Clerking and Administration
We are committed to providing a high quality of service to our clients by our members and our clerking team. We aim to be efficient, friendly and effective. The members of our clerking team are knowledgeable, courteous and understand the needs of clients and their professional advisors. They will help identify the most appropriate counsel for each client. Because members of Terra Firma Chambers frequently appear on different sides of the same dispute they also understand the need for confidentiality and will ensure that there is a proper degree of separation which will avoid any conflict of interest.
In order to check the availability of counsel, to discuss fees or any other matter telephone us on 0131 260 5830. In case of emergency, outside office hours, please call our Practice Manager on 07736 313725.
Emma Caskie-Potter
Our Practice Manager is Emma Caskie-Potter. She has been with Terra Firma from its inception in 2008, having previously served as a Deputy Clerk in the Murray Stable from 2002.
Emma has accumulated considerable knowledge of civil court practice over the years and built a strong reputation for efficiency, reliability and approachability. She has extensive experience of responding to enquiries regarding Counsel and understands the critical importance of identifying the appropriate Advocate(s) to meet the agent’s and client’s needs. She is very experienced in negotiating and agreeing fees and is always happy to discuss this with instructing agents.
Since working with the Faculty, Emma has completed a BA (Hons) in Social Sciences and a Masters in Religious Studies through the Open University, along with a post-graduate certificate in Business Studies. She is also a qualified paralegal.
Establishing strong professional relationships has been key to the success of the clerking team at Terra Firma. Emma is proud that the stable has maintained an excellent reputation in that respect since it was founded in 2008: "Emma Caskie-Potter, practice manager, and her team are excellent. They respond quickly and go above and beyond to assist." (Chambers & Partners UK, 2024)
Emma is “highly responsive and provides great assistance to instructing solicitors,” and is described as “really great to deal with. She is very helpful” (Chambers & Partners UK, 2024)
Andrew Veitch
Andy joined Terra Firma as a Deputy Clerk in 2008. Having graduated with a MA Honours Degree in Philosophy from the University of Glasgow he worked in various civil service posts before spending a couple of years travelling and working in Australia and Canada.
With over 12 years’ experience as a Deputy Clerk, Andy has developed expertise in all areas pertaining to the instruction of Counsel. He has extensive knowledge of both civil and criminal legal practice and has a paralegal qualification in civil court practice. He possesses excellent communication skills and is highly regarded by both Counsel and instructing agents for his efficient and helpful approach: “Andrew Veitch is an extremely helpful, accommodating and responsive clerk.” (Chambers & Partners UK, 2023)
Tracy Whitelaw
Tracy joined Terra Firma in 2009. Prior to that she worked for the Faculty’s Secretarial Services Department for 10 years during which time she earned a paralegal qualification in criminal law. She is an experienced Deputy Clerk who plays an integral role in organising Terra Firma’s extensive programme of seminars and events. Tracy’s personable nature makes her popular with counsel and agents alike, who value her friendly and responsive approach: “always responsive and focused on finding solutions.” (Chambers & Partners UK, 2024)
Tracy currently works 3 days a week on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Catriona Downie
With almost 20 years in the role, Catriona is one of the most experienced Deputy Clerks at the Scottish Bar. Having started with Faculty Services Ltd in 1991 as an Office Junior, she went on to work in the Faculty Office prior to becoming a Deputy Clerk. She has a specialist paralegal qualification in criminal law.
Catriona’s efficient and proactive approach has enabled her to become a valued and trusted member of the Terra Firma clerking team.
Catriona currently works in Terra Firma on Mondays and Tuesdays but regularly provides clerking cover for the stable out with her core days.
