupillages are competitive and so getting one is an achievement.  

Chambers will get in touch with you with what you need to do. They will confirm the court you need to attend, when to get there by and which barrister you will be shadowing. Occasionally, you may be asked to come into Chambers instead.

Once you meet your barrister, you will likely have a short de-brief about the case before the hearing begins. From there, prepare to fully immerse yourself by watching the day unfold in real time.

My Eight Secrets

Don’t speak unless you are asked	Think of yourself as a shadow in the background, you are there to observe, not participate. As a rule of thumb, whether your barrister goes you follow. You should not discuss the case unless you are invited to although there is always room for light, friendly conversation when the moment feels appropriate.
Understand court etiquette	You may here phrases such as “all rise” or “please stand if able” when the Judge enters or leaves the room. That is your cue to stand. I also learnt that it was custom to slightly bow your head as a sign of respect. It is also important to understand how to address a Judge, that depends on which type of Judge they are. Here is this handy guide created by the SRA: SRA | How to address the court | Solicitors Regulation Authority
Make a good first impression	Dress smartly in a dark suit and make sure to get to court on time (you will need to arrive earlier as you will need to get through security). As much as you are nervous, remember to show enthusiasm: a genuine smile goes a long way!
Be nice to all court staff	Court ushers, advisors, security staff and even the owners running the little coffee shop are all going to be people you rely on in practice so be nice and polite. Judges are also known to robustly defend their clerks, so anything less than respectful won’t do you any favours and can land you in trouble!
Pretend you are the barrister in the case	How would you answer? What would you do? Make a note and have a discussion with the barrister. I also found it useful to have a go at taking note of evidence and attendance notes as practise.
Ask questions	Asking questions is always encouraged, just remember to ask them at an appropriate time.
Write down what you see and learn	I bought a black A4 leather notebook right at the very start of my legal journey and I would write everything I ever did in it. From my mini-pupillages, interesting scenarios at my jobs and all training courses. It’s been very helpful when amending my CV, applications etc. I would always write down what I saw (including who, where, what) and overall take-away learnings.
Be yourself	It is so important to be yourself. Have a conversation and remember, everyone is human too regardless of their position/role.

Every barrister started where you are now: watching, listening and observing. Your mini pupillage is the first step in your journey, make it count.