What do they do?
Benefits of Using a Direct Access Barrister
- Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for a solicitor, reducing legal fees.
- Expertise: Provides direct access to a specialist in your area of law.
- Efficiency: Speeds up the process as you work directly with the person handling your case.
Direct access is particularly suitable for clients confident in managing some administrative aspects of their case or for straightforward matters where the expertise of a barrister is required for specific tasks.Direct Access Barristers (also known as Public Access Barristers) provide legal services directly to members of the public without the need to go through a solicitor. This allows individuals to save on costs and manage their legal matters more directly while still receiving expert legal advice and representation.
Key Functions of Direct Access Barristers
Legal Advice:
- Offer advice on the strength of your case, potential outcomes, and legal strategy.
- Assist in understanding legal documents or procedures.
Drafting Documents:
- Prepare legal documents such as pleadings, contracts, or witness statements.
- Draft correspondence to other parties or the court.
Representation in Court:
- Represent you in court hearings, tribunals, or arbitrations.
- Advocate on your behalf during trials or negotiations.
Case Preparation:
- Assist with gathering evidence and preparing bundles for court.
- Guide you through procedural requirements (e.g., filing and serving documents).
Negotiations and Settlements:
- Engage in negotiations with the opposing party.
- Work to resolve disputes outside of court where possible.
Specialist Expertise:
- Provide expert knowledge in specific areas of law, such as family law, employment law, or criminal defense.
How It Works
Initial Contact:
- You contact the barrister directly, often through their chambers or an online platform.
- Discuss your case and agree on the services needed.
Agreement on Terms:
- The barrister provides a client care letter outlining the scope of work, fees, and terms of engagement.
- You agree on whether the barrister will handle specific tasks or provide full representation.
Pay-As-You-Go Fees:
- Unlike solicitors who may charge ongoing fees, direct access barristers usually work on a fixed-fee or hourly basis for specific tasks.
Limitations
- No Case Management: Barristers don’t handle ongoing case management or administrative work (e.g., managing deadlines, correspondence with third parties), which is traditionally done by solicitors.
- Complex Cases: In highly complex cases requiring detailed preparation or significant procedural work, a solicitor may still be necessary to complement the barrister's role.
- Eligibility: Not all barristers offer direct access services, and they may assess whether your case is suitable for direct access.
