Hotcourses asked criminal barrister Daniel Jameson about the day-to-day challenges and pressures of a criminal law career…

Name: Daniel Jameson
Job description: Criminal Barrister, Furnival Chambers

“My chambers are based near Chancery Lane, but I work all over London and sometimes further afield. I am the original cliché, I wanted to be a barrister since I was nine years old, I have always had a burning desire to speak up for those that cannot speak for themselves.  I truly believe that no matter what the offence, the accused has the right to a defence properly presented by able counsel. I read Law LLB at Sussex University and then secured a job in the chambers I work for now.

Students wanting to get a job in the law profession will require an excellent degree and A-level results. Obtain as much useful experience possible, such as mini pupilages and marshalling. Do not underestimate the power of being able to deal with people from all walks of life.  One moment you will be addressing a Law Lord in the High Court the next, a 16-year-old drug addict in a cell.
A day that really sticks in my mind is the first time I had to get on my feet before a judge. I was representing a defendant charged with shoplifting; it felt like I was representing a Great Train Robber, as I was finally doing what I had dreamt about and worked so hard for. My first appearance at the Bailey was also extremely exciting; I was representing a young boy accused of murdering a homeless person in his sleep. My ideals have remained the same, I still believe passionately that the individual should have the right to a fair trial and to have that trial conducted by a barrister.

My working days are completely varied. For example, one day I was representing a man accused of money laundering (he purchased a jet worth $20 million). The next day, I was representing a man accused of stabbing his ex-girlfriend six times. You need a thick skin in this profession; praise is seldom given and you are expected to give 100% at all times. It can be stressful and there’s a constant worry that everything I do must be perfect – if I make a mistake it could mean that an innocent person goes to prison for a very long time.

My advice to others would be to work hard, gain relevant work experience and don’t forget to keep yourself well rounded.”