An Interview with Barrister of the Year - Phil Gibbs

❖ How did you feel winning Barrister of the Year?

I really was not expecting it. I don't really do self - promotion. I think that I was put forward for the award for mentoring/helping others. That felt great because it is something that I have really pursued and believe to be very worthwhile. The reaction of other barristers has been interesting. Largely underwhelming. 

❖ What was your route to becoming a barrister?

I did a French degree with little thought as to a future career. I guess I had good communication skills. I then discovered that I could convert to Law and thought it would be something where I could do something that really mattered. I was very fortunate to meet a barrister with whom I bonded through a shared love of sport. He got me an interview and fortunately I took the opportunity and worked very hard. Luck does always play a part, but mostly it is about hard work. 

❖ If you could give some useful tips to aspiring barristers, what would they be?

Try to pursue interesting activities beyond the Law. Remember that barristers are choosing/recruiting people they will potentially work with for years to come. One candidate told me that his interest outside of work was reading

Legal text books. The lack of self - awareness was staggering. It is rare to see students at court. They should definitely attend as often as possible to see the job they say they want to do. They should also practice public speaking, not necessarily relating to the Law.  

❖ How has the pandemic impacted the Criminal Justice system, from your perspective?

There were significant advancements in the use of technology and in particular the use of video conferencing, but sadly in the Criminal Justice System we are slipping back into old habits mainly because judges do not like to have barristers on screens. 

❖ What do you see as the biggest achievement, either in or outside of your legal career?

Doing my very best every day for 32 years in the profession. 

❖ What is the most challenging aspect of being a barrister?

Cross - examination. It's the heart of the job. When you see a good one you know that it has involved a lot of thought and preparation. 

❖ What is the most challenging aspect of being a barrister?

I am not sure about that. Many things are amusing in the moment, but are difficult to recapture and do justice to later.

This award was kindly sponsored by The Access Group