Charles Elford

The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple

A modern institution with a long and distinguished history, Middle Temple is a place of many parts. First and foremost, Middle Temple is one of the four Inns of Court which have the exclusive right to Call students to the Bar. The education and training of advocates lie at the heart of the Inn, but we are also a professional society for our membership worldwide; and we maintain a heritage estate in central London housing chambers from which barristers practise. Several important activities support Middle Temple's core functions. In addition to teaching, training and the management of the Inn's property portfolio, these include the provision of around £1 million per year in support of our students and other junior members; the running of a modern Law library and an historic archive; the oversight (with Inner Temple) of the historic Temple Church; and the management of a commercial events business. All of these activities represent the 21st century Middle Temple, but training and education will always be at its core. Middle Temple's membership comprises students, barristers and senior members of the Bar and Judiciary. Members of the Inn's Governing Body (Parliament) are known as Masters of the Bench. The Chairman is the Treasurer, who is elected each year for a 12-month period of office. The Chief Executive, who is a full-time permanent member of the Inn's staff, is the Under Treasurer. A staff of 90 permanent employees assist the Under Treasurer with the day-to-day management and operation of the Inn, along with part-time staff who support our corporate events.