A filter (51) for liquids comprises a filter vat (52) having an inlet orifice (60) for the liquid to be filtered, an outlet orifice (58) for the filtrate, and an evacuation orifice (66) for solid particles, together with filter elements comprising filter medium cloths disposed vertically around filter leaves (18) inside said vat between said inlet and outlet orifices. Said cloths (12) are in the shape of elongate pockets (16) threaded freely over said leaves (18), said leaves being provided with longitudinal drainage channels (32), said pockets having openings (19) in communication with said outlet orifice (58), and said filter leaves (18) being suspended beneath supports (20) which are fixed inside said vat (52), with said leaves being free to rock sideways from their supports.