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In numerous international jurisdictions, a fused profession works better than a divided one, as in the UK. There are many reasons for this, the main ones being that starting off at the bar is extremely difficult and brings a life of penury for upwards of 10 years - unless, of course you're from a rich family. (The examples of George Carman and Rumpole spring to mind.) The alternative in a fused jurisdiction is that almost everyone starts off their professional life as a solicitor. During that time, they develop a broad-brush expertise, gain exposure to advocacy (if they want to), learn all of the business aspects of running a practice and how to deal with clients. They also develop contacts with fellow solicitors - obviously the most important thing if you're a barrister. Then later, after around 5 - 10 years, a proportion, perhaps no more than 5%, decide to cross over to the bar. When they do, they don't starve. They have a ready-made marketing base of former colleagues who know them well and trust their professional abilities. The work comes in more frequently than starting off straight after qualifying. This learning experience also breaks down the superiority-kick of the bar, as most advocates having been former solicitors, can understand only too well what it's like to run a practice and manage clients. The sooner that a fused profession is introduced, the better - it will mean less expense for clients and an improved, more universal training (which will mean combining the SQE and Bar Course). For anyone who would want to remain as a solicitor, there would be nothing to prevent that. Equally, for anyone wanting to practice at the bar, the cross-over would be as easy as changing jobs - and when you get there, to have a client base in your specialist area.