Media Release – Strike off application by Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner

The proceedings have been issued pursuant to section 23(1)(b) of the Legal Profession Uniform Law.

Nicola Gobbo became a barrister in 1998 and ceased to practice as a barrister on 30 June 2009.

Wendy Harris QC, President of the Victorian Bar, said, “While a barrister, Nicola Gobbo committed fundamental breaches of the ethical obligations of confidence she owed to clients. Nicola Gobbo's behaviour was egregious and the Victorian Bar continues to be appalled about the revelation of her conduct.

“The Bar Council’s priority is to reassure members of the public that they can and should have confidence in the Victorian Bar and its members. 

“We take every opportunity to reinforce that:

• Victoria’s barristers are bound by a strict code of ethics under which their paramount obligations are to their clients and the administration of justice
• all members of the Victorian Bar are required to display the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity at all times, and
• members of the Victorian Bar will continue to be held these standards.

We will not comment further while the matter is before the Court.