Ibrahim - Delivering Justice
Ibrahim Ilyas
Pupil Barrister, Crown Prosecution Service
LLB (Hons) Law
Despite being told at school that he wasn’t academic enough to pursue a career as a Barrister, Ibrahim pushed himself and through hard work and dedication, he graduated from BCU with a Law degree before he completed training to secure a pupillage. He is now a Pupil Barrister for the Crown Prosecution Service.
“I always wanted to go to university and pursue a career in Law. I was not the most academically bright child in primary school, and I don't think anyone, including me, would have believed then that I could achieve what I have. In fact, in secondary school, I was told by a teacher that I should not pursue a career at the Bar, but I did not allow that to stop me. I persisted and worked hard to be where I am now.
I was given a place on BCU's Law course through Clearing, and once I started, I threw myself into everything that BCU had to offer, becoming a course representative, Vice-President of the Public Speaking Society, and President of BCU's Law Society. I loved the fact that the university is in the city centre, and it has excellent transport links.
Whilst studying, I was offered a range of extra-curricular activities such as debating and mooting whilst also having the opportunity to apply for experiences such as court shadowing and mini-pupillages. My favourite part about studying at BCU was the amazing staff, they were so supportive and had a real dedication to my success. I will not forget their guidance and continued support.
During my studies, I even secured a role as a Magistrate, which made me one of the youngest in Great Britain at just 19 years old.
After completing my LLB at BCU, I studied the Bar Professional Training course with an LLM at The University of Law. I was successful in obtaining pupillage with the Crown Prosecution Service, which I started in September 2023.
I've always underestimated my abilities, especially when preparing for and completing exams. But with preparation, I was able to achieve good grades, and this reassured me of my capability. It's natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the future, but I've learnt that being resilient and hard-working can only ensure positive results.
My current role involves preparing for and conducting advocacy in both Magistrates' and Crown Courts. I share lists with colleagues in the Magistrates' Court and prosecute committal for sentence hearings in the Crown Court.
I'm proud to call myself a member of the BCU alumni community; being a product of a fantastic Law School which prides itself on investing in its students, and the culture at BCU which is diverse and friendly.”
