Barristers are expected to complete continuing professional development (CPD) as per the CPD Rules in the BSB handbook.
They are required to complete 45 hours during the first three calendar years of holding a practising certificate after any pupillage year, as part of the New Practitioner Programme (NPP).
After this, as part of the Established Practitioners Programme (EPP), barristers are required to undertake CPD each year in which they hold a practising certificate, after completing the NPP.
To find out more about your obligations when it comes to CPD and its four-stage process, visit: CPD - Continuing Professional Development Guidance (barstandardsboard.org.uk)
Why is CPD important?
The dedication to continuous learning and development is critical for barristers as it enables them to better understand their clients, the ever-changing world, and the emerging trends and advancements in technology that disrupt traditional practices. While legal expertise is typically acquired through hands-on experience and handling cases, engaging in CPD activities can professionally and personally develop you.
Some CPD activities:
taking part in online courses;
attending conferences;
listening to podcasts
taking part in seminars or webinars;
reading or research;
authorship and editing of published works of a professional nature
presenting seminars, lectures and workshops.
The Bar Council has issued a call for greater consistency in remote hearings and increased investment in court technology based on findings from a new report on the administration and delivery of remote justice.
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