QC applications slump again in 2008

The QC appointments process for 2008 has got off to a rocky start after it was revealed this week that applications for the elite kitemark have fallen by more than a quarter from last year's figure.

A total of 247 applications have been received by the QC Appointments Panel this year after the deadlines for applications passed on 3 April. The figure represents a drop of around 26% from last year's total of 333 applications, which itself was down from 443 in the 2006 round.

The news leaves the system facing a major shortfall from the 500 applicants originally anticipated by the QC Appointments Panel, the body charged with overseeing the self-financing process.

The number of female applicants has dipped significantly, down to 29 from 51 last year and 68 in 2006. Applications by those from ethnic minority backgrounds also dropped, down to 15 from 20 last year and 22 the year before.

One Essex Court senior clerk Paul Shrubsall (pictured) commented: "I am not surprised at the drop in the number of those applying. It is a complex and expensive process, which takes a full week to fill in. That can be quite off-putting to those wishing to apply."

Applicants are expected to show competency in understanding and use of the law; oral and written advocacy; working with others; diversity; and integrity. Interviews are expected to take place in October or November, with successful candidates likely to be notified early next year.

Successful applicants will be expected to pay a £3,500 fee - £500 more than last year - on top of the initial application fee.

Almost 100 barristers gained QC status in the 2007 silk round, announced last January - 18 months after the previous batch of silks had been appointed.

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