Name: Robert Ward Chambers: Quadrant Chambers Location: London University: University of Oxford Degree: Law
being self-employed,” he says. “The biggest challenge is that there is no off switch because often, the decision as to how much you work is purely up to you and you want to do a good job.” A changing world Are there any wider issues affecting the commercial Bar that aspiring barristers should know about? “The landscape of commerce is always changing,” he says, highlighting that “the consequences of covid-19 and the lockdowns imposed as a result of it are creating various challenges for businesses. I have dealt with a number of cases where my advice has been sought as to the impact of the pandemic on contractual obligations. And as always in the law, we are to a certain extent dealing with yesterday’s problems, but there is no telling what yesterday’s problems will be the day after tomorrow.” To face these challenges and keep up with a changing world, he believes the Bar needs to continue to modernise. “This means being ever more inclusive and diverse,” he argues, “as well as staying connected with global, political and financial developments to remain relevant and continue to be a source of legal expertise and high-quality advocacy.” Robert signs off with some advice for future barristers: “obtaining pupillage at the Bar is becoming ever more competitive, so think carefully about where your strengths and interests lie. Being a commercial barrister is well suited to those who enjoy in-depth research into the detail and are strong communicators on paper as well as in oral advocacy. There is perhaps less time spent in court than in other areas of law, but more time delving into tricky legal problems.”
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