Recruitment Policy

The Recruitment Committee comprises:

1. Billal Malik
2. Zubair Mughal

Chambers is committed to:

  • Equality of opportunity
  • Fair and open competition
  • Selection based solely on merit and ability
  • Promoting diversity and inclusion within the Bar

No applicant will be treated less favourably on the grounds of race, sex, gender reassignment, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity.

Objective of recruitment and this policy:

a. Promote sustained growth of chambers in its existing and growing practice areas;
b. Recruit applicants of high calibre;
c. Meet the long-term development needs of Chambers;
d. Promote equal opportunities; and
e. Respect and maintain the confidentiality of applications.

Recruitment Process

  • Vacancies will be advertised in an open and accessible manner, save for instances where a prospective applicant is invited to apply for tenancy to Chambers
  • Clear selection criteria will be published in advance
  • Applications will be assessed against objective criteria
  • Shortlisting and interviews will be conducted by at least two members of Chambers where possible
  • Notes will be kept to ensure transparency and consistency

Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on factors such as:

  • Legal knowledge and analytical ability
  • Advocacy and communication skills – Chambers may request a redacted sample of written work
  • Integrity and professionalism
  • Commitment to practice areas of Chambers

Confidentiality

All applications and recruitment discussions will be treated confidentially and handled in accordance with data protection obligations.

A flexible approach to recruitment may be taken in the case of established/experienced or exceptional candidates.

Factors which determine whether a prospective applicant is established/experienced or exceptional:

a. Demonstrated higher court experience relative to their year of call or level of practice;
b. Undertaken work of greater complexity compared to peers of a similar year of call or experience;
c. Appeared in reported cases to an extent exceeding what would typically be expected at their level;
d. Published or authored legal articles evidencing a strong commitment to their practice area;
e. Engaged in extracurricular activities (e.g. campaigning, blogging) that enhance Chambers’ profile;
f. Generated earnings exceeding those typically expected of practitioners at a comparable level, having regard to current members;
g. Established professional connections likely to generate significant work for themselves and/or other members of Chambers; and/or
h. Possess relevant experience, including life or prior professional experience outside the Bar, which adds value to their practice area.

This policy will be reviewed and updated (if necessary) from time to time.

Should you have any questions or complaints about this Policy, please contact Zubair Mughal via email: zubairmughal@demstonechambers.co.uk.

15 May 2026