The degree of Barrister–at–Law is a professional course, aimed at enabling students to acquire the skills, knowledge and values required in order to be fit to practise as a barrister.
You are encouraged to read all details relating to the Entrance Examination before applying.
Advanced Diploma in Legislative Drafting: apply by 18 May!
The Advanced Diploma in Legislative Drafting commences on 25 May 2026.
This part-time evening programme is designed for those with legislative experience looking to deepen their expertise. You'll dive into both the theory and practice of legislative drafting, gaining invaluable insights along the way!
Accessible part–time courses in specialist areas of the law. Just right for developing the specialist knowledge that can take your career to the next level.
HOW TO APPLY
Given the high demand for the courses, we encourage you to apply as early as possible.
Applications are open for the Diploma in Legal Studies, starting this September
The Diploma in Legal Studies is a two–year law course leading to: a qualification in law; and being eligible to sit the Entrance Examination for the degree of Barrister–at–Law.
Students have the option of attending all lectures and tutorials online as well as in–person at King’s Inns.
Mindful that some Diploma students have been away from formal education for a long time or have no formal education whatsoever, we deliver a Study–Skills Course on five evenings during the two weeks before the Diploma starts.
We were happy to host a Graduate Member Talk on "Ethics and Support for the Employed Bar".
On 30 April 2026, King’s Inns welcomed members to an engaging Graduate Member Talk exploring the topic of “Ethics and Support for the Employed Bar in England and Wales.”
The event brought together members of the legal profession working in-house for an insightful discussion on the evolving role of the employed barrister, professional identity, ethical considerations, and the importance of support networks within the profession.
We were pleased to host a Pre-Dining Talk delivered by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration
On 28 April 2026, King’s Inns hosted a Pre-Dining Talk on opportunities in International Protection Law.
Dr Stjohn O’Connor of the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration spoke about the International Protection Bill 2026 and the establishment of TARA — the Tribunal for Asylum and Returns Appeals.
The Honourable Ms Justice Tara Burns delivered the welcome address.
Attendees also gained insight into emerging career opportunities in international protection law and the evolving landscape of asylum and migration appeals in Ireland.
Recent Pre-dining Talks followed by Honorary Benchings Nights
Last month, we were happy to host two Honorable Benching Nights, bringing together distinguished members of the legal community for insightful discussion and tradition.
At the first event, The Rt Hon Sir David Foxton PC, Lord Justice of Appeal, delivered a pre-dining talk titled “Lawyering in an Insurgency: Four Sketches"
At the second, The Right Honourable Sir Colin Birss, Chancellor of the High Court of England and Wales, shared insights from his role as lead judge for artificial intelligence.
Both evenings marked their Honorable Benching Nights and were followed by the long-standing tradition of dining.
The Hilary 2026 Barrister Student Career took place in February at King's Inns
The event brought students and barristers together to hear practitioners speak about their experiences and career paths — from practising in the courts to the expanding opportunities available to employed and in-house barristers across the public
Many thanks to Orla Kelleher, Richard Greene, Jane Linnane, Bláthín Peirce, Connor King, Ursula Quill, Rebecca T., Caroline Doyle, Daniel Keating, Alexander Langan Mac Donnell and Brian Mallon, pictured with the Registrar Marcella Higgins, for making the event enjoyable, informative, and engaging; and to the students for their enthusiastic participation and thoughtful exchanges.
Education
The 2026 McCarthy debate took place on 29th April at King's Inns
Four intrepid participants debated the motion: “This House believes that the problem with artificial intelligence is not its intelligence, but its self-confidence.”
This event is a comic debate held annually in memory of the late Mr Justice Niall McCarthy, Judge of the Supreme Court, and his wife Barbara.
Rory Mannion and Christina Mohan spoke in favour of the motion, with David Leahy and Conor McArdle speaking against the motion.
The winner, Conor McArdle, was chosen by the Benchers and received his prize from Niall McCarthy who, along with his wife Niamh, attended the debate on behalf of the McCarthy family.
