Unit Chambers: for the modern barrister
As the Diary Manager and Senior Client Care Advisor at Unit Chambers, I would like to share some insights about our unique approach to running a modern barristers chambers. We are actively seeking talented barristers to join our team as part of our commitment to becoming the fastest growing family law set in the North West. As a forward-thinking, dynamic team doing things a bit differently, I believe it’s time to clear the air and debunk some myths about how a modern chambers like ours is run and managed.
Busting The Myths: A modern chambers explained
There is often hesitation when considering a move to a modern chambers due to perceived changes in autonomy and decision-making. But let me assure you, at Unit, change is all about improving the way we work without compromising your autonomy or voice. We maintain a structure that respects and values the autonomy of each barrister while providing robust support to enhance your practice.
How We Work: A collaborative and democratic approach
At Unit, we pride ourselves on cultivating an environment where barristers have a significant say in their professional lives, balancing their autonomy as a self-employed individual with efficient business management:
No Buy-In Required: Unlike many traditional chambers, joining Unit Chambers does not require a significant financial investment. We are privately owned, which means that you can focus on your practice without financial barriers.
Professional Business Management: Business-related decisions are made by our team of experienced professionals, including consultants, marketing specialists, and business development experts. This structure ensures that our operations are managed efficiently, freeing you to concentrate on delivering an exceptional service to your clients.
Democratic Decision-Making: Issues concerning daily life in chambers, diary management, and barrister-specific matters are decided democratically. We have a dedicated, fortnightly remote ‘Tune In’ session, providing all members with a platform to voice any concerns freely and without judgment, ensuring that everyone's perspectives are heard and valued. All barristers who wish to participate in decision-making processes have a voice, making Unit Chambers a truly collaborative and supportive environment.
Equality for all members: At Unit Chambers, we take pride in treating all members equally, regardless of experience. Our belief is that every barrister should have an equal opportunity to contribute and succeed, adopting a supportive and non-hierarchical environment.
The advantages of our modern approach
Compared to traditional setups, our model offers several advantages:
- Tailored Practices: We tailor practices to fit the individual barrister. As one member recently shared, "When I joined Unit, my practice was vastly different. I've felt listened to in terms of career development, and I am satisfied with my current practice."
- Quick and Transparent Billing: Our efficient billing system allows you to monitor your billing progress in real time. This transparency is a significant improvement over other systems used in more traditional chambers.
- Affordable Fees: With a market-leading chambers fee and no buy-in, you keep more of what you earn. This model ensures financial flexibility and stability for our members.
- Supportive and Sociable Environment: We recognise that being a self-employed barrister can be lonely, but not at Unit Chambers. We offer a very sociable and supportive space with regular events, wellbeing initiatives and an open-plan office complemented by silent work pods and private conference rooms.
What our members say
Here are some words from our barristers about why they love being at Unit:
- Local Work: "The location of work is important to me. Being local to Merseyside and Cheshire allows me to maintain a balance in my professional and personal life."
- Career Development: "I've felt listened to in terms of career development. The flexibility and support at Unit Chambers is unmatched."
- Modern and Flexible: "I joined Unit because I believed it was a chambers more in touch with the modern world. It offers great flexibility and is a very approachable workplace."
- Refreshingly transparent attitude: "Having been in a traditional Chambers setting for over 20 years, Unit presented me with a unique opportunity to join a chambers with a refreshingly modern and transparent attitude. Unit Chambers delivers on all levels and is the complete package."
A new approach for the modern barrister
Unit Chambers respects the traditions of the Bar while pioneering a new approach that embraces technology, efficiency, and a supportive structure. Our goal is to provide barristers with the time, energy, and resources to focus on delivering unparalleled service to their clients. If you’re looking for a chambers where you can fulfill your potential, feel valued, and be part of a forward-thinking community, Unit Chambers is the place for you. We are actively looking to grow our team and would love to hear from talented family law practitioners interested in joining us. Reach out to me today on emmawall@unit.law and we can organise an informal, confidential chat at a time that suits you.
All the best, Emma Wall (Diary Manager and Senior Client Care Advisor, Unit Chambers)