Best Looking Barristers

Members of the public often mistakenly think that being a barrister is a bit like being an actor. Having seen too many TV crime dramas, they think that law must be all about giving a dramatic performance. (Some law students think this too - they tend to drop out fast).

So do good lawyers have to give a performance in court? Well, yes, and no. Mostly, being a good courtroom advocate is about hard work, preparation, knowing your case inside out, and having the ability to stand on your feet and cross-examine a witness while simultaneously keeping an eye on the judge, your client, and the other side, taking a full note of proceedings, and always being two questions ahead of everyone else. Not an easy task.

And, unlike actors, barristers are not usually selected for their good looks. Pop into most barristers' chambers and you will find pudgy out-of-shape middle-aged men (and women) who work too hard and excerise too little. Not much there to set the blood racing.

So props to the American journalist who compiled a list of hotties at the Bar. They clearly did their homework, though I for one would like to know if they got any dates as a result.

---Alex