//Welcome to BACFI

BACFI represents the interests of employed barristers providing legal services in a commercial environment and also "non-practising" barristers. Members also include self-employed barristers, students, overseas lawyers working in the UK and retired barristers.

BACFI was founded in 1965 and since then has helped to enhance the status of employed barristers within the profession.  In 2000 employed barristers were granted equal practising rights. The Association is independent of the Bar Standards Board and the Bar Council, although it works closely with both organisations on matters affecting members.

In addition to professional issues which comprise one of the its main strands of work, BACFI also focuses on professional development and career opportunities for members.  To support these objectives, BACFI hosts a programme of seminars and other events throughout the year.  Each provides an excellent opportunity for networking.

Membership is open to all barristers and student members of the Inns of Court.

Next Event

Supper Party with Anglo-French Lawyers Association and British German Jurists Association -- Speaker:  Sylvie Petit-Leclair, Liaison Judge, French Embassy
Location:  Parliament Chamber, Middle Temple  -- Monday, 8th March 2010 -- REGISTER NOW

Latest News

In memoriam -- James Keir QC
We are sorry to report the death in October 2009 of James Keir QC, one of our most distinguished Honorary members. James was one of the first committee members following the formation of BACFI and remained on the committee as an officer for several years. He did a great deal to develop the profile of BACFI in representing the employed bar which was  recognised with his appointment as a QC. He was for many years Legal Director of Unilever following a similar role at the United Africa Company.

Please see latest from BSB. We feel rather pleased that the BSB has decided to put its regulatory toe into the shark infested waters of ABS and LDPs. Thanks to those on the PISC sub committee who contributed to the BACFI response to the consultation last year. BACFI is also contributing to the CPD review, as we know you all feel strongly that CPD as presently administered is not necessarily fit for EB purposes. Sue Edwards is on the working group and Tricia Howse is now on the BSB CPD sub committee. Any members with ideas/complaints about CPD criteria and courses please email them to Tricia on Tricia.Howse@hotmail.co.uk.

The Inner Temple Lecture Series:  Professionalism -- For more information, visit Diary of Events.

The 2009 Denning Lecture delivered by Lord Neuberger of Abbotsbury, MR on 23rd November 2009 at Inner Temple, London is now available. 

Barristers needed for the ‘Speak up for others – a career as a barrister’ scheme (outside London). Could you give up a few hours to speak at a school about a career as a barrister? If so, and you are outside London, please volunteer. This scheme aims to enhance awareness of the role and training path of barristers, particularly within schools currently without access to this information. The Bar Council will match you with a school in your chosen area (where you live or work) and provide materials for the talk. Further details are available here.

The Professional Issues committee is currently engaged in many important professional activities and welcomes input from members.  Further details can be found on the Professional Issues page.

New Situations & Vacancies