Tenancy & Third Six
At the end of your pupillage you will be given the opportunity to apply for tenancy, which is the process by which you join chambers as a permanent member.
The process for applying for tenancy (and the likelihood of you being offered a tenancy) differs between chambers and often involves submitting an application and sometimes taking part in an interview. Approach any interview in the same spirit as an interview for pupillage: know your material, be yourself, and remember that you have come a long way, through a competitive process, to get as far as a tenancy interview.
If you are unsuccessful in obtaining tenancy there are a number of options, the most common of which is to apply for a third six at another chambers. The chambers at which you completed your pupillage may be able to help you in securing a third six. These are advertised on chamber’s websites and the application involves the submission of a CV and covering letter. Having an open, constructive professional relationship with your pupil-supervisor and colleagues in chambers will help when it comes to locating a third six at another chambers, as those who have worked with you during your pupillage should be happy to give you advice.
A third six pupil is given a supervisor; however you will continue to attend court in your own right. At the end of a third six, you are able to apply for tenancy there or move to another chambers to complete another third six. There is no limit to the number of third sixes you can complete.
