ARTICLED CLERK Meaning and
Definition
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An articled clerk, also commonly known as a trainee solicitor or apprentice lawyer, is an individual who is pursuing a career in the legal profession and undergoing practical training in a law firm or solicitor's office. The term "articled" stems from the traditional agreement called an "articles of clerkship" that is made between the clerk and the supervising solicitor.
During the articled clerkship, which typically lasts for a predetermined period, usually around two years, the clerk gains practical experience and exposure to the various aspects of legal practice. This comprehensive training program combines on-the-job learning with academic study, enabling the clerk to develop critical legal skills and knowledge under the supervision of qualified solicitors.
The articled clerk's responsibilities often encompass conducting legal research, assisting with case preparation and documentation, attending court hearings and meetings, along with gaining insights into the ethical and professional obligations of a solicitor. Through this hands-on exposure, the articled clerk is exposed to a variety of legal matters, facilitating a deeper understanding of their chosen legal specialty.
Upon successful completion of the articled clerkship, the individual is typically eligible to be admitted as a solicitor, enabling them to practice law independently or with a law firm. The successful completion of the clerkship is often a significant milestone in a legal career, marking the transition from being a trainee solicitor to a qualified legal professional.
Common Misspellings for ARTICLED CLERK
- zrticled clerk
- srticled clerk
- wrticled clerk
- qrticled clerk
- aeticled clerk
- adticled clerk
- afticled clerk
- atticled clerk
- a5ticled clerk
- a4ticled clerk
- arricled clerk
- arficled clerk
- argicled clerk
- aryicled clerk
- ar6icled clerk
- ar5icled clerk
- artucled clerk
- artjcled clerk
- artkcled clerk
- artocled clerk
Etymology of ARTICLED CLERK
The word "articled clerk" traces its origins back to 19th century England. In this context, an "article" refers to a legal contract, commonly known as an "indenture", which binds an individual to work for a specific period as an apprentice or trainee under a master or employer. The term "clerk" refers to someone who performs administrative or office duties.
During this time, individuals seeking to become solicitors in England and Wales were required to complete a period of training, known as articles of clerkship. These articles, or contracts, outlined the terms of the training, which typically lasted for five to seven years. The trainee, known as an "articled clerk", would work under the guidance and supervision of an experienced solicitor, gaining practical legal experience while studying law.
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