You're aiming for Silk - you don’t have to go it alone.
Applying for Silk demands clarity, stamina, and strategic rigor -
all while maintaining an active practice and meeting personal obligations. For women and ethnic minority barristers, the process can feel even more challenging given underrepresentation and added pressures.
About me
I’m Mena Ruparel, former member of the King’s Counsel Selection Panel (2021–2024). I qualified as a solicitor in 1998 and practised family law for 20 years. I was Chair of the Law Society’s family law committee and have written several family law books for the Law Society. I am passionate about legal education and was appointed Chief Assessor of the Law Society family law accreditations. I am proud to have been the Chief Examiner of the CILEX level 6 family law modules.
I taught ethics for the University of Law and taught CPD to the profession throughout my career. I also co-authored a book on ethics for solicitors and won the Law Society excellence award for promoting high ethical standards.
I am committed to diversity issues, being a founding member of an EDI committee for Resolution.
I volunteer for two local charities, one which provides local news for those with sight loss and the other provides food parcels for those fighting poverty.
I offer confidential, one-to-one coaching to help you present a compelling Silk application - aligned with your values, your life, and your ambition.
As a former panel member, I know what the Selection Panel requires: a demonstration of excellence across all four competencies, evidenced in cases of substance, complexity, difficulty, or sensitivity.
From mapping cases that highlight clear strengths in written and oral advocacy to demonstrating leadership, integrity, and diversity action - I can guide you through it all.
I can help you use the STAR methodology to help you prepare for your interview, rehearse a competency-based interview and give you structured feedback to help you shine at the interview.
Who I work with
I specialise in supporting driven female and ethnic minority barristers/solicitors preparing to apply for Silk. If you have been offered an interview for October 2025, I can help you prepare.
You:
Want to showcase your practice strategically and confidently.
Are ready to align your evidence with the Panel’s competency requirements.
Seek to balance high performance with authenticity.
Sessions are confidential, tailored to your timetable, and structured to maximise your readiness without compromising your ongoing practice or wellbeing.
