Chambers is delighted to announce that three new 12-month pupils have started pupillage at 33BR. Abbie Leghorn, Patrick Sharkey and Tyler Smith began their first-sixes on 7th October 2024. We sat down with them to hear more about their backgrounds, why they chose pupil 33BR and what their hopes and aspirations are for pupillage.
Abbie Leghorn
Can you describe your career to date?
I completed a Master of Laws in Bar Vocational Studies at City, University of London, after achieving a First Class Honours Degree in Law from the University of Leicester. I am currently undertaking an MA in Medical Law at King’s College London.
Alongside my studies, I worked as a County Court Advocate representing clients in a plethora of civil claims including, inter alia, possession hearings, pre-trial proceedings, and small claim trials. I volunteered with the Prisoners Advice Service, where I provided free legal advice and information on Prison Law.
Why did you choose pupillage at 33BR?
Pupillage at 33BR will allow me to explore and be continually challenged in multiple areas of the law, which will provide me with a strong grounding as a practitioner.
My experience during my mini-pupillage and the positive interview process that Chambers facilitated, confirmed to me that 33BR is a Chambers where I can thrive as my authentic self. Undertaking pupillage in Chambers’ friendly and supportive environment will ensure I gain the most out of my training.
What are your hopes and aspirations for pupillage?
I am excited about the opportunities that pupillage at 33BR will offer. I hope to deepen my knowledge, apply my skills to a range of practice areas, and contribute meaningfully to Chambers and the wider legal community.
Patrick Sharkey
Can you describe your career to date?
I studied Law at the University of Manchester. Following this, I worked globally in finance, firstly for UBS Investment Bank in New York and subsequently for AMP Limited in Melbourne. I then returned to law, completing a Human Rights LL.M. at the University of Edinburgh. Whilst at Edinburgh, I represented the University in the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot. I was also selected from my cohort to undertake an internship at the Danish Institute Against Torture.
Why did you choose pupillage at 33BR?
I chose to undertake my pupillage at 33BR because of the quality and breadth of work available. It was particularly exciting to have the possibility of experiencing work across such a wide variety of areas, including work with an international dimension. I was also attracted by the fact that 33BR ran regular advocacy workshops for its pupils. Not only does this present a great opportunity to improve my skills before embarking on my second six, but it also indicated to me the commitment that 33BR had to putting their pupils in the best possible position to succeed.
What are your hopes and aspirations for pupillage?
My hopes for pupillage are to experience as many new areas of law as possible, and be in court as much as possible during my second six to hone my advocacy skills.
Tyler Smith
Can you describe your career to date?
Completing the Bar Practice Course at the esteemed University of Law- London Bloomsbury was a significant accomplishment for me, graduating with a Very Competent grade in May 2023. Prior to this, I had earned my LLB from the prestigious University of Durham in July 2022.
Following the successful completion of the Bar Practice Course, from July 2023 I had the opportunity to work at Lewis Nedas Law, a renowned Legal 500 firm, as a paralegal in their Crime department. In that role, I had the privilege of supporting Directors, Partners and Legal Executives on high-profile criminal cases involving a diverse range of serious offences.
My time at Lewis Nedas Law allowed me to further develop my legal skills and gain valuable hands-on experience in the field of criminal law. I am committed to delivering exceptional legal services and am dedicated to pursuing a successful career at the Bar.
Why did you choose pupillage at 33BR?
I was fortunate to collaborate with many talented members of Chambers during my time at Lewis Nedas Law. Each person generously offered words of encouragement and invaluable advice to support me on my path to the bar. The Clerks at 33BR consistently go the extra mile to champion their barristers and uphold the ethos of the Chambers. This dedication greatly impressed me, as I believe it will lead to a consistent flow of engaging cases for instruction.
What are your hopes and aspirations for pupillage?
I am eager to enhance my advocacy abilities with the support and mentorship of esteemed and highly-regarded barristers specialising in criminal law. Working alongside instructing solicitors, I have gained valuable experience in acquiring and developing essential legal skills to effectively represent clients in court proceedings.