Clerks and support staff

Our experienced criminal defence clerks accept instructions for our advocates. They have an in-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system.

Meet the clerks

We can accept instructions from any firm of solicitors in England and Wales for any client qualifying for criminal legal aid.

Robin Driscoll, Senior Clerk, Advocacy Team

Robin leads the clerking team for the Public Defender Service (PDS) Advocacy Team and is often the first point of contact for professional clients seeking advocacy assistance.

With responsibility for the deployment and management of advocates across England and Wales, Robin works closely with clients to identify the most suitable advocate for every case. Whether the requirement is for a routine hearing, a complex Crown Court trial or a matter requiring specialist expertise, he is committed to ensuring clients receive a responsive, efficient, and professional service. Robin understands the importance of continuity of representation, prompt communication, and practical solutions, particularly where cases are urgent or present unique challenges.

Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. He began his career at 2 Paper Buildings (2PB) in the Inner Temple, progressing from Junior Clerk to First Junior Clerk and ultimately Senior Clerk. During this time, he worked alongside some of the country’s leading criminal barristers and played a part in the careers of many who went on to become Queen’s Counsel now King’s Counsel, Recorders, Circuit Judges and High Court Judges.

Robin joined the PDS in 2014 and has been instrumental in developing and leading its clerking function. He is passionate about building strong and lasting professional relationships and takes pride in delivering a client-focused service. Whatever the challenge, Robin will always seek to find a practical solution and ensure clients have access to the advocacy support they need.

Approachable, knowledgeable, and highly experienced, Robin is always happy to discuss advocacy requirements and explore how the PDS can assist.

Telephone: 0203 334 4253
Email: robin.driscoll@justice.gov.uk

Outside of work, Robin enjoys Chelsea FC, Formula One, Fishing and is a keen advocate of no-dig gardening.

Charlotte Forey, Junior Clerk, Advocacy Team

Charlotte started out as a junior clerk in a London Chambers in 2016. Her career did start as a criminal clerk, but she then took opportunity to develop her career and progressed into a civil clerking role covering immigration, family and much more. Charlotte joined the Public Defender Service in 2020 as a Junior Clerk and brings 8 years of invaluable experience to the role.

Charlotte can assist in providing Counsel and can also provide the answers to many enquiries which you may have. Charlotte has worked hard to develop and maintain trustworthy and reliable relationships with new and existing clients. Charlotte also takes on responsibility for billing and fees enquiries.

Charlotte enjoys her clerking career and strives to provide the best service to all. However, in her spare time, she loves spending hours shopping, trying new restaurants and then working it off in the gym. She is also a mum to one so family time is a priority!

Emily Street, Billing Clerk

Emily began working with the Public Defender Service (PDS) in 2023. Before joining the PDS, Emily gained valuable experience as a caseworker under the Advocates’ Graduated Fee Scheme (AGFS), where she developed a solid understanding of legal processes and case management.

In addition, Emily has also worked as a healthcare assistant across a range of mental health and acute medical wards. This experience has equipped her with a compassionate, client-focused approach and the ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure environments.

Emily is the main point of contact for billing matters, and any billing queries.