Becoming a Barrister
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Entry to the Bar of Northern Ireland is based on merit.
How do I become a Barrister?
The path to becoming a barrister in Northern Ireland will differ depending on where you study, qualify and complete your pupillage training. There are different pathways for those who have trained as barristers in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland or England and Wales. A different procedure exists for solicitors who wish to re-qualify as barristers or those who wish to transfer from European jurisdictions. In general, the following steps apply:
Northern Ireland
1. Complete a qualifying law degree.
2. Complete the Bar Post-Graduate Diploma in Professional Legal Studies at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies, Queen’s University, Belfast (IPLS).
3. Call to the Bar of Northern Ireland and complete a 12 month pupillage.
For further information please contact the Clerk to the Under Treasurer of the Inn of Court of Northern Ireland on 028 9056 2349.
The Benchers have produced guidelines to Students of the Inn of Court on Engaging in any Other Occupation.
Temporary Call
Application Form - Temporary Membership
Application for a Temporary Practising Certificate
Payment can be made by credit card or bank transfer upon request by emailing lisa.mayes@barofni.org
If you require further information please contact lisa.mayes@barofni.org or call 02890562055
Discretionary Committee
If you require further information please contact lisa.mayes@barofni.org or call 02890562055
2025 Exemption Applications
The Bar Council is offering three more windows of opportunity to apply for exemption in 2025. The opportunities are as follows:
- Application process opens Monday 21 October 2024 with deadline for return of Friday 08 November 2024, guaranteeing decision by 01 January 2025
- Application process opens Monday 03 March 2025 with deadline for return of Friday 21 March 2025, guaranteeing decision by 04 April 2025.
- Application process opens Monday 11 August 2025 with deadline for return of Friday 05 September 2025, guaranteeing decision by 30 September 2025. No new applications to be considered until the opening of the cycle in mid-October 2025 for the following exemption year in 2026.
Email Donal Hannaway , or call 028 9056 2060 for additional information.