Growing practice with purpose: Zoe Bushby on choosing pro bono through Advocate during pupillage

Zoe Bushby of Magdalen Chambers was called to the Bar in 2024 and since the start, she has been committed to undertaking pro bono work. Last year during her second six, she took on a personal injury case pro bono through Advocate, and completed the Pupil Pledge. Below, Zoe shares why she chooses to undertake pro bono work through Advocate to not only give back to others, but also because of the support available, which has in turn helped her develop professionally and gain transferable skills.

During my undergraduate degree I learned about the legal advice desert that exists across the South West, and as soon as I started my second six, I signed up to Advocate to make sure I could assist those needing help to access justice.

Not only does pro bono work allow me to help others, but it has also given me an opportunity to expand my area of practice and gain invaluable skills that help me to be a better barrister.

Whilst undertaking pro bono work, I have been able to further expand my legal knowledge and practice in public law and Judicial review, which is a rare and valuable experience for a pupil in the South West. It is very fulfilling to help clients go from a position where they are panicking and unsure what to do about the difficult situation they are facing, to a position where they have the correct advice and support to move their matter forward and hopefully bring the difficult time in their life to an end.

I have chosen to undertake pro bono work through Advocate because the caseworkers are extremely supportive and there is a mentoring scheme available to provide further support for those wishing to take on more complex cases. The case listings page is also easy to navigate, and the filter feature allows you choose your cases by location, area of law, and you can also pick cases depending on how much work you would like to undertake. For example, this could be providing a simple advice or a phone call, through to full representation.

Through Advocate, there is ample support and opportunities available, and barristers can choose cases based upon the amount of time they are able to give to pro bono cases.

My experience completing pro bono work and the Pupil Pledge through Advocate has been extremely rewarding and insightful. I have been able to help those in need through stressful and complex legal issues, whilst also being able to expand my practice area and develop my transferable skills. My advice to current pupils is to sign up to Advocate as soon as possible to make sure you are able to give back to the community around you and benefit from the amazing support and opportunities available.

-         Zoe Bushby, Magdalen Chambers

Are you about to start your second six? Make sure to sign up to our weekly case list to receive pro bono cases tailored to your interests straight to your inbox. After completing just one piece of pro bono work, you will be eligible for the Pupil Pledge. Find out more and sign up today.

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