Crucible Pupillage Blog - Shifra Moriarty.

We are very pleased to bring you our second Pupillage Blog, this time from Shifra Moriarty. Shifra and Evie have just finished their first three months as a Crucible Pupil. If you would be interested in following in their footsteps please do apply to us via the Pupillage Gateway - Applications are open now!

A Day in the Life of a Crucible Pupil

A day in the life starts the evening before. I’ve prepared my lunch, as a day in the criminal courts can be unpredictable. The court’s adjournment time and proximity to a café is uncertain - and the break might involve a client meeting in the cells. I’ve packed my robes and I’m clear on the structure for tomorrow. I’m ready and excited for the day ahead...

The first three months of pupillage has been a stimulating and rewarding induction into the criminal Bar. Under the guidance of my inspiring pupil supervisor, Andrew Frymann, I've observed and experienced a wide range of general criminal cases at various stages including the importation of firearms, RASSO and s18 GBH. I’ve also been fortunate to join other brilliant advocates in chambers with specialist areas including regulatory police misconduct with Leila Gaskin and contested POCA proceedings with Neil Hawes KC. Each case has provided new opportunities to develop my skills and confidence at the Bar. I enjoy the variety and challenge of each day, which may include PTPHs, bail applications in the Magistrates’ Court, complex drugs conspiracy cases and plenty in-between. Alongside courtroom advocacy, the day involves conferences (with both lay and professional clients) and discussions with opposing counsel. This has provided holistic insight into criminal litigation and the importance of adaptable advocacy skills.

Furthermore, I have been encouraged to contribute to cases. This has included conducting legal research for Andrew and other members of chambers. I have been able to assist with drafting skeleton arguments, advices on charge, and court notes. Identifying key authorities and applying them to live issues during hearings is satisfying, particularly when those submissions influence the direction of the case. I receive clear feedback, which has helped to refine my approach and recognise areas for improvement.

Outside of court, we are well underway with Crucible’s in-house advocacy course. This has included making an application to dismiss, delivering opening or closing speeches and bad character applications. We continue to build on our learning through a hypothetical case. I am truly grateful to each member for their time in providing thoughtful and constructive feedback. Advocates kindly draw on their own cases, enabling our learning to be grounded in their practical experiences and insight. Each member is committed to our training and the supportive network reflects the values which are fundamental to Crucible’s culture.

At the end of the day - perhaps between dinner and a quick gym session - I reflect and complete my daily tracker. This is my record of case specific observations, interesting legal principles, advocacy techniques and personal feedback. I have found maintaining one to be an excellent practice for developing a reflective approach to learning and recognising the steep trajectory since day 1! While I am acutely aware that we are approaching the halfway point of training, I continue to enjoy each day and feel more confident and prepared with every passing week.