Survey Results - Trainee feedback on 2 Harcourt Buildings

The lowdown - Pupils (in their own words) on 2 Harcourt Buildings

We sent The Legal 500 Future Lawyers Pupil and Junior Barrister survey to pupils and juniors up to two years in tenancy at 2 Harcourt Buildings. Here is what they had to say:

Why did you choose these chambers over any others?

‘Pupils and junior tenants appear in the Crown Court, and it is a small size set that allows for a high degree of independent development of practice’

How does your training compare with what you hear from pupils/juniors at other chambers?

‘Much more Crown Court work – I was instructed in 30 Crown Court jury trials in my second six and this had the benefit of developing jury advocacy skills and being paid more than Magistrates’ Court fees’

Best thing about chambers?

‘The ability to develop your own practice – I have a crime and inquiries practice with the flexibility to try out other complementary practice areas either with direct case load or secondment’

Worst thing about chambers?

‘There is too much work and it feels difficult at the junior end to be declining instructions. However, my clerks manage this well for me’

Best moment so far?

‘Being led as prosecution junior in a multi-handed organised crime trial this year’

Worst moment so far?

‘Dealing with a client who shouted at me so loudly in conference that the judge threatened to remand them’

How would you rate the availability of pro bono and/or CSR-related opportunities in your chambers?

‘Good’