Overview

What is a Master of the Bench interview, how do I request one, how do I prepare for one, I've arranged my own interview is there anything I need to send to the Master of the Bench, what if my Master of the Bench is not responding.....

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is a Master of the Bench interview?


The Master of the Bench interview is part of the Call application process. An application will only be complete if a signed interview is attached to your application. 


The purpose of the Master of the Bench interview is to:


  • Verify that you have made understood the Call declaration form and declared anything that may call into question your fit and properness to be called to the Bar. 
  • To give you the opportunity to speak with a more senior member of the Inn 
  • A Master of the Bench must propose your Call to be Bar, therefore, it is quite nice to meet each other beforehand and learn a bit about each other. 

I don't know a Master of the Bench, how do I request an interview?


Don't worry, most applicants do not personally know a Master of the Bench and the Inn will help you find one. 


You will be able to request a Master of the Bench interview via the online application portal. 


If you have requested an interview you will need to pause your application until we have been able to assign you a Master of the Bench to conduct your interview. 


This can sometimes take a few weeks, especially during the summer so it is important that you request an interview as early as possible. 


Once we have found a Master of the Bench for you, you will be sent an email with their contact details so that you can organise a suitable date and time for your interview. 


After the interview you will need to upload your signed interview form. This is sometimes emailed to you after the interview.

I know a Master of the Bench, is there anything I need to give them before the interview?


You need to make sure that you provide your Master of the Bench with your CV, signed Call declaration form and blank interview form (attached at the bottom of this page).

How do I prepare for an interview?


There is no need to prepare for the interview. 


It is courteous to address the Master of the Bench as “Master [Surname]” in both writing and at your interview, unless they request that you address them otherwise.

 

DRESS CODE: You should dress reasonably smartly for the interview if it's in person (e.g., as a guide a smart top is appropriate, but the dark suit normally worn for pupillage, court or mooting is not necessary). If you are having a remote interview, we are not concerned about backgrounds as understand that applicants may be at home, with family or colleagues nearby. Should you be at work and doing this Call interview during a work break, any work uniform would be acceptable. 

Call interviews normally take around 30 minutes.


My Master of the Bench is not responding, what should I do?


If you haven't heard from your Master of the Bench in 7 working days and you have not received an out of office, please feel free to send them a follow up email. 


If you have not heard from them another 7 days from that follow up email please contact the Education Engagement Co-ordinator (call@innertemple.org.uk) who will be able to check with the Master of the Bench as your email may have gone to their junk/spam inbox.