JavaScript is required

Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

We help Victorians with their legal problems and represent those who need it most. Find legal answers, chat with us online, or call us. You can speak to us in English or ask for an interpreter. You can also find more legal information at www.legalaid.vic.gov.au

Our Morwell office is closed due to renovations. The office can be contacted on (03) 5126 6444.
Or search our online legal information.

Successful junior counsel participants announced for our 2026 Trial Counsel Development Program

Fifteen barristers have been selected following a highly competitive process for this year’s intake.

Published:
Friday 20 March 2026 at 11:17 am
'The standard of applications this year was outstanding, reflecting the exceptional talent within the junior Criminal Bar – we look forward to continuing to nurture junior barristers.

We are pleased to announce the junior barristers taking part in the 2026 Trial Counsel Development Program.

A joint initiative of the Victorian Bar and Victoria Legal Aid (VLA), the program aims to:

  • develop trial capability in a supportive environment and
  • ensure legally aided accused have access to experienced trial counsel.

The highly successful program has been run since 2011, developing a steady pool of quality trial advocates at the Junior Bar as well as opportunities for experienced lead counsel to mentor others.

Congratulations to this year’s intake:

Thank you to all candidates who applied. We encourage those who missed out to apply again next time.

‘The standard of applications this year was outstanding, reflecting the exceptional talent within the junior Criminal Bar,’ said VLA Chambers Chief Counsel Julia Munster.

‘We look forward to continuing to nurture junior barristers.

‘We are grateful to the experienced lead counsel at the Victorian Bar and in-house at VLA Chambers who provide on-the-job training and mentoring to junior counsel in a supportive environment.

‘This builds capacity and confidence and strengthens the pool of quality trial advocates available to legally aided clients.’

Want to be involved as lead counsel?

We continue to invite experienced trial advocates to join the program as mentors.

We welcome lead counsel with significant criminal trial experience, at least 10 years at the Bar and a commitment to mentoring and training others.

Contact tcdp@vla.vic.gov.au with your CV and interest in the role. Lead counsel who are already on the program do not need to express fresh interest.

More information

Read about how to identify a trial for the program

Learn about the Family Law Trial Counsel Development Program

NewsGeneral newsLawyers news

Updated

Back to top
Legal Help Chat