Direct Access Barristers are barristers in England and Wales who are authorised to accept instructions directly from members of the public, businesses, and organisations—without the need to instruct a solicitor first. This service operates under the Public Access Scheme, introduced by the Bar Standards Board to make legal advice and representation more accessible and cost-effective.
Key Information About Direct Access Barristers
No Solicitor Required
Traditionally, clients had to instruct a solicitor who would then brief a barrister. Under the Direct Access scheme, you can approach a qualified barrister directly, saving time and reducing legal costs.
What Direct Access Barristers Can Do
A Direct Access Barrister can:
Provide specialist legal advice
Draft legal documents and written submissions
Represent you in court
Appear in tribunals, hearings, and arbitrations
What They Typically Do Not Do
Most Direct Access Barristers do not:
Handle ongoing administrative tasks such as gathering evidence or managing case correspondence
Manage litigation logistics
Hold or manage client funds, including paying court fees on your behalf
(Some barristers hold additional authorisation allowing them to conduct litigation—this will depend on the individual barrister.)
Is Direct Access Right for Your Case?
Not every case is suitable for Direct Access. Matters involving complex litigation or extensive case management may still require a solicitor. A barrister will assess whether your case is appropriate before accepting instructions.
Regulation and Training
Direct Access Barristers must complete specialist training and be formally registered with the Bar Standards Board, ensuring they meet strict professional and regulatory standards.
When a Direct Access Barrister Is a Good Option
You may benefit from Direct Access if:
You have a clear legal issue and want expert advice or advocacy
You wish to reduce legal costs by avoiding unnecessary solicitor fees
You are comfortable managing some aspects of your case administration
Direct Access Barristers offer a flexible, efficient, and cost-effective way to access specialist legal expertise, giving you greater control over your case while maintaining the highest professional standards.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right legal support can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. At Direct Access Barrister, we focus on providing clear, efficient, and cost-effective legal services tailored to your needs.
Direct Access to Specialist Barristers
You deal directly with experienced barristers who specialise in their areas of law, ensuring you receive expert advice and strong advocacy from the outset—without unnecessary layers of communication.
Fixed and Transparent Fees
We offer clear, upfront pricing with fixed-fee options wherever possible. This means no hidden costs and no unexpected bills, allowing you to budget with confidence.
Cost-Effective Legal Support
By avoiding the need for a solicitor in suitable cases, you can significantly reduce legal costs while still benefiting from high-quality legal advice and courtroom representation.
Nationwide Coverage
We provide access to barristers across England and Wales, offering professional legal support wherever you are based.
Clear, Practical Advice
We pride ourselves on delivering straightforward, honest advice. You’ll be guided through the legal process in plain English, with realistic assessments of your options and prospects.
Flexible Support
Whether you need one-off legal advice, help drafting documents, or full representation at a hearing or trial, we offer flexible services tailored to your situation.
Regulated and Trusted
All our barristers are fully qualified, regulated by the Bar Standards Board, and authorised to accept Direct Access instructions, ensuring the highest professional standards.
