42BR Barristers' Internship Project 2026

At 42BR Barristers, we are pleased to see modern English society continuing to be shaped by the principle of equality, and by ongoing efforts to facilitate access to the Bar. We recognise, however, that not all forms of equality are the same. There are two types: one that limits and diminishes, and another that uplifts and empowers. The latter lies at the heart of English law, which seeks to ensure that everyone has access to opportunity.

The 42BR Internship was established on these values of equality and opportunity, and as it enters its second year we remain committed to ensuring that talented individuals are able to access the Bar regardless of background.

The Internship policy removes the requirement for references, making it easier for applicants from diverse, non-traditional backgrounds to apply. Recognising that financial barriers exist, the programme also offers funding of up to £2,500. The internship emphasises practical legal learning, including advocacy exercises where interns get to creatively argue a mock case, usually against a pupil in Chambers.

Additional resources, including an optional reading list and CV and interview feedback, are available to support interns during their time with us. Interns are also encouraged to explore historic debates beyond the law, such as the famous 1948 BBC discussion between philosopher Bertrand Russell and Jesuit priest Frederick Copleston. The exchange demonstrates the virtues of clear thinking, intellectual respect, and persuasive argument—qualities that are central to legal advocacy. The reading list also includes a short BBC interview with Lord Sumption on the craft of argument, alongside articles reflecting the experiences and insights of distinguished judges and practitioners, both past and present, including Mark Littman QC, Lord David Pannick KC, Lady Simler, and Lady Justice Andrews.

While it would be unrealistic to expect any one-week programme to transform someone into a finished advocate, the 42BR Internship seeks to inspire and provide genuine opportunity. Several internships have been offered through the 10,000 Black Interns programme, and participants from our first year reported that the experience—particularly the advocacy exercises—was both challenging and rewarding. One intern described the programme as “excellent,” while another wrote to thank Arfan for the “excellent example he set” during her time in Chambers.

Although the internship is particularly valuable for those considering pupillage after their studies, we are proud that it remains open to all applicants.

Applications are now open until Friday 29 May. Please apply by emailing [email protected], Chair of the Internship Committee, with a CV and covering letter. The internship will commence in July, and CVs do not need to include referees.

11th Mar 2026

Arfan Khan

Call 2001