Bankruptcy and studying to become barrister

[tjt0123]

Long story short I'm applying to do a GDL postgraduate this year and then continuing on to do the bar tests to become barrister.

Earlier this year I come out of a long term relationship and have a baby and was left with a huge amount of debt that although accrued by my ex partner was in my name (absolutely stupid of me I know especially being unmarried) and he is now uninterested in paying anything meaning it's looking increasingly likely I would have to consider bankruptcy.

How will a bankruptcy effect my ability to study law and have a career? I really don't know what to do. I have family who could potentially help debt wise but I would only consider asking them as a completely last resort.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

It won't affect your ability to study law.

However lawyers are asked whether they have ever been bankrupt so yes you would have to declare it (and yes they will check). As far as I know it's not an automatic ban but you would have show that a certain period of time has elapsed since the bankruptcy was discharged, that you've paid off all the debt and "mended your ways".

If you've not started bankruptcy yet, and are looking at a 1 year (?) postgrad, then you won't be discharged- which is at least 12 months from the date of the bankruptcy.

I'd say that it's not a case of ruling it out forever, but if you go bankrupt it's going to be at least 3 -5 years before you will be admitted, in my opinion.

Speak to the Law Society about it.