The Guernsey Bar Council, in partnership with Law Guernsey has announced the launch of its flagship Bursary Scheme, designed to support the next generation of Guernsey Advocates.
This initiative reflects the Bar’s strong commitment to promoting access to justice and represents a proactive step toward addressing resourcing gaps in areas of significant public need.
The scheme, which opens for applications for the 2025/2026 cycle from today, is designed to alleviate the financial challenges faced by those who have already qualified as a solicitor or barrister in a United Kingdom jurisdiction (typically England and Wales) and are now seeking to qualify as a Guernsey Advocate – specifically those intending to practise in criminal, family, and other areas of law which may be eligible for funding by the Guernsey Legal Aid Scheme. In doing so, the Bar aims to strengthen the sustainability and accessibility of legal services for the island community.
Marcus Leese (pictured), Bâtonnier commented: “Guernsey Advocates already make a huge contribution to the legal aid system through not only their time and expertise, but also the taxes they pay which help to fund the system. This bursary scheme is an additional step and a further practical expression of the longstanding commitment of the Bar Council and all Advocates to ensuring that everyone in Guernsey has access to justice. We recognise the mounting pressure on legal aid provision and are doing more than ever before to help address it.”

Under the scheme, selected candidates will receive a comprehensive financial support package, including:
- An annual cash bursary for two years;
- Full course fees and materials for the Guernsey Bar and Caen courses;
- Payment of Guernsey Bar exam fees.
Applicants must be supported by a firm and pupil supervisor committed to legally aided work. Successful recipients will be expected to practise predominantly in criminal and/or family law for at least two years post-qualification, and to participate in the Duty Advocate Scheme, contributing to legal representation at the Police Station and Magistrates’ Court.
Henry Simpson, Law Guernsey, added: “Qualifying as a Guernsey Advocate is both demanding and rewarding, but cost should not be a barrier. This scheme, developed in partnership with the Bar Council, provides meaningful financial support for those committed to public service through law. By enabling more advocates to practise in under-resourced yet vital areas, we help to strengthen the profession and promote access to justice.”