A Criminal barrister and now a BPC senior lecturer at our Liverpool campus, Douglas Lloyd channels his courtroom experience into shaping the next generation of lawyers and contributing to the University’s growth.
Written by April Baniqued. Published 5 September 2025.
Talk us through your career journey and how you became part of The University of Law.
I was a barrister for many years but felt ready for a new challenge. I started teaching part-time and soon found I enjoyed it more than being in court. I was also about to start a family and felt that teaching offered a better work-life balance. When a full-time vacancy arose, I decided to take the plunge. I know friends at the Bar were surprised when I made the move but it’s one of the best decisions I ever made. I had an interesting practice, travelling to criminal courts everywhere, from the Isle of Wight to the Old Bailey. I also did a lot of professional disciplinary work in Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff but it’s much harder to do that with a young family. I still work hard. I’m at my desk most days by 7:30am and often the last to leave but I can now spend evenings and weekends with my young daughter, instead of worrying about trial preparation. The thrill of winning a trial has been replaced by the satisfaction I get from helping the next generation develop the skills they’ll need to be called to the Bar.
Who has influenced you in your journey?
The Bar is remarkable for the fact barristers volunteer so much time to help others learn the ropes. When I started, I didn’t know anyone in the legal profession but I was fortunate to have three excellent barristers as pupil supervisors - Tim Banks, Liam Walker KC and Anand Beharrylal KC. I also had lots of other barristers I could call with questions. As a pupil, His Honour Judge Christopher Grout, Michael Collis and Darryn Rollinson were all junior barristers with great patience whenever I needed advice.
What makes the University’s environment unique?
The University of Law is focused on active learning and developing practical skills. Our approach is based on small group tasks rather than just passively listening to lectures. Also, most of our lecturers are experienced practitioners. That practical experience enables us to give students an insight into law, beyond their textbooks, making our students well-prepared for their future careers.
What university achievements are you proud of?
I taught the very first BPC workshop in Liverpool and, alongside our great team, can be proud that we have grown Liverpool’s BPC into one of the best in the country. One of the ways we did this was through student recruitment trips to Malaysia. Being part of those trips is a standout memory for me. It was nice to meet potential students in Kuala Lumpur and follow their journey to being called to the Bar. I’m proud whenever I see former students succeed and to know I have played a small role in building the Liverpool Bar course.
Also, the Manchester and Liverpool campuses have a fantasy football league, which I’ve won three years’ running. I’ll take any excuse to mention that.
What can students look forward to when they walk into your classroom?
I enjoy meeting and getting to know my new students. Each new intake brings a fresh energy and each class has its own dynamic.
I always encourage students to be the best they can be. I ensure everyone is involved and actively engaged by asking a lot of questions. I like to get to know my students, not just their names but also their ambitions and personalities. I then try to use that knowledge to tailor my teaching. I think it’s important to be creative to keep things interesting. In the past, I’ve used a zombie apocalypse to explain Hobbes and used learning technology like Mentimeter. I also strive to develop a supportive atmosphere and build a sense of camaraderie among classmates.
All our lecturers have their own style. I can honestly say we have an excellent team of lecturers on the BPC.
What inspires you?
The BPC is one of the toughest courses in the country. It requires a wide range of knowledge and skills. Students juggle this alongside pupillage applications, work experience, networking events and advocacy competitions. As cheesy as it sounds, I’m inspired by the students who overcome these challenges and get called to the Bar. As a parent, I’m particularly inspired by students who raise young children whilst passing the course. The level of organisational skills, motivation and stamina required to do that is inspirational.
What advice would you like to give to students?
My advice to students is to be organised and be proactive. Whatever you’re studying, it’s always much easier if you take time at the start of the year to get organised. Also, like most things in life, the more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Get involved in extra-curricular activities, seek out work experience and engage as much as possible in your workshops.
Interested in studying at the University? Find out more about the BPC or the wide range of other courses we offer.
