Crucible Pupil Diary: May 2023.

Camila

April was the final month with Clea Topolski as my supervisor and I am incredibly grateful for all her support and guidance. I am delighted to be under the supervision of Ben Rowe for the next stage of second six.

So far, I have appeared in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court for first appearances, mentions, bail applications, PTPH, sentence, summary trials and a successful exceptional hardship application.

In my second week of being on my feet, I was instructed in my first two summary trials. I was appointed by the court to conduct a section 38 cross-examination. The defendant was charged with possession of a bladed article and harassment. After questioning the witness, I offered to do the remainder of the trial pro bono and was pleased to have secured an acquittal. The second trial concerned serious allegations of stalking and certificate for counsel had been obtained. I reviewed considerable pages of evidence and prepared cross-examination for eight witnesses ahead of the 2-day trial. The client was found not guilty. Securing acquittals in my first two trials was an encouraging start to second six.

I recently had my first Crown Court sentence for racially aggravated public disorder offences. The client had been advised of the possibility of an immediate custodial sentence and came prepared for the worst outcome. The sentencing judge determined that he had been persuaded contrary to his initial view that he could not avoid a custodial sentence. A community order was imposed. This was a particularly memorable day. It was stark reminder of the difference advocates can make to the lives of others.

While each days brings its own set of challenges, the first two months of second six have been overwhelmingly positive.

Liam

Possibly the blog you have all been waiting for. Just like that, we are on our feet. I will remember the moment it became real for the rest of my life. A phone call from my Senior Clerk, James Hall, “Mr Chin, Inner London Crown Court for you Monday.” It’s a moment you cannot truly prepare for. The second moment is donning your wig and gown in the robing room as you prepare for your first time on your feet.

Then suddenly comes the realisation that you are in Court alone. You are making the decisions, making the submissions, and giving the advice. You might think it truly terrifying. However, at Crucible you are never really alone, there is always an ocean of knowledge and advice just a phone call away. Not to mention the rigorous training we have completed in Chambers to prepare us for almost every scenario.

As soon as I was on my feet, Ben and I would speak daily. We would discuss strategies at length. It was something that really put me at ease. Ben, as my supervisor, was always naturally my first point of contact, but there is nobody in Chambers that I don’t feel comfortable calling for help. A special thank you must go to Libby, Alex, Justin, Rosalia, and Payton. They have helped me so much as I transitioned from a first six pupil, to a second six pupil. Instantly answering any questions, no matter how stupid they may seem.

The clerks have been amazing at growing my practice. A good range of Magistrates, Crown Court, and Regulatory work. It is both challenging and stimulating. I don’t think I’ve ever read so much in my life or used so much brain power. Yes, the days are long, often working late into the night. But it is overwhelmingly rewarding. Seeing the difference you can make to someone’s life is truly worth all of the effort. The relief on my clients face when I won my first trial was the best feeling in the world.

I am still asked from time to time if I was right to leave a successful previous career as a chef to pursue the Bar. The simple answer is yes, and in many ways, they are very similar. There are certain things I thought I would miss, but the adrenaline rush from being in Court is no different to a busy Saturday kitchen service. The camaraderie of Chambers or even the wider Criminal Bar is no different to that of kitchen brigade. However, I find this new career so much more rewarding. It is safe to say, I absolutely love this job!