The association representing the state's 2400 barristers has called on the Berejiklian government to provide a financial assistance package, including rent relief, as members face a sharp decline in work during the coronavirus pandemic.

Bar Association president Tim Game, SC, wrote to NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman on Friday and said barristers were "seeking to take all steps available to them to continue practising", including appearing in some courts where "limited amenities and reduced cleaning" left them at potential risk.

The NSW Bar Association says its members are facing financial distress as work declines during the coronavirus pandemic. Credit:Peter Rae

But barristers were facing a drop in work as courts postponed hearings in a number of matters in response to the pandemic, and Mr Game said "many of our members are confronting present or imminent financial difficulties".

He urged the NSW government to extend business stimulus packages and concessions for sole traders to barristers, who are also sole traders, and to provide relief from paying rent and protection from eviction.