Senior members of the legal profession and judiciary have come together to wrap their digital arms around new lawyers admitted to practice in this COVID-19 pandemic year.

The Law Institute of Victoria is holding a special admissions celebration on Friday 11 December 2020, organised by the Young Lawyers section.

More than 1800 lawyers will be admitted “on the papers” during 2020, with 1500 admitted so far.

YL President Alice Cooney said admission to practice in the Supreme Court was a highly regarded culmination of the many years of study required to qualify to practise law.

“Every admission ceremony is overseen by Chief Justice Anne Ferguson with two other judges on the bench.  Her Honour always delivers an inspiring address to a crowded Banco Court to focus new lawyers on the responsibilities and opportunities of their careers in law.

“As this was not possible this year, we are honoured that Chief Justice Ferguson will deliver a virtual keynote address to be played at our admissions celebration,” Ms Cooney said.

Former High Court Justice Michael Kirby AC CMG has also recorded a special message for new lawyers about how the profession has changed over his lifetime in the law.

Others to have recorded messages include County Court Chief Judge Peter Kidd, Chief Magistrate Lisa Hannan, Victorian Legal Services Board CEO and Commissioner Fiona McLeay, judges, magistrates, DPP Kerri Judd QC, Victoria Legal Aid lawyers, lawyers from large law firms, barristers and friends and families of newly admitted lawyers.

LIV President Sam Pandya said this year had been a difficult one for the community as well as the legal profession, as the practice of law adapted to keeping the justice system operating during a pandemic.

“We are proud to recognise the resilience and spirit of our new young lawyers who have entered their life in the law in a year none of us will ever forget,” he said.

Bookings for the virtual admission celebration are available on the LIV website . The recorded ceremony will also be available on the website after the event. Chief Justice Ferguson’s address will also be available on the Supreme Court website.