 In July 1847 Darley commenced studying at Trinity College, Dublin, and he graduated in July 1851 with a Bachelor of Arts (BA).He was called to the English bar at the King's Inn in January 1853 but returned to Ireland and practised there for about nine years on the Munster circuit.He met Sir Alfred Stephen when Stephen was on a visit to Europe, and was told that there were good prospects for him in Australia.