Park Square Barristers Ltd.

Crime,

Crime

Prior to beginning her pupillage Maleka worked as a Court Clerk at Leeds Crown Court. This role provided her with a sound understanding of the different processes involved in the various hearings in the Crown Court. Maleka experienced the range of special measures regularly used in the Crown Court and obtained invaluable experience when dealing with vulnerable witnesses. She worked closely with the judiciary which helped her understand what factors are most persuasive in bail and sentencing decisions. Maleka witnessed a range of advocacy styles having sat in on multiple Crown Court trials concerning various offences which assisted in developing her own advocacy style.

Maleka undertook several mini-pupillages, through which she gained valuable experience, including attending trials in the Magistrates’ Court. She observed counsel presenting submissions of no case to answer and witnessed the Magistrates deliver their judgment. These experiences allowed her to grasp the differences in pace and procedure between the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court. The insights gained from both courts proved instrumental in her successful completion of the Barrister Training Course, where she achieved a High Distinction, with particular excellence in Criminal Litigation and Advocacy.

Maleka appreciates the importance of mentorship. She mentors aspiring advocates throughout scholarship and pupillage cycles as well as providing general advice on developing experience of the profession. Both applicants she assisted during the last pupillage cycle were offered pupillage. Maleka has also volunteered as a mentor for the Young Citizens Bar Mock Trial competition which involves coaching high school students aged fourteen and fifteen through the process of a Crown Court trial and providing tips for effective advocacy.

2022 - Court Clerk at HMCTS

2024 - Pupil at Park Square Barristers

The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple (2023)

2022 - Newcastle University LLB (Hons)

2024 - The University of Law (Leeds) Bar Practice Course High Distinction