Pupillage Vacancy Information
About Authorised Education and Training Organisation and Structure of Pupillage
Unit Chambers: A Leading Family Law Barristers Chambers
Unit Chambers is a dynamic, forward-thinking family law barristers chambers based in Liverpool and with an additional office in Manchester. Specialising exclusively in family law, we provide expert advocacy and representation across a broad range of areas, including public and private children law, complex care proceedings, financial remedies, and international family law matters. Our barristers are renowned for their expertise, passion, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients, whether they are local authorities, parents, or guardians.
At Unit Chambers, we pride ourselves on our collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering a supportive environment that fosters both professional and personal development. We are committed to championing equality, diversity, and inclusion in every aspect of our work.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking driven and enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about family law and dedicated to making a difference. Whether you're a recent law graduate or transitioning from another legal area, we welcome applicants who have a strong academic record, outstanding advocacy skills, and a genuine commitment to the values of justice and equality.
Pupillage at Unit Chambers offers the opportunity to work alongside leading family law practitioners, gain exposure to a wide variety of complex cases, and receive invaluable training and mentorship. If you're ready to launch a rewarding career at the Family Bar with a chambers that genuinely values your development and future, we'd love to hear from you.
Pupillage Programme at Unit Chambers
At Unit Chambers, our pupillage programme offers a comprehensive and structured introduction to life at the Family Bar. As a specialist family law set, we ensure that our pupils gain hands-on experience across all areas of family law, including public and private children law, financial remedy disputes, complex care proceedings, and international family law matters.
The programme is divided into two key stages:
- First Six: During this non-practising period, you will work closely with our experienced barristers, observing hearings, drafting documents, and assisting with case preparation. You'll receive one-on-one mentorship, ensuring you build a solid foundation of knowledge in family law and court procedures. Regular feedback and reviews will be part of your journey to help refine your skills and prepare for the second six.
- Second Six: This practising stage allows you to take on your own caseload, represent clients in court, and actively apply what you’ve learned. You'll handle cases under the guidance of your supervisor and be encouraged to develop your advocacy skills, all while receiving ongoing support from our team.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from practical exposure to a wide range of cases and attend both formal and informal training sessions. Our focus on collaboration, mentorship, and professional development ensures that by the end of your pupillage, you will be well-prepared for tenancy and equipped with the confidence and experience to thrive in a demanding and rewarding career at the Family Bar.
Financial and Other Support Available
Pupillage award £22,019 per annum
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Embracing Diversity and Fostering Inclusion at Unit Chambers
Unit Chambers is a steadfast advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion. We are resolute in our commitment to creating an inclusive work environment that celebrates individuality, promotes respect and ensures equal opportunities for all. Our dedication to these values is unwavering, shaping our culture and practices.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
We believe in the strength that comes from diversity. As an equal opportunities employer, we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, people from minority ethnic origins, people with disabilities and those who are underrepresented in the legal sector. We’re committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure that disabled candidates can fully showcase their potential.
Lyan Chan, our dedicated Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Kristine Lidgerwood, our Neurodiversity Officer, play instrumental roles in upholding and implementing our Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy.
Empowering Principles: Our Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy
Our annually reviewed Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy encompasses our commitment to translating principles into tangible action. This policy serves to community our unwavering dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment to our members, employees and service users.
A Resolute Stand Against Discrimination
At Unit Chambers, we stand firmly against discrimination based on:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marital or civil partnership status
- Pregnancy or maternity
- Race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Fair Treatment for All
Every individual, regardless of their purpose within Unit Chambers, is treated fairly. Discrimination is not tolerated in any form, including membership, employment, pupillage and work experience applications. Our decisions on recruitment, promotion, training, compensation and more are made impartially, aligning with the principles of our policy.
Rooted in Law and Values
Our policy draws strength from legal obligations, principles and guidance outlined in the Equality Act 2010 and the related Codes of Practice. Moreover, it reflects our profound commitment to respecting fundamental human rights and complying with anti-discrimination laws.
Pioneering Positive Change
We recognise that promoting equal opportunities isn’t just ethical – it’s also exemplary management practice. This policy enables us and our associates to unleash our full potential, fostering respect for the intrinsic worth of every individual within Unit Chambers.
Our Commitment to Gender Equality: Signatories of the Women in Law Pledge
As part of our dedication to equality, Unit Chambers is proud to be a signatory of the Women in Law Pledge, an initiative by the Bar Council, The Law Society, and CILEx. This Pledge underscores our commitment to advancing gender equality, eliminating sex discrimination, and making positive changes within the legal profession.
By signing the Women in Law Pledge, we have formalised our responsibility to ensure equal opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups at all levels. We pledge to continue driving efforts to support women’s progression in law and to challenge barriers that stand in the way of gender equality.
A Continued Journey
Our pursuit of equality, diversity and inclusion is an ongoing journey. With our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Neurodiversity Officer at the helm, we are continually exploring ways to enhance our practices and cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity and championing inclusion.
At Unit Chambers, we’re not just fostering a diverse community; we’re building a brighter future – one that embraces the unique contributions of every individual. Join us today to be part of a legal journey that values you for who you are.
How to Apply
All applications must be sent directly to us, not through the Gateway.
All applicants must send a covering letter and a CV and all applications must be sent to our Head of Chambers, Lisa Edmunds, lisaedmunds@unit.law with the subject line ‘Pupillage Application – [Your Name] – [Proposed Year of Pupillage]’.
