A barristers' clerk acts like an agent for barristers. They are familiar with skills, expertise, experience and availability of the barristers on their list and can liaise with solicitors and clients to match you with the best representation for each matter.
Barristers engage a Barristers’ Clerk who is able to advise solicitors as to suitability, availability and fee levels. The Barristers’ Clerk staff also provide admin services to barristers they act for. The clerks have detailed knowledge about the barristers on their list and can provide lawyers and others with information about the availability of barristers as well as advising on the choice of barrister. They also take care of the administrative aspects of engaging counsel.
Other services they provide include:
The Clerking Regulations 2020 commenced on 1 July 2020 and apply to all clerks licensed by the Victorian Bar. All barristers' clerks listed below are licensed clerks and are required to comply with the Clerking Regulations 2020.
These clerks are also approved pursuant to section 88 of the Legal Profession Uniform Law Application Act 2014 (Vic) to receive trust money. For information on when approved clerks can hold trust money see the Legal Services Board website.