WorldAugust 17, 2026

devilled

DEV-uhld

Definition

To have served as a junior barrister performing preparatory research and drafting work under the supervision of a senior advocate or counsel.

Etymology

Derived from the legal term 'devil,' which originated in 18th-century English law for a junior who performs the tedious tasks for a senior lawyer. The term likely alludes to the idea of a 'devil' working behind the scenes or as a proxy for the master.

In the news

The author notes that Lord Hope served as his 'devil,' highlighting the lineage and traditional mentorship structure within the Scottish legal profession.

We won’t see the likes of Lord Mackay, a true great of Scots law, again

Read the full article ↗

The Scotsman

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