WORKING AS A CRIMINAL BARRISTER WORKING AS A CRIMINAL BARRISTER

Criminal law is as nuanced an area of law as any Like all practice areas, it requires specialists Barristers can provide this specialist service, and ensure that those charged in criminal matters have representation who understand the unique challenges and circumstances of their case

Jim Bisas is one such barrister He specialises in indictable and summary crime, and family violence He has worked as a Criminal Law Barrister for 12 years, as well as spending 15 years as a Principal Legal Officer with the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions Jim has also worked as a Judge’s Associate, and in criminal law firms in Melbourne.

Jim provided us with unique insight into how his career in law began

I was always interested in legal practice and the law I was a good public speaker and proficient in English.

My journey into law was preceded by a high level of achievement at HSC level and entry into Melbourne University Law School

Admission to a law school is, however, just the first step in becoming a barrister Upon completion of your law degree, you must be admitted to practice, a process which involves both completion of practical legal training, and a finding that you are a fit and proper person to practice the law. This admission to practice alone does not make you a barrister As barristers are there to be specialist advocates and advisors, their level of qualification must reflect this

To become a barrister in Victoria, you must then also pass the Victorian Bar’s entrance exam, which will qualify you for a place in the Reader’s Course.

The Reader’s Course is an 8-9 week course which is designed to prepare you for life at the Bar The Victorian Bar Association describes how, during the Reader’s Course, ‘Readers are exposed to the anatomy of court and trial practice, including out-ofcourt preparation, interlocutory appearances, opening and closing addresses, the examination and crossexamination of witnesses, legal argument and submissions Emphasis is placed upon the importance of forensic and strategic thinking, developing coherent case theories, anticipating and resolving evidentiary issues, and effective and persuasive communication both orally and in writing.’ Moreover, ‘The Readers’ Course provides a unique opportunity to develop the skills to come to the Bar, make mistakes in a supportive environment, receive constructive feedback, and make lifelong friendships

Upon your successful completion of the Reader’s Course, you must then work at the Victorian Bar under an approved mentor for 9 months It is then that you are eligible to become a part of the Victorian Bar, and begin your career as a barrister

The responsibility of being a legal specialist like a Barrister is reflected by the involved process of being admitted. Upon first learning of this process, it can seem like an arduous task It is important to remember that the practice of law is a journey, and ‘barrister’ is never the first step Do not be discouraged by the work, there are many great aspects of being a barrister We asked Jim what the best part of his job is

The best part of my job is when I achieve a successful outcome for a client in court and the gratitude that flows from that outcome.

The practice of law is rewarding, no matter which area you end up in. All law students, aspiring barristers or not, can benefit from the expertise of these legal specialists Jim gave us some great advice for all prospective legal professionals

I would advise law graduates to gain a broad experience base in many different areas of the law It is helpful to have some practical experience with clients and to have conducted client interviews and taken instructions on a legal matter It is also good to explore all employment options including in house solicitor positions, Government agencies and larger law firms

There are many paths your law journey can take you down Work as a Criminal Law Barrister can, as Jim has advised, be an incredibly fulfilling one