Briefs from the Commonwealth and its statutory authorities

17/04/2008

The Commonwealth Government and many of its statutory authorities (such as Comcare, the ACCC and ASIC) are regular litigants in courts and tribunals in New South Wales, especially the Federal Court and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Commonwealth controls the rates at which barristers are permitted to charge for their professional services when appearing for the Commonwealth or its statutory authorities (such as the ACCC and ASIC). These rates are, generally, significantly less than a barrister’s commercial rate.�

Members who wish to be briefed by AGS or other firms instructed by the Commonwealth should apply for a Government rate, since this will make it easier for AGS (and other firms instructed by the Commonwealth) to brief them.�

Please see attached Commonwealth Counsel Fee Application form.

**24 April 2008 **