In the latest episode of the Activist Lawyer podcast, host Sarah Henry had the pleasure of speaking with award-winning barrister Oscar Davies.
‘Talking with Oscar was truly enjoyable,’ Sarah said. ‘We explored the challenges faced by non-binary and trans individuals, as well as the legal gaps in protections. Oscar generously shared insights from their upcoming book, which aims to deepen the understanding of genders beyond the binary. During our conversation, Oscar also highlighted the importance of language—not just in a legal context as a barrister, but also in how our word choices can negatively impact others.’
As with many of our guests, we asked Oscar to share some advice for listeners considering a career as at the Bar.
1. Be yourself.
Oscar’s starting point is to be yourself, emphasising the importance of authenticity. ‘I know it's a well-trodden piece of advice,’ Oscar notes, going on to comment that a lot of their success came about because they realised there were no public, non-binary barristers, ‘I put myself out there. You have to be your authentic self, whatever that means to you.’
2. Support your community.
‘A lot of the interesting work I do is because I support LGBTQ+ groups and provide free advice a lot of the time.’ Oscar encourages listeners to identify groups that may need assistance, noting that “everyone needs lawyers!” Even as a law student, you can make a difference.
3. Focus on your applications!
When preparing applications, Oscar advises ensuring you meet all the minimum requirements at least. ‘In barrister terms, that means a good degree, some pro-bono work and some mini-pupillages by the time you apply.’ Experience of ‘mooting’ is crucial, and students should seek scholarships or prize-winning opportunities. ‘That sounds like a lot, but for the Bar, that is the bare minimum to be properly considered as a candidate because the level is so high and there are so few places.’
Having taken on various roles, including waitering and singing, to fund their journey to the Bar, Oscar managed to balance studying with internships, work, and mini-pupillages. ‘It is a difficult world out there and I think props to anyone coming into the law because it's not easy, but at the same time it is a fulfilling job.’
Listeners will find out more about Oscar’s fascinating work at Garden Court Chambers and their upcoming book by downloading the latest episode here.
NOTES
Oscar is recognised as the first publicly acknowledged non-binary barrister in the UK and has been a trailblazer in representing trans and non-binary clients across various civil and public law sectors. Oscar’s work as a barrister is a gateway to their activism in trans issues and climate related strategic litigation.
Their impressive accolades include winning 'LGBTQ+: Champion of the Year’ at the Legal 500 ESG Awards 2024 and being nominated for 'DE&I: Rising Star of the Year' at the same awards. Oscar was also nominated as one of the ‘Top 10 Outstanding Contributions to LGBT+ Life’ by the British LGBT Awards 2022 and was a finalist in this year’s Advocate's awards category Young Pro Bono Barrister of the Year'.
Oscar is ranked as a Tier 1 ‘Rising Star’ in the Legal 500 and was recently featured by Evening Standard Magazine as one of the Unsung Heroes of the LGBTQ+ community.
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