Selection process
We conduct a competitive selection process for junior counsel to join the program.
Expressions of interest for the 2026 intake of junior counsel are now closed.
How are lead counsel and junior counsel partnered?
Once a trial is accepted on the program, the instructing solicitor will select lead counsel from a list of available program lead counsel. VLA Chambers advocates clerks will then ascertain the availability of junior counsel on the program and will provide a list to the instructor, with a recommendation for junior counsel who have not yet completed up to three trials.
Consultation with solicitors on their preferences for counsel is an important part of the partnering process. We want to ensure that the best combination of advocates is available for clients.
Do junior counsel work with one or several lead counsel?
Junior counsel will ideally work with different lead counsel over the program, so they have the opportunity to learn from different mentors. To promote and encourage joint preparation and opportunities for feedback, lead and junior counsel receive an additional three hours of funded conference time per trial.
Fees
All junior counsel receive brief fees consistent with Table M in the VLA Handbook for lawyers. Junior counsel are also entitled to a three-hour conferencing fee to account for time spent in conference with lead counsel throughout the trial.
Formal training
Junior counsel may be invited to participate in training opportunities and professional legal education throughout the year.
Duration
The program runs over a period of approximately 12–18 months for each cohort of junior counsel. If junior counsel have not had the opportunity to run an appropriate number of trials, they may be invited to remain in the program until they have done so.
Junior counsel for 2026
- Chris Brydon
- Josh Cunningham
- Natasha Freijah
- Olivia Go
- Courtney Hart
- Candice Jackson
- Tamsin Khor
- Nicole Menegas
- Ashlea Patterson
- Briana Proud
- Toni Stokes
- Vincent Vuu
- Jessy Xie
- Ran Zaydan
Due to delays and resolutions of trials, a number of the 2024–25 program participants have been invited to remain on the program and can be briefed in suitable trials:
Updated