New research by the Bar Council highlights significant income and career progression gaps between barristers of different ethnicities, with White barristers earning substantially more than their Black and Asian colleagues.
The study reveals that the median earnings for White barristers are 54% higher than those for Black barristers and 32% higher than for Asian barristers. This stark income disparity underscores the ongoing challenges faced by ethnic minority barristers in the profession.
The research also examined conversion rates from pupillage to tenancy, revealing that only 67% of Black pupils secured tenancy directly from pupillage compared to 82% of White pupils. While this gap has narrowed since earlier studies, it remains a concern for diversity and inclusivity within the legal field.
The 2021 Race at the Bar report identified systemic barriers for ethnic minority and female barristers, noting that they face a more challenging work environment than their White counterparts. Despite some improvements, there remains a consistent under-representation of Black barristers, with significant disparities in access, earnings, and career progression.
More ethnic minority individuals are entering the profession, with those from Black and Asian backgrounds still earning less than their White colleagues at all career stages. The median income for self-employed barristers is significantly higher for White barristers at £155,666, compared to £112,866 for Asian barristers and £90,000 for Black barristers.
Employed barristers exhibit a smaller income gap, averaging £75,000 for White barristers in contrast to £70,000 for Black barristers and £68,000 for Asian barristers. The data indicates a possible reduction in income disparities since 2020, potentially influenced by the pandemic’s impact on earnings.
The proportion of ethnic minority pupils has stabilised at over 22%, similar to figures from 2020. Despite positive tenancy outcomes for all ethnic minority students, Black pupils are least likely to obtain immediate tenancy and are more likely to have probationary tenancies or become squatters.
From 2015/16 to 2019/20, only 52% of Black pupils secured tenancy from pupillage, compared to 76% of White pupils. Between 2020/21 and 2023/24, figures improved to 67% for Black pupils and 82% for White pupils, yet the gap persists.
The number of ethnic minority silks has risen, notably among Asian and mixed ethnicities, but the number of Black KCs remains low at 25, with just eight Black women silks. Recommendations from researchers include mandatory training on equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as work distribution and income monitoring by ethnicity.
Two-thirds of White barristers believe work is fairly distributed, compared to only 43% of ethnic minority barristers, indicating ongoing challenges in achieving workplace equality. “While data shows some progress, the Bar has not transformed wholly in recent years,” the report concludes, acknowledging progress yet emphasising the need for continued efforts against racism.
The disparities highlighted in the report prompt a call for continued efforts to address inequality within the Bar. Sam Townend, chair of the Bar Council, emphasises the need for meaningful action to ensure a supportive environment for all barristers regardless of ethnicity.
