Criminal law barristers under pressure in the UK

Interesting article here from the Guardian, which takes a look at compensation for criminal barristers. The article points out that only a tiny proportion of criminal law barristers are earning top salaries, and that the rest of the industry is under pressure: Government incentives have led solicitors to conduct basic court advocacy themselves, leading to a fall in demand for the services of younger barristers; and the government has recently announced plans to cut £350 million from the legal aid budget. Trainees can get paid just £10,000 annually, and do not rise above the £20,000 mark for some years. While many have decided to leave the profession, those that are willing to stay often need to diversify into other areas to support themselves in their junior years.

Criminal law barristers under pressure in the UK guardian.co.uk Thu, Apr 21, 2011