IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF JUSTICE TO APPLICANTS FOR SENIOR COUNSEL IN 2025
Appointment as Senior Counsel of and for the State of Victoria is a significant step. It ordinarily involves a change in practice and type of work. Appointment brings expectations of leadership and involvement in more difficult or complex legal matters.
The application form for appointment to Senior Counsel has been settled in consultation with the Victorian Bar. If an applicant cannot complete all of the information required, having close regard to the criteria, serious consideration should be given to not proceeding. It may be an indication the individual does not have the necessary current experience, practice or reputation to warrant consideration for appointment.
Potential applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the advisory and counselling opportunities which will be provided by the Bar.
Each application will be carefully considered. Applicants should appreciate that before appointments are made I will be engaging in a wide consultation process that goes beyond the referees nominated by an applicant. Senior Counsel must be, and be seen by the judiciary and by their fellow practitioners to be, deserving of recognition. Consequently, the reputation of an applicant is very important.
Any enquiries concerning completion of the application form should be raised with the President of the Victorian Bar.
THE HON. RICHARD NIALL
Chief Justice
Supreme Court of Victoria