The following information is an extract from Bench Table Order APPENDIX 5 - Criteria for the Election of Benchers. The Bench Table Orders (BTOs), which define the election processes and criteria, are available here.
The primary function of the Inn is the provision of first-class education and training in advocacy and other professional skills for its students and new practitioners and of high quality continuing professional development for its more experienced barrister members. The Inn needs a sizeable pool of Benchers who possess the appropriate skills and commitment to assist in planning, devising and delivering training and continuing education both in London and on the Circuits.
The Inn also undertakes a full programme of work designed to encourage and facilitate entry to the Bar by persons from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. This work includes the implementation of a Schools Project, the organisation of events such as debating workshops, open days, dinners for university students and schemes such as the Mentoring Scheme for students and the forging of links with schools, colleges, university academics and Bar Course providers. In addition, the Inn provides scholarships and other awards of varying value to students who would not otherwise have the means to enter the profession. Benchers play a large part in the planning and delivery of these activities.
Benchers with appropriate skills and interests are also required to direct and/or support the Inn’s full-time staff in a range of tasks, including:
- The provision and allocation of scholarships and other funding to assist students wishing to go to the Bar;
- The management of the Inn’s assets, including its finances and investments;
- The operation of the Inn’s Library and Archives;
- The commercial use of the Inn’s facilities for private, corporate and other events and for other purposes such as filming;
- The maintenance, upkeep and improvement of the Inn’s historic buildings and gardens;
- The discharge of the Inn’s responsibilities as a commercial and residential landlord and as an employer;
- The planning and organisation of the day-to-day activities of the Inn and of its musical and ecclesiastical life.
An outline of the role and duties of Governing Benchers is available here. Academic, Overseas and Honorary Benchers are expected to make an equally positive contribution to the affairs and the ethos of the Inn.