Two aspiring Guernsey Advocates are preparing to be formally called to the Bar after successfully completing their examinations.
Clare Carré and Simon Gittins (pictured), both of Number 10 Advocates, were the first recipients of a bursary scheme run by the Guernsey Bar Council and the Institute of Law Guernsey.
Both have successfully completed their bar examinations and are due to be formally called to the Guernsey Bar on 7 September 2026.
Following qualification, Clare and Simon will join the pool of advocates available to take on publicly funded legal aid cases at a time when demand for representation in family and criminal law continues to rise.
Simon said: “Access to justice belongs to everyone in Guernsey: it is the core principle that underpins the rule of law, ensuring that everyone can exercise and protect their fundamental rights and freedoms with the benefit of legal advice and representation.
“It is therefore wonderful to see the Guernsey Bar Council and the Institute of Law Guernsey investing in that principle through this scheme, enabling aspiring advocates to bring our previous experience to bear in helping others.”
Number 10 Advocates, as the supporting firm, has played a key role in enabling both candidates to progress through the qualification process.
Following the success of Clare and Simon, the bursary scheme is continuing for a second year and is now open for applications from lawyers seeking to qualify as Guernsey Advocates and intending to work in areas including criminal and family law.
Jon Barclay of the Institute of Law Guernsey said: “The route to qualification as a Guernsey Advocate is demanding, but financial pressure should not stand in the way of talented candidates who are committed to public service.
“The bursary scheme gives practical support to the next generation of Advocates and helps strengthen access to legal representation in areas where the need is greatest.”
Marcus Leese, Bâtonnier, said: “Guernsey Advocates already make a huge contribution to the existing Legal Aid system through not only their time and expertise, but also the taxes they pay which help fund the system.
“The bursary scheme is an additional step and a further practical expression of the longstanding commitment of the Bar Council, the Institute of Law Guernsey and all Advocates to ensuring that everyone in Guernsey has access to justice.
“We’re delighted by the initial success of the bursary scheme and look forward to supporting many more candidates in the future for the benefit of all in Guernsey.”
