About the reading programme
A lawyer must complete the Bar exams before taking out a (reader's) practising certificate.
On taking out a practising certificate with conditions, the legal practitioner is termed a 'reader'. Learn more >>
Guidelines to tutors and readers
These guidelines are intended to assist tutors and readers to obtain the maximum benefit from the reading period. Learn More >>
Conditions attached the readers’ certificates
On 15 June 2006 Bar Council resolved that the following conditions be attached to the practising certificate of readers under the Legal Profession Act 2004. Learn More >>
Criminal reading
Reader must complete 10 days of criminal reading within the first six months of their reading programme. Learn More >>
Civil reading
readers must complete ten days of civil reading within the first six months of their reading programme.Learn More >>
Bar Association Tutor Policy
[Bar Council resolution 20 September 2012]
Learn More >>
During the Reading Programme readers are also required to complete two advocacy workshops and a series of extension sessions. 
For information about recognition of qualifications, admission to the Supreme Court of New South Wales, and obtaining a practising certificate, visit 'Practising as a barrister in NSW'