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Diary of a Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries

"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" with your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward
Welcome to “The Diary of a Barrister – The Lawyer Diaries”, your weekly dose of candid conversations, career advice, and insider insights on all things law, hosted by Chelsea Brooke-Ward. Chelsea is an award-winning Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, one of the largest sets in the North East, and she’s here to demystify the legal world for those determined to break into it — and thrive.

Each episode, Chelsea shares her journey from a non-traditional, non-legal background to building a successful career at the Bar. Expect raw, honest, and inspiring episodes as she opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it really takes to stand out in this competitive profession.

Along the way, Chelsea will be joined by a range of guests — from aspiring barristers and legal professionals to trailblazing role models — offering a 360° view of what life in law looks like, and the many paths to success. You’ll hear stories of setbacks, resilience, and breakthroughs, all packed with practical tips you can use right now.

Whether you’re navigating pupillage applications, chasing scholarships, preparing for interviews, or already working in the legal field and striving to push boundaries — this is the podcast for you. It’s smart, empowering, and unfiltered.

"The Diary of Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries" is your go-to resource for a weekly dose of knowledge, motivation, and practical advice. Whether you're a law student with big dreams , an aspiring lawyer seeking to break barriers, or lawyer wanting to smash glass ceilings this is your podcast, your trusted companion on this remarkable journey into the legal world.

Subscribe now and let Chelsea be your mentor in your ears — motivating, informing, and cheering you on every step of the way. Success in law begins with knowledge, and this podcast is your key to unlocking a bright future in the legal field.

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Diary of a Barrister - The Lawyer Diaries

Wigs, Gowns and Wages - The Realities of the Self Employed Barrister

June 30, 2025 • Chelsea Brooke-Ward & Brad Graves • Season 2 • Episode 3

In this episode of Diary of a Barrister, Lawyer Diaries your host Chelsea Brooke-Ward, delves into a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and concern for aspiring barristers: the financial realities of making a living at the bar. As an Employment Barrister at Park Square Barristers, Chelsea aims to provide insight and clarity on what it truly means to earn a living in this profession, particularly for those considering a career in civil private practice.

Chelsea begins by addressing a common question posed by law students and those on work experience: "If you get pupillage, will you be able to afford to live?" This question is crucial, as many junior barristers face financial challenges, especially in the early stages of their careers. Chelsea emphasises that earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as location and practice area, particularly between those who work in legal aid versus private practice.

Throughout the episode, Chelsea shares her personal experiences and insights, highlighting that approximately 80% of barristers are self-employed. This status comes with both advantages and disadvantages, including the responsibility of managing one's own finances, tax returns, and expenses. She discusses the importance of budgeting for taxes, the implications of being VAT registered, and the various costs associated with running a practice, such as chambers fees, insurance, and practicing certificates.

Chelsea also touches on the unpredictability of income in the barrister profession, explaining how billing does not always equate to immediate payment. She shares her own journey through pupillage, detailing the financial grants available and the transition from shadowing to earning during the second six months. She discusses that her first-year earnings serve as a benchmark, illustrating the potential for growth and the variability of income based on hard work and dedication.

Moreover, Chelsea candidly discusses the challenges of self-employment, including the lack of benefits such as sick pay and holiday pay, and the necessity of planning for unexpected events. She stresses the importance of hard work, networking, and providing value to clients as key factors in achieving financial success at the bar.

By the end of the episode, hopefully she demystifies (in civil practice) the financial landscape of being a barrister and provides a realistic expectation for those considering this career path. Chelsea encourages listeners to understand that while the journey can be daunting, with determination and effort, it is possible to earn a comfortable living in this prestigious field.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Diary of a Barrister. If you found this discussion helpful, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore the intricacies of a career in law.