InBrief

The Data Cohort Project

The Bar Association is keen to assist members overcome challenges and barriers to practice through the strategic use of technology, to better understand the changing demand for legal services in the emerging technological landscape, and to improve the competitiveness and long-term viability of the Bar.

The Association recognises that the needs of its members differ. Approved by the Bar Council, this pilot project – called the Data Cohort Project – is intended to assist the Association to gain a better understanding of members across their entire career.

Central to the pilot project is obtaining a census of persons who commenced at the Bar between 1997 and 2017, at five-year intervals, being those cohorts commencing in 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017, and whether or not still at the Bar.

In addition to the census, the qualitative component comprises one-on-one interviews from these cohorts (selected at random). Confidential interviews will be conducted by two members of the Committee, Ms Fishburn and Ms Beechey. Information from these qualitative interviews will only be made available in summary format and anonymised.

A report will be produced by the Committee and submitted to Bar Council. Analysis from the Project will also form the basis of a detailed article in Bar News.

Interviews start in November/December. If you are within one of the intake years (1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017) and you are selected for an interview, we would be very grateful if you are able to find the time to participate.

The project to be conducted by the Innovation and Technology Committee. If you have any questions about this project please contact the Chair of the Innovation & Technology Committee, Michael Green SC, Talitha Fishburn, or Emma Beechey.