Why Aspiring Barristers and Solicitors Should Spend Time in Court

For anyone hoping to build a career as a barrister or solicitor, there are few learning opportunities as valuable as simply sitting in a courtroom.

Attending court as an observer gives aspiring lawyers front-row access to the profession they hope to join. Here’s why it matters.

1. It Reveals the Realities of Practice

When you sit in a public gallery, you see how cases actually unfold: the delays, the last-minute negotiations, the pressure of judicial intervention, and the way advocates react to unexpected developments.

Understanding these practical realities helps you develop realistic expectations about life in practice. It also deepens your appreciation of what good preparation, composure and adaptability truly look like.

2. You See Real-Life Advocacy and Learn From It

Advocacy is a craft. Watching experienced barristers and solicitors in action shows you the techniques that work (and occasionally, those that don’t).

You will see:

• How advocates structure submissions

• How they handle difficult witnesses

• How they respond when things go off-script

• How tone, pacing and clarity can make an advocate persuasive

Observing real advocacy is one of the fastest ways to improve your own instincts, especially if you’re preparing for moots, assessments or the early stages of your legal career.

3. It Can Open the Door to Networking and Shadowing

Court is one of the most natural environments for informal networking. You might have the chance to speak with barristers, solicitors, pupils or trainees before or after a hearing. These conversations can lead to an extra LinkedIn connection, you may find about an event at that person’s firm or chambers, or, if you are very lucky, maybe a shadowing experience.

Most practitioners are friendly and willing to help aspiring lawyers, especially those who demonstrate initiative by attending court. Just pick your moment if you are going to approach a practitioner.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of Court Visits

Speak to an Usher

Court ushers (usually wearing gowns) are often the best people to ask when you arrive. They can tell you:

• Which cases are running

• Whether a particular hearing is suitable for the public gallery

• Where to sit and what to expect

They are used to students and observers, so don’t be afraid to approach them politely.

Sit in the Public Gallery

This is where members of the public can observe proceedings without disrupting the court. Sitting here allows you to see and hear everything while remaining unobtrusive.

Turn Your Phone Off or on Silent

Courts take interruptions seriously. A ringing phone can disrupt proceedings and leave a very poor impression, so make sure your device is silent before entering.

Final Thoughts

Attending court is one of the simplest, most effective ways for aspiring lawyers to deepen their understanding of the profession. It exposes you to the real world of advocacy, helps you learn from experienced practitioners and may even open doors to valuable networking opportunities.