We are not like other chambers and life as a pupil at Hardwicke isn't easy. We expect you to work hard; in return we will ensure you have the breadth and depth of experience needed for a successful career at the Bar.
On this site, you find out more about what we are looking for in a candidate, what we can offer you and what pupillage at Hardwicke is like - told by:
The Pupil's View
- Alastair Hogarth (mini-pupil)
Approaching the door of Hardwicke building on day one of my mini-pupillage I had little idea what to expect. For a mere law student Hardwicke is the biggest and one of the most illustrious chambers in London, so there was an apprehension of my perhaps being slightly in the way. All fears, however, were immediately dispelled on meeting the barrister who I was assigned to for the week. [Richard Buswell]
Despite its size and reputation, Hardwicke is an enormously friendly environment. Straight away clerks, pupils and barristers I met were interested to know who I was, what stage I was at and offer any advice they could. The atmosphere of the building is modern and unstuffy, laid-back but highly professional. A chambers where anyone will help you figure out the photocopier or find a note book.
During the week I had a fantastic time. Having expected to be seeing civil cases I was assigned to a family barrister, an area of law I hadn't previously considered. Day one was settling a three year divorce in Bromley, the next a highly charged FDR in Watford, then a high profile application in the Court of Appeal. I was given copies of all the files, everything was explained and it was then straight into meeting the clients and their solicitors at the various courts. Although my input was negligible, helping with whatever I could, I was made to feel like a genuine potential future pupil with my barrister ensuring I saw every step of proceedings or negotiations.
At the end of the week my impression of Hardwicke is one of a very open set that looks to people's potential. As a mini-pupil I felt involved and very much part of what was going on for the week. I took in a huge amount in a very short space of time as I was given a comprehensive insight into life in chambers. No doubt mini-pupillages depend greatly on the barrister to whom one is assigned but my personal experience was hugely positive. I discovered a new avenue I may well pursue, learnt a great deal, received a lot of advice and, above all, really enjoyed myself.