A barristers' clerk is a manager and administrator in a set of barristers' chambers.[1] The term originated in England and is also used in some other common law jurisdictions, such as Australia. In Scotland, the equivalent role is advocate's clerk.
There are about 1,200 barristers' clerks in England and Wales. Around 350 are senior clerks. A group of 20 barristers normally employs one senior clerk and one or two junior clerks. More than half the clerks work in London, mainly in and around the four Inns of Court, with the remainder being in other large towns and cities. In the UK, the profession is regulated by the Institute of Barristers' Clerks.[2]
Traditionally referred to as "the Law's Middlemen", clerks possess a unique skill set and fulfill a role in which they are considered to be experts in their own right. Clerking is seen as a career in itself, rather than a stepping stone to becoming a barrister.[3]
Barristers employ clerks to organise their bookings, manage their practices, develop relationships with clients, negotiate fees, and assist with accounting services.[4]
Clerks have detailed knowledge about the barristers on their list. They provide solicitors and others with information about the availability of barristers and advise on the choice of barrister.[5][2]
In recent years and in line with modernisation of the barristers' profession, an increasing number of barristers no longer employ clerks but manage their fees and time themselves or use modern management structures.[2]