what is a law clerks role in legal aid?

Answer 1

Actually, a LAW CLERK, is a person who has a law degree that assists a judge by providing legal reseach, reviewing motions, and drafting briefs and orders for the judge.

You must be confused with a LEGAL CLERK which is no more than a secretary.

Answer 2

This is from the UK point of view. As all criminal cases start at the Magistrates' Court, applications for legal aid are considered by a court clerk, acting on behalf of the Clerk to the Magistrates. There are standard criteria for the grant of legal aid, but there is scope for discretion and in exceptional circumstances a clerk of the court may grant legal aid in open court, subject to the submission of the relevant paper work by the person concerned. Formerly rules had to be followed for assessing the contribution of the person concerned to the cost of legal aid, but this contribution system in criminal matters was abolished in England and Wales in 2001, with Scotland following suit at a later stage.

Answer 3

Like everything else in law "it depends." A law clerk is a loose term that is applied to someone assisting a lawyer. Historically, it would refer to someone reading law in the lawyer's office and thus preparing for application to the bar. It is still used to refer to lawyers (usually recent graduates) who assist judges. A judicial clerkship is a highly sought after position. In the legal aid context, it probably refers to anyone who is assisting a lawyer. Other terms include secretary, paralegal and legal assistant. Since only a licensed lawyer can represent a client, the law clerk's role is limited to assisting the lawyer as he or she deems appropriate.

Answer 4

To assist the main fee earners doing anything they ask to be done on a case.

Answer 5

to snigger and lick ***.