We also offer mini-pupillages. Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions and the information on how to apply

Mini-Pupillage FAQ

What does a mini-pupillage involve?

Mini-pupils generally sit with junior members of chambers for two days. This allows you to get a feel for the type of set we are, and the type of work that we do. Mini-pupils get the chance to attend hearings, attend conferences and work on opinions on accessible topics.

Are mini-pupillages assessed?

We do not formally assess mini-pupillages. We believe that mini-pupillage is a chance for you to experience what life is like at the Chancery Bar.

Do you cover the expenses of doing a mini-pupillage?

In suitable cases Chambers will cover the reasonable expenses of attending a mini-pupillage (for example, travel, accommodation or childcare expenses, or lost earnings). If you would like to apply for an award, please see the relevant section on the application form.

In addition, Lincoln’s Inn offers a mini-pupillage grant scheme, which makes grants of up to £500 to cover the costs of attending a mini-pupillage. Please click here for information on the eligibility requirements and how to apply.

When do mini-pupillages take place?

We usually schedule mini-pupillages for March, June, October and December, although we can be flexible where necessary.

When are the deadlines for applications?

The closing date for applications is as follows:

March session – 15 January

June session – 15 April

October session – 15 August

December session – 15 October

Do you need to have studied law to apply for a mini-pupillage?

Yes. The work we do is of a specialised nature and we consider that mini-pupillages will only be beneficial after some time studying the law. If you are a law student, we recommend that you only apply in your second or third year, and preferably after you have studied land law and equity and trusts. If you are planning to convert to law, please do not apply to us until you have started the GDL.

Before you apply, please ensure you have read through the FAQ above.

If you wish to apply, please download a copy of the application form below. Applications should be sent via email to Kmacfarlane@5sblaw.com 

Once you have submitted your application, you will be emailed an acknowledgement. Please submit your application in word format.

As we explain within the above FAQ’s, there are four deadlines each year for submission of mini-pupillage applications: 15 January (for the March session of mini-pupillages), 15 April (for the June session of mini-pupillages), 15 August (for the October session of mini-pupillages) and 15 October (for the December session of mini-pupillages). We do not assess the applications for each session until the relevant deadline has passed.

This is to ensure that applications are assessed on a fair and equal footing. However, it may mean that if, for example, you submit an application on 16 October (after the October deadline), then a number of months will pass until you find out whether you have been successful.