We define barristers by their experience. A newly qualified barrister in their 50s would be as ‘young’ as a newly qualified barrister in their 20s. Both individuals would experience similar challenges in the early years of practice.
The young barristers’ committee (YBC) is the voice of the young Bar. The YBC works to represent and promote your interests, on everything from career development opportunities, to addressing issues around bullying and fair allocation of work. The committee is committed to making sure junior barristers are well equipped to master your practice and face the future.Young barristers are the future of the profession, and experience many challenges on the road to building a successful career at the Bar. ‘Young’ barristers can be any age and at any stage of life; your breadth of experience and background is reflected in the committee's work.
Lachlan Stewart (chair), No5 Chambers
I am hugely excited to Chair the YBC for 2025. Being a barrister is a rewarding but very demanding career – particularly for those at the young Bar. Our committee remains a vital mechanism to listen to the young Bar and give it a voice.
Some young barristers are lucky enough to receive excellent training and support through their early years of practice. Others may not be so fortunate. As a committee, we are here to stand up for those less fortunate and the young Bar as a whole.
Amelia Clegg (vice chair), BCL Solicitors LLP
Amelia is a dual-qualified English barrister and New York attorney and practices at the employed Bar at BCL Solicitors LLP. She was called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2017 and was admitted to the New York Bar in 2021. In 2018, Amelia completed her pupillage and subsequently took tenancy at 23 Essex Street in London. Amelia spent three years working as a litigation associate at an AM100 law firm in New York City, where she gained broad experience in state and federal litigation, with an emphasis on commercial litigation, white-collar criminal defence litigation and investigations.
'Starting at the Bar: your essential guide' and the 'Life at the Young Bar' report
The Bar Council’s Young Barristers’ Committee has launched 'Starting at the Bar: your essential guide' for young barristers to help ensure everyone joining the Bar starts on an equal footing, with equal access to information and the opportunity to build a thriving practice.
The 'Life at the Young Bar' report, published on 26 January 2022, is based on research from 2021 into barristers who have been practising for up to seven years.
Wellbeing at the Bar
Our research shows that young barristers in particular are exposed to emotionally and psychologically challenging environments on a daily basis. We want to ensure that young barristers feel supported as they join the profession.
Wellbeing at the Bar aims to tackle the stigma associated with mental health and encourage members of the profession, and those who support us, to better understand wellbeing and feel empowered to make healthy choices. The Young Barristers' Committee is helping to support them in their efforts.
Find out more about the programme and view our resources.
