Barristers' stories
A real ‘feel good’ moment: A pupil barrister on the value of pro bono both for clients and counsel
Family law pupil barrister Beth Payne of QEB offers her personal and professional reflections on the value of pro bono work. Through Advocate’s Pupil Pledge, she gained hands-on courtroom experience, developed her client care skills, and helped secure a positive outcome for a family in need of free legal help. At a time of growing demand for pro bono work, she reminds us how impactful pro bono work can be, both for those who need it and those who provide it.
Fulfilling multiple goals through a single action: Hear from reviewer Adam Al-Attar KC on the value of volunteering
Adam Al-Attar KC reflects on how a simple recommendation from a senior colleague led to a rewarding journey volunteering with Advocate. From reviewing the merits of cases seeking help through Advocate to taking them on, he highlights how pro bono work not only sharpens legal skills but broadens professional exposure - especially for commercial practitioners.
"One of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of being a lawyer": Marc Willers KC’s story
Marc Willers KC of Garden Court Chambers, highly commended for this year’s Pro Bono KC of the Year Award 2025, shares about the value of pro bono work to marginalised communities and the new opportunities that pro bono work can open to barristers.
Advocacy beyond the workplace: Calum Macdonald’s pro bono journey
Calum Macdonald of the Financial Conduct Authority shares how he first got involved with Advocate and pro bono work as an employed barrister, and the rewards of doing so.
Abdallah Barakat's story
Abdallah Barakat of 9 Park Place Chambers is a young barrister based in Wales. Abdallah has taken on pro bono work ever since his pupillage. He also volunteers at the Cardiff University Innocence Project. Below Abdallah shares more about why he decided to incorporate pro bono work into his practice, how to take it on with Advocate, and the need for pro bono legal support in Wales.
Silk story - Michael Jones KC
Michael Jones KC is an Advocate Reviewer and Panel Member who has assisted on a number of Advocate's family cases, one of our largest areas of law requiring assistance. He encourages other Silks from the family Bar to take on pro bono work and discusses the rewards and opportunities pro bono work provides.
