Creating a compelling CV as a barrister is crucial to making a strong impression on potential employers or chambers. Your CV should not only highlight your legal expertise and professional experience but also reflect your dedication and passion for law. Follow this detailed guide to craft a CV that stands out.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Barrister CV
Choose the Right Format:
Start with a clean, professional layout.
Use a standard font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 11 or 12.
Keep sections clearly defined with bold headings.
Craft a Strong Personal Profile:
Place your personal profile at the top of the CV.
Keep it concise, around 4-5 lines.
Highlight your key strengths, areas of expertise, and career ambitions.
Example: “An accomplished barrister with over 10 years of experience in criminal and family law, known for a strong courtroom presence and a track record of successful case resolutions. Committed to delivering client-focused legal solutions and upholding the highest ethical standards.”
Highlight Key Skills:
List skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Use bullet points for clarity.
Include both hard skills (e.g., legal research, case management) and soft skills (e.g., negotiation, public speaking).
Example:
Extensive experience in criminal litigation and family law.
Proficient in legal research and case analysis.
Strong negotiation and advocacy skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication.
Detail Your Chronological History:
List your professional experience in reverse chronological order.
Include job title, employer, and dates of employment.
Describe your roles and responsibilities in bullet points, focusing on achievements and impacts.
Example:
Senior Barrister, ABC Chambers, London (Jan 2015 – Present)
Represented clients in high-profile criminal cases with a 90% success rate.
Led a team of junior barristers in preparing complex case files.
Successfully argued motions and conducted trials in both Magistrates and Crown Court.
Showcase Key Achievements:
Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your competence and impact.
Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., “Successfully reduced client sentences by an average of 25%”).
Tailor achievements to align with the role you’re seeking.
Example:
Achieved a landmark judgment in the High Court that set a precedent in family law.
Secured acquittals in 80% of defended cases over the last three years.
List Your Qualifications and Education:
Include your law degree, professional qualifications, and any relevant training.
Mention any additional certifications or courses that enhance your legal expertise.
Example:
Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), University of Law, London (2012)
LLB (Hons) Law, King’s College London (2010)
Mediation Training Certificate, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (2018)
Include Your Hobbies and Interests:
Adding a hobbies section can showcase your personality and soft skills.
Choose hobbies that reflect skills relevant to law (e.g., debating, public speaking).
Example:
Member of the London Debate Club, frequently participating in public speaking competitions.
Volunteer mentor for aspiring law students, offering guidance on career development.
General CV Writing Tips
Be Concise and Relevant: Keep your CV to two pages and include only the most relevant information.
Use Active Language: Start bullet points with action verbs like “led,” “achieved,” “represented.”
Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Tailor for Each Application: Customize your CV for each role to emphasize the skills and experiences most pertinent to the job.
Include Contact Information: Ensure your phone number and email are updated and professional.
Professional Email Address: Use a professional email, ideally with your name included.
Why Consider Hiring an Expert CV Writer?
Crafting a professional CV that captures your skills, experiences, and personality is no small feat. While you can certainly create your own, enlisting the help of expert CV writers offers several advantages:
Save Time: Writing a CV is time-consuming. Professional writers streamline the process, allowing you to focus on preparing for your next career move.
Expert Insight: CV writers understand what recruiters and employers look for in a CV. They tailor your document to stand out in a competitive market.
Impressive Presentation: They ensure your CV is not only well-written but also professionally formatted and structured for maximum impact.
Invest in your future by letting an expert create a standout CV that highlights your unique strengths and qualifications.
Book an appointment today with expert CV writers at CVLondon and take the next step towards your successful legal career!
