The QC calls for reform to pupillage training
Sam Karim QC is a barrister at Kings Chambers. After being called to the Bar in 2002, Sam took Silk this year, becoming one of the youngest QC’s on the Northern Circuit and in Chambers. He is a specialist practitioner in domestic and international public law, domestic and international arbitration, and court of protection.
What was your route into the profession?
It was rather orthodox: I completed an undergraduate degree in laws, then went on to complete my Bar Course and finally a masters in laws. I secured pupillage shortly before commencing my masters.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Applying for silk! I was appointed QC in February this year (my 15th year of practice). It was an incredible and surreal experience to be recognised for my work at such an early point in my career. Despite the challenging process, it is most certainly a career highlight.
Others would regard my biggest career challenges as being part of the successful regionalisation of the Administrative Court and the books I have authored, edited and contributed to which include:
- Judicial Review: Law & Practice which I co-authored with the late Mrs Justice Patterson
- Bullen & Leake & Jacob's Precedents of Pleadings
- A human rights perspective on reducing restrictive practices in intellectual disability and autism
- Public Law Online an online legal knowledge service which is updated regularly
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
There are two. First, Lord Justice Ryder whom I first met in pupillage whilst he was leading a junior in my previous Chambers (now His Honour Judge Jonathan Butler). I attended a case conference the night before a hearing in the then House of Lords. I vividly remember him using a flow chart to distill complex legal principles and develop arguments. I was left completely inspired. Second, the late Mrs Justice Frances Patterson. She was the founder of the public law team at Kings Chambers that I now lead. She was instrumental in developing administrative law in the regions. A remarkable lawyer, leader and friend.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I would probably be a corporate problem solver. Applying knowledge and experience to tackling complex issues on a diverse range of matters, approaching a problem logically, communicating effectively, having the ability to negotiate, providing advice and finding solutions are all skills that I possess and apply to my current work in the legal sector. Of course, these are all applicable to such a problem-solving role so, in short, it would be a sensible alternate career path for me!
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
I really do not have one, but I will say that I find it remarkable that in US legal dramas (not naming any names), attorney’s undertake complex cross examination without any notes… If only it was that easy!
What change would you make to the profession?
I would reform training. I say this having been part of pupillage recruitment for nearly a decade and now as director of pupillage training. It is remarkable that so many candidates are permitted to undertake a course at such cost with ever-reducing pupillage numbers. Despite what is said, the transferrable skills are limited. I would ensure that pupillage was extended to two years which would incorporate both the academic and vocational training aspects.
How do you relax?
Swimming and meditation help to relax my mind, so I try to do these activities whenever I have some free time. However, most importantly, I enjoy spending time with my adorable wife.
