BSB reports rising number of barristers undertaking pupillage

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For the third year in a row, more barristers are undertaking pupillage, according to the 2024 Regulatory Decisions annual report published by the Bar Standards Board (BSB).

The data shows that 614 barristers began their pupillages in 2023/24, a notable increase on 535 in 2022/23, 539 in 2021/22 and 416 in 2020/21. The report also found a 25% increase in applications for authorisation to practice, with more than 40% of these coming from qualified lawyers seeking to transfer to the Bar.

BSB research also shows that social media-related issues have decreased, with reports falling from 115 to 88, although the regulator acknowledges that “any regular user of X (formerly Twitter) will confirm that this remains a highly controversial area”. Additionally, reports of sexual harassment and misconduct have also declined, from 16 cases to seven. Despite decreases in these areas, the BSB received 1,724 reports, which is similar to last year’s figure (1,731). In 2023/24, family law generated the highest number of reports, followed by criminal law. Of the cases reaching a disciplinary tribunal, 33 out of 39 were proved.