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 employ clerks to organise their bookings and provide messaging, telephone and accounting services. 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:
# Licensed Clerks have agreements with the Bar, which include provisions such as the commitment by the clerk to comply with the terms of all rules, rulings, directions and regulations applicable to it and in force from time to time made by the Bar Council. The Clerking Regulations and Clerks (Audit & Trust Money) Practice Rules (see below) apply to clerks licensed by the Victorian Bar. These clerks have also been approved by the Bar 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.
ยค Approved Clerks have been approved by Bar pursuant to section 88 of the Legal Profession Uniform Law Application Act 2014 (Vic) to receive trust money.