Bar Society
The Bar Society is a student-led legal organisation at the University of Southampton that deals with student exposure to the legal profession and guidance for students looking to pursue a career at the Bar or elsewhere. We aim to give a range of opportunities so that students can decide whether a career in law, particularly at the Bar, is something they wish to pursue. To this end, we provide weekly events designed to improve employability by developing transferrable skills such as public speaking, networking and writing. To do this, we hold regular legal career orientated events such as mooting competitions, networking socials and skills workshops. We also offer a taste of professional legal culture with trips to the four Inns of Court in London and the major courts there. There is something for everyone at Inns. Whether you are looking for serious professional development or just a friendly bunch with which to socialise - we are the society for you!
The Bar Society:
Huge congratulations on securing a place at the University of Southampton Law School! This is a massive achievement and a result of all your hard work. On behalf of the Bar Society Committee and all its members, we are delighted to welcome you to the University and into our society.
The Bar Society is student-led. This means we can use our own experiences to shape what route our society takes. This year, we are focusing on demystifying the route to becoming a barrister, as we realise it can sound like a very daunting prospect. Becoming a barrister is a competitive endeavour, so we hope not only to educate you on what steps to take but to help you enhance your CV by offering a variety of events to make your CV stand out above the rest!
Semester Events:
Semester One:
| Semester 1: | |
| 'From Southampton to the Bar' talks | Come and listen to Southampton alumni who now have a career at the Bar! They'll talk about their time at Southampton, what followed, and what they believe are essential skills for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in the legal sphere. 6th October - Derek Marshall (College Chambers) and Devonte Smith (Henderson Chambers) 20th October - Dr Chelvan (33 Bedford Row) |
| Speed Moot Competition | Get your first taste of mooting (presenting a legal argument in court) at our internal competition! The winner receives a cash prize as well as a place in this year's Southampton National Moot against other unis. This competition is also a great way to practice for the compulsory first year moot in the Semester 2 Legal Skills module. |
| BPP Events | Sign up to virtual BPP events (https://www.bpp.com/events) through BarSoc to learn more about a career in law. Anyone who attends 3+ events this term could have a chance at winning the BarSoc Lottery. |
| Bar Society Annual Christmas Ball [Joint with LawSoc] | A chance to celebrate the end of term! |
Semester Two:
| Semester 2: | |
| Southampton National Moot: | We invite teams from various universities and postgraduate courses to compete in a mooting competition. With practising solicitors and barristers acting as judges, it is a great opportunity to receive feedback and to pick up tips from other mooters. |
| Trip to One Essex Court: | The opportunity to go to London and network with barristers from a leading Commercial set an evening reception. |
| Trip to Inns of Court | The Four Inns of Court host evening dinners for university students. These evenings often include talks, followed by a dinner with barristers and members of the judiciary, providing an excellent opportunity to network and find out more about the professions. |
| Bar Society Annual Summer Ball [Joint with LawSoc] | TBC |
The Committee
All clubs and societies within the Students' Union are run entirely by students. The student committee for Bar Society this year are:
Moot Co-ordinator
Moot Co-ordinator
President
Secretary
Treasurer
Vice President
Membership Information
These are the current membership fees offered by Bar Society , although many clubs and societies offer a free period for new members to try out their activities.
| Name | Cost | Valid Period | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Year Membership (Joint with Bar Society) | £25.00 | 24/09/2022 - 30/06/2024 | 2-Year Membership to both Law Society and Bar Society | |
| 1-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership | £15.00 | 25/09/2023 - 30/06/2024 | 1-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership | |
| 2-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership | £25.00 | 25/09/2023 - 30/06/2025 | 2-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership | |
| 3-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership | £35.00 | 25/09/2023 - 30/06/2026 | 3-Year Law Society & Bar Society Membership |
Constitution
All SUSU clubs & societies must have a Constitution which governs how they run
Download ConstitutionHealth & Safety
All clubs & societies are required to risk assess their activity to ensure it is carried out in a safe manner for members. Current risk assessments for Bar Society are available to view below
Upcoming Events
Check out our upcoming events below:
