Chambers offers a number of mini-pupillages throughout the year. Each lasts for one week.

Applications for mini pupillages should be marked for the attention of the Mini-Pupillage Secretary, Philip Stott. Applications should be made by CV and covering letter by post (enclosing SAE) or by email via barristers@holliswhiteman.co.uk

There are currently no mini-pupillages available for 2008. Please do not apply for any mini-pupillages until applications re-open for next year.

Applications for 2009 open on 1 October 2008.

Applications for 2008 open on 1 October 2007

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate the potential to excel in their academic and extra-curricular life and to have a real interest in the work of a criminal chambers. Undergraduates and graduates are eligible to apply but the minimum age for consideration is 18 at the time of the application.

A mini-pupil supervisor is allocated to each mini-pupil. The mini-pupil supervisor takes responsibility for ensuring that their mini-pupil sees an appropriate range of work during the week whether with the mini-pupil supervisor or with another member of chambers.

A barrister's life is varied and changes from one day to the next. It is not possible, therefore, to guarantee a fixed timetable for a mini-pupillage, nor can it be predicted with any certainty what might be covered in any one week. A mini-pupillage may involve spending time in chambers gaining an insight into a barrister’s life out of court, researching and preparing for cases, and conferring with clients. There may be opportunities to watch and listen to members of chambers in a variety of tribunals ranging from Magistrates’ Courts to the Court of Appeal.

Mini-pupils should always be prepared to assist Counsel when asked or to discuss relevant legal matters.

Towards the end of their week, mini-pupils are asked to complete a short piece of work. This will either be oral or written advocacy. This work is not formally assessed but is delivered to the mini-pupil supervisor who will provide feedback. The exercise does not require prior knowledge of substantive law or procedure. It is designed as an opportunity to research and deliver the sort of advocacy that our pupils and barristers are asked to do on a daily basis.

There are a few rules that should be adhered to during the course of a mini-pupillage.

• Expect the day to last from 9am to 5.30pm, but an invitation may be extended to stay later to observe suitable in-house seminars / training sessions that are taking place
• Dress should be a suit or smart dark clothing
• Strict confidentiality must be maintained at all times. Mini-pupils will be asked to sign an agreement respecting this

We hope that those who undertake mini-pupillages at QEB Hollis Whitman find them to be a valuable experience in terms of education and career development.

Applications for mini pupillages should be marked for the attention of the Mini-Pupillage Secretary, Philip Stott. Applications are by way of CV and covering letter by post (enclosing SAE) or by email via barristers@holliswhiteman.co.uk