Marshalling & Mentoring

Marshalling Scheme

Marshalling involves a student accompanying a judge at a particular court over a one to three day period. It allows students to gain a real insight into the daily workings of the court, and how judges consider and manage cases. It also deepens understanding of the law. Our judicial members participating in the scheme do so voluntarily and warmly receive marshals, who have the chance to see court proceedings from a whole new perspective. Students are also able to discuss the case with the judge, give opinions and, most importantly, learn from those at the court.

Please note the following:

• Do not apply unless you are eligible (i.e. you are a current Bar Course student).
• Only submit the application form once, multiple entries will be ignored.
• Please note that we will do our best to accommodate as many students as possible, however placements cannot be guaranteed.
• Preference will be given to students who have never previously marshalled with a judge in any capacity.
• Although every attempt will always be made to find a placement within your first chosen area of law, this cannot be guaranteed.
• Travel and accommodation will not be reimbursed and is at the discretion of the student.

The scheme is run on a termly basis, the dates of which can be found below. Students’ applications will not be carried over, and they will need to reapply for every term in which they wish to marshal with a judge.

Applications for this scheme will be open for a period of three to four weeks. Following this, successful applicants will be notified and sent the details of the judge with whom they have been matched. It is then their responsibility to organise a placement which works for both themselves and the judge. Those who have been unsuccessful will also be notified. The dates for the application periods in upcoming terms can be found below.

Applications for Easter & Trinity term 2026 are now open. To apply for the scheme, please click here. The deadline to apply will be Monday 13 April at 09:00 am. 

Mentoring Scheme

This scheme is open to all student members who are currently studying on the Bar Course, but is not compulsory. Students on the scheme are matched with a practising barrister who will offer advice on all aspects of a career at the Bar. Students are assigned a mentor for the duration of their Bar Course; therefore early application is advised in order take full advantage of the scheme during their course.

It is entirely up to mentors and their students to decide how and when they meet. There are also opportunities to meet at Domus Dinners throughout the year. Members of the Bar take part in this scheme voluntarily and places are in great demand, so please ensure that you intend to engage fully with the scheme before applying. If you encounter difficulties making contact with your mentor you must inform the Education Department.

Only those currently on the Bar Course are eligible to apply for the scheme. Students who are intending to begin the Bar Course in the next six months may apply for this scheme, however, they will not be matched with a mentor until they begin the course.

Please note the following:

• Although every effort will be made to find a mentor within your first chosen area, this cannot be guaranteed.
• If your contact details change, please let the Inn and your mentor know immediately.
• Mentoring within the Inn is voluntary and unpaid and participation will not affect eligibility for funded pupillage or scholarships.
• A mentor cannot arrange pupillage for you.
• Being allocated a mentor is not necessary for an introduction to a Bencher for Call to the Bar.

Application Form
To apply for the scheme, please complete and submit the application form below.