The Diocesan Registry provides legal advice and support to the Diocese of Norwich, and specifically to the Diocesan Board of Finance. The Registrar is also the Legal Secretary to the Bishop of Norwich, and in this capacity provides advice to the Bishop on legal matters.
The Registry is funded under the Ecclesiastical Fees Measure 1986 and the current Legal Officers (Annual Fees) Order. The Fees Order is renewed each year. The Order sets out the scope of the work to be provided by the Diocesan Registrar, and the relevant provisions are set outhere for guidance.
The Diocesan Registrar will be glad to offer preliminary guidance on matters not within the scope of the Fee Order retainer, but would not be able to act on behalf of any individual or body where this would involve a conflict with the Registrar’s professional retainer with the Diocese or the Bishop.
Where the Registrar is able to offer advice or assistance in a professional capacity as a Solicitor on matters outside the scope of the retainer, a separate fee is likely to be payable, and this would be discussed at the outset of any matter.
For advice on ecclesiastical or other matters where the Registrar is unable to help, the following may be able to provide expert advice and assistance:
