The right to appoint a church living is known as an advowson. The Duchy's advowsons date from the time when the Duchy owned manors and lands in every county. Many manors were sold by monarchs to raise money - for example, by Charles I during the Civil War - but the advowsons were retained. They are mainly posts for parish priests.

The livings are located in the northern, middle and eastern parts of the country, although, curiously, none actually fall within the County Palatine of Lancaster.

The preliminary administration of new appointments is dealt with by the Chaplain of the Queen's Chapel of the Savoy. Candidates are interviewed, and recommendations by the relevant Bishop are taken into account. Guidance is also taken from the local PCC to ensure that the nature and wishes of the parish are established.  A recommendation is made to the Chancellor and, following this approval, the new incumbent is appointed and a ceremonial presentation made.

The current incumbents of the Duchy livings are: