Circuits

England and Wales is divided into regions or "Circuits" for the purposes of the administration of justice. The Circuit system, which is overseen by the Lord Chancellors Department, has a long history. More information about this history is available from the links below. Click here to view the map.

The "Circuits" also form the basis for administration of the Bar in England and Wales. The Circuit Bars provide important sources of support, advice and representation for barristers practising in those areas. They provide a range of services to the members in their respective geographical areas, maintain lines of communication with all parts of the legal system, including the court administration, and are represented on the Bar Council through the Circuit Leaders. They liaise closely with the local court service, Crown Prosecution Service and other bodies as well as providing important training and social events for barristers.

The six Circuits in England and Wales are shown on the map below, with links to further information about each Circuit.

In addition the Bar of England and Wales has established the European Circuit of the Bar of England and Wales. The European Circuit aims to bring together barristers working in Europe, whether in chambers or employed by European institutions or companies, barristers of England and Wales whose practice includes work in European and international law, and members of other European bars who are practising in the UK under the provisions of the EU Establishment and Services Directorate.

Click on the following links below for further information about each Circuit:

History of the Circuits

European Circuits

Midland Circuits

Northern Circuits

North Eastern Circuit

South Eastern Circuit

Wales and Chester Circuit

Western Circuit