Recent years saw debate over whether the title should be retained, and it was suggested that the rank might be abolished. These days appointments are made once a year by a nine-member panel, chaired by a lay person, which includes two barristers, two solicitors, a retired judge, and three non-lawyers.
In formal terms the appointment is a royal one, but in name only. So what about silk, and why do we refer to QCs as having taken silk, or just as silks? Well, it is all to do with court dress which is not always worn — just to confuse matters. When in court dress, a junior barrister wears an open sleeved black gown over a dark suit. A QC will wear a black court coat and waistcoat, or a long-sleeved waistcoat with no court coat, which is styled like 18th-century court dress.
Importantly, their gown should in theory be made of silk although some wear other materials these days and has a flap collar and long closed sleeves the arm opening is half-way up the sleeve. Becoming a QC.
Application process QCs are selected by an independent panel of senior lawyers, a retired judge and non-lawyers once a year in what is known as the competition.
We'll keep members updated on details of the competition. There will be further updates soon. Sign up. Have you found this page helpful? Popular in Advocacy. Careers Feature. Solicitor judges Feature. We will, of course, carefully navigate you through all of the available options and provide you with the necessary advice.
If your case is legally aided, then it is very unlikely that we can instruct a QC unless the case is one of particular gravity or the utmost complexity. Most people would assume, for example, that instructing a QC would be permitted in all murder cases. Surprisingly that is not the case. Many people ask whether they or someone on their behalf can pay privately for a QC while receiving legal aid funding for the other elements of the case.
If that is something that you wish to discuss, then please speak to us at the earliest opportunity. In conclusion, there are many cases where instructing a QC is desirable if it can be achieved. However, the vast majority of cases will nor merit a QC, and you can be assured that we will ensure that your representation will be designed to bring about the best possible outcome. This might be through a Solicitor Advocate employed by this firm or through the use of independent counsel.
As a firm, we are immensely proud of the strong working relationship that we have with all of the advocates we regularly instruct. It is probably this close relationship more than anything else which affects case outcomes, so even if you cannot secure a QC to represent you, you should not feel that you are not getting the very best service.
To discuss any aspect of a case before the Crown Court then please contact your nearest office. We will advise you about representation. This will include the pros and cons of proceeding privately. For example, there is likely to be a bar on claiming back the costs of your defence if you would have been entitled to legal aid but chose not to take advantage of the scheme.
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