Applications & Selections

We offer up to two fully-funded pupillages each year. As we seek to recruit only pupils that we perceive to be strong candidates for tenancy, we will occasionally offer only one pupillage.

Littleton is a member of the Pupillage Portal. Please go to www.pupillages.com for details as to application requirements and timetable.

Many applicants, particularly those who have studied law at degree level, prefer to apply in the Spring prior to commencement of the BVC. Successful candidates in this position can undertake the BVC with the benefit of an advance of part of their pupillage award (if desired) and in the knowledge that they have a place at which they can complete the vocational stage of their training. We are, however, equally happy to receive applications from candidates who have commenced or completed the BVC.

Our process generally comprises the following stages:

• Sifting of applications. Initially we are looking for academic excellence, evidence of potential advocacy skills, and a genuine and considered interest in the bar in general and Littleton in particular.
• First round interview. As with all of our interviews, candidates will be presented with a legal problem question which they will be asked to discuss with an interviewing panel. The problems are designed to test legal reasoning, advocacy skills and potential, rather than detailed knowledge of authorities. We take account of the fact that non-law graduates may have had a less thorough training in legal principles.
• Mini-pupillage. This is, perhaps, the most important part of our selection process. Successful candidates are invited to spend three days at Littleton, during which they will see the work of a junior tenant, have the chance to interact with clerks and tenants, and will gain exposure to solicitors and clients. You are likely to meet some Members of Chambers informally over lunch and we usually have a short drinks event at the end of the three days. During the course of the mini pupillage you will be asked to draft an opinion on a problem question and then asked to discuss it in an interview setting. Whilst we consider it preferable for candidates to spend the full three days in Chambers, we are able to discuss alternative arrangements with those who reach this stage but would have difficulty in attending Chambers for the full period.
• Final interview. The final interview follows the same format as the first round interview using a different problem question.

We appreciate that our selection process is fairly rigorous. This is because we only recruit pupils whom we think are very likely to be offered tenancy at the end of the pupillage year. Offers will be made as early as possible, in accordance with the Pupillage Portal timetable. Our usual minimum academic requirement is a 2:1 degree. We will consider applications from candidates who have not attained this standard only in exceptional circumstances. Any such circumstances should be clearly identified and explained on your application form.

We value equality and diversity and we welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and all sectors of the community. Candidates for pupillage and for tenancy are assessed solely on the grounds of merit. If you are disabled and require any adjustments to be made at any stage of the application and selection process then please inform us of this and we will attempt to accommodate your needs.