Introduction
Lucy Taylor, barrister at Coram Chambers, has been featured in LawCareers.net’s ‘Meet the Lawyer’ profile series. Lucy’s story is a great read for anyone considering a career at the Bar, especially in family law.
Breaking New Ground
Lucy, who read law at the University of Oxford and was called to the Bar in 2023, was the first in her family and social circle to pursue a legal career. She recalls how valuable it would have been to talk to a practitioner before starting her journey. The legal profession, Lucy says, is not always as glamorous as it might appear. There are long train journeys, heavy files to carry, and financial matters to juggle.
Authenticity Matters
Lucy believes her successful application was down to being genuine. She let her personality come through on paper and in interviews. Chambers need to know who they are working with, not just what is written on a CV. Lucy encourages aspiring barristers to be themselves, even if it feels risky.
Facing Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a common hurdle. Lucy admits she struggled with it too. However, she urges others not to let self–doubt stop them from applying for pupillage. Most who succeed at the Bar have faced similar feelings.
Learning and Balancing
As a pupil, Lucy discovered that observing in court often taught her more than taking word–for–word notes. She also found that work/life balance is possible, noting she rarely worked weekends during pupillage. Still, late nights and weekend work can be part of life as a junior barrister, particularly for those keen to build their practice.
Life in Family Law
A typical day for Lucy involves appearing in court and helping people through distressing situations. She meets clients from all walks of life and must explain complex matters clearly. Each day brings different challenges and unexpected turns.
The Challenges and Rewards
Lucy highlights how those outside the Bar rarely understand its unique pressures. The unpredictability of cases and schedules can be tough, but the work is rewarding. She finds that being different, or not fitting a traditional mould, can help her relate to clients and be a better advocate.
Advice for Aspiring Barristers
Lucy’s advice is practical: get as much experience as possible. Mini–pupillages and judge marshalling offer real insight into the profession. She stresses the importance of starting at the bottom and seeing a range of advocacy styles.
Chambers Culture
Describing Coram Chambers as “warm, open and friendly,” Lucy appreciates the supportive environment. She believes work/life balance is within each barrister’s control.
Pupillage Applications Now Open
Aspiring barristers, take note: applications for pupillage at Coram Chambers for 2027 are now open. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading family law set and learn alongside experienced practitioners like Lucy Taylor. Find out more about the application process on our website.
Final Thoughts
Lucy’s biggest lesson is that imposter syndrome may never fully disappear, but it does become easier to handle. Her journey shows that being true to yourself and embracing your background can make you a better barrister.
Read the full feature on Lucy Taylor at LawCareers.net:
Meet the Lawyer – Lucy Taylor, Coram Chambers
