Legal Etiquette
Whether you are on a mini-pupillage, marshalling or during your pupillage, it is important to dress appropriately and professionally, in line with the norms of the profession.
Men should wear a dark suit with a light-coloured shirt and tie. Women should wear a skirt, trouser or dress-suit with a light-coloured shirt or blouse. Smart but comfortable shoes are vital – remember, you could be travelling a reasonable amount each day to and from a court or courts, and back to chambers.
During your first six it will be up to your supervisor as to whether you need to robe for court. To be robed means that you wear a wig, gown and neckwear (a winged collar and bands for men, a collarette for women). Don’t be afraid to ask about dress code in advance – it is always better to know what the expectations are and plan to meet them than worry about appearance.
You will not have much daily interaction with your clerks in your first six, however you should introduce yourself to them as in your second six you will be in contact with them on a daily basis. During your pupillage, as well as completing work for your supervisor and other members of chambers, it is important to attend social and networking events as these allow you to make friends and professional contacts outside your immediate group; in a demanding and sometimes unpredictable profession, building a network will allow you to lean on friends and colleagues for advice and support when you need it.
