Marshalling is one of the most valuable experiences an aspiring barrister can undertake.
Last August, on a warm summer morning, I arrived at Bristol Crown Court to spend a week shadowing a Circuit Judge. It was an opportunity to see the criminal justice system from a perspective that very few people ever experience.
Marshalling involves spending time with a judge, observing hearings and gaining insight into how cases unfold. The length of the placement depends on the judge, but even a few days can be incredibly useful. It is similar to a mini pupillage in that it gives you direct exposure to advocacy, courtroom dynamics and judicial reasoning.
Why should I marshal?Marshalling is an important part of building a strong application for pupillage or an Inns of Court scholarship. Committees look for evidence of courtroom experience, and marshalling sits alongside mini pupillages and mooting as a key indicator of commitment. It also helps you understand what good advocacy looks like, which is essential for anyone aiming to practise at the Bar.
How do I obtain marshalling experience?I secured my placement by emailing a judge whose contact details I received from a fellow student.
Networking can be invaluable. I sent my CV and a short covering letter explaining why I wanted to marshal and what I hoped to learn.
If you do not have a direct contact, you can reach out to your local Crown Court or County Court to ask about opportunities. Many judges are willing to take on students. If you are already a member of an Inn of Court, you can apply through their marshalling programme. If you are not yet a member, you can join an Inn, although this will affect where you can apply for BPTC scholarships.
What other benefits does marshalling bring?Beyond strengthening your CV, marshalling gives you a rare chance to speak with a judge about advocacy. Judges see excellent and poor advocacy every day. Many have spent years practising at the Bar before joining the Bench. Their insight into persuasion, courtroom presence and case strategy is invaluable.
Marshalling also allows you to see the courtroom from the judge’s perspective. You may be invited to sit beside the judge during hearings. From this position you can observe the barristers, the jury and the defendant. You also see that judges are human beings with ordinary concerns, even if they appear stern in court.
What might marshalling involve?During my week at Bristol Crown Court I observed bail applications, pleas in mitigation, sentencing hearings and a full trial. I read the case papers before the trial, watched the evidence unfold and discussed the appropriate sentence with the judge after the verdict. Judges can be candid behind closed doors, offering insight into the workings of the justice system and even their views on senior figures in government.
What if I cannot get marshalling experience?If you cannot marshal, you can still learn a great deal by sitting in the public gallery. Most hearings are open to the public. Court staff and even barristers often notice dedicated students and may discuss the case with you. This also demonstrates your commitment to becoming a barrister.
One of the most striking things I heard during my time at Bristol Crown Court came from a prosecutor.
In a case involving a sixty-year-old defendant with serious health problems, he said that vulnerability is the daily currency of the criminal courts. The Crown Court deals with vulnerable victims, witnesses and defendants every day. It is a reminder that the justice system is complex, human and often sobering.
Regardless of where you sit in the courtroom, spending time observing the courts is invaluable. It is inspiring, challenging and essential for anyone who wants to understand how advocacy and justice truly operate.
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