Kildare student selected for The Bar of Ireland Internship Programme

A student from Kildare is among a group of aspiring legal professionals who have completed The Bar of Ireland's 2026 Barrister Internship Programme, following a unique behind-the-scenes insight into life at The Bar and Ireland's legal system.

Representing Kildare is Katie Lawrence from Leixlip, who is studying in Maynooth University.

The programme, now in its second year, doubled in size this year and welcomed eight interns from universities across Ireland for an intensive two-week placement focused on advocacy, legal research, professional development and court practice, which concluded on Thursday, July 2.

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Throughout the programme, participants shadow practising barristers, attend workshops on advocacy and legal research, visit the Four Courts and King's Inns, and take part in a Moot Court competition designed to provide hands-on experience of courtroom advocacy.

Established to improve access to the profession, the internship programme provides practical opportunities for students of all backgrounds to explore the barrister career path through direct exposure to court work and one-to-one engagement with practising barristers.

Commenting on the programme, Seán Guerin SC, Chair of the Council of The Bar of Ireland said: “The Barrister Internship Programme is about opening up the profession and giving talented students a meaningful opportunity to see first-hand what life at The Bar involves. We are delighted to welcome this year’s interns and to support them as they explore a possible future career in law.”