barrister - a British or Canadian lawyer who speaks in the higher courts of law on behalf of either the defense or prosecution. law, jurisprudence - the collection of rules imposed by authority; civilization presupposes respect for the law; the great problem for jurisprudence to allow freedom while enforcing order. Counsel to the Crown - a barrister selected to serve as counsel to the British ruler. attorney, lawyer - a professional person authorized to practice law; conducts lawsuits or gives legal advice. sergeant-at-law, serjeant, serjeant-at-law, sergeant - an English barrister of the highest rank.