For junior barristers, optimism will have to do in place of a properly funded justice system, says top crime QC

Discouragement from senior colleagues is worsening an “unprecedented recruitment crisis” as high numbers of junior barristers continue to leave criminal practice, the chair of the Criminal Bar Association has said.

Angela Rafferty QC has urged senior criminal barristers to be more encouraging and optimistic with their junior colleagues. However, Rafferty also appears to have admitted that the perceived negativity is well-founded, observing that financial uncertainty caused by massive cuts to legal aid funding is driving the exodus.

It is clear that if we want to have a democratic society with a respectable justice system, legal aid must be restored. With no reversal to the cuts currently in sight, though, Rafferty has urged senior barristers to do what they can in the meantime to support those trying to start out in the profession. She said: “We could highlight the fascinating aspects and high importance of our work and take a few minutes to talk. We could join with our solicitor colleagues in discussing ways to resolve this problem rather than giving up and giving in to a sense of despair – as justified as this would be. We could also try supporting those young lawyers who are committed to a career in criminal law. Many report disheartening conversations and a real lack of inspiration from more senior colleagues. Those of us who are senior will remember how important guidance and encouragement was when we started. Optimism and determination to help costs nothing and can go some way in improving morale.”