"I have found that “giving back” has been one of the most rewarding things about doing pro bono work. I’m glad to have been there to help people who would have otherwise not had any representation if it were not for organisations such as Advocate."
Pupil barrister Adam Singh Hayer from Unit Chambers in Liverpool has shared with us about why he decided to take on the pupil pledge with Advocate, giving advice to other pupil barristers.
How did you first get involved with Advocate and pro bono work?
I first got involved with Advocate and pro bono work having read about the positive work which Advocate do as an organisation and their “25 for 25” Challenge, where individuals pledged to do 25 hours of pro bono work to celebrate Advocate’s 25th anniversary.
Why did you decide to sign up to the Pupil Pledge?
I signed up for the Pupil Pledge because I wanted to motivate myself to ensure that I was involved in pro bono work during my pupillage.
Pupillage itself is all about learning and development. Advocate’s Pupil Pledge has allowed me to further develop my professional skillset by taking on work which perhaps I would not usually be instructed on, given that certain cases that Advocate deals with do not qualify for public funding.
What have you found most rewarding about doing pro bono work?
I have found that “giving back” has been one of the most rewarding things about doing pro bono work. I’m glad to have been there to help people who would have otherwise not had any representation if it were not for organisations such as Advocate.
What advice would you give to any pupil barrister unsure about whether to start pro bono work?
To paraphrase Tesco, “every little bit does help”. Whether assisting at a FDHRA in family proceedings or covering a pre-trial hearing, every bit of pro bono work is invaluable to those who need your help.
Advocate also enables you to be partnered up with a mentor if you need someone to assist you or help you in any of the work which you do through Advocate. I would highly recommend any pupil to take part in pro bono work as the difference you can make to a case is invaluable.