A direct access barrister is an independent lawyer who specialises in one or more areas of law and who can advise their clients, draft legal documents and represent clients in courts and tribunals.
In most cases, members of the public and businesses would instruct a solicitor for legal advice and representation.
However, some years ago, the law was changed to allow the public and businesses to instruct a direct-access barrister instead of a solicitor.
This gave everyone the chance to either instruct a solicitor or a barrister.
Often, when someone instructs a solicitor, they will also need the services of a barrister and, therefore, may have to pay for the services of two lawyers, which can be costly.
By using a direct access barrister, clients can save on their legal fees as they will only be paying for one lawyer, and barristers’ fees are fixed and agreed in advance of any work being done.
What Can A Direct Access Barrister Do For Me?
Depending on their needs, clients can instruct a barrister to do various things for them, including:
- Drafting documents – i.e., an application to the court to start proceedings for clients, or they can draft a defence or counterclaim.
- Providing legal advice – ie someone needing advice on the merits of a claim or defending one.
- Representation – ie, a client has received notice they are being taken to court on a civil matter and need someone to represent them in court.
Are Direct Access Barristers Costs Lower Than Solicitors?
Because barristers work independently, unlike solicitors who generally work for a law firm, they have lower overheads and, therefore, can charge less.
They do not have the day-to-day cost of an office and other expenses associated with it.
Direct access barristers also offer their legal expertise for fixed fees, instead of the hourly rate model clients are used to when seeing a solicitor.
If someone instructs a direct access barrister, the fee will be agreed with them in advance, before any work is done, so they won’t receive any unexpected bills.
Barristers usually specialise in a small number of areas of law.
If a client wants to use a direct access barrister, they will be safe in the knowledge that the barrister will have expertise in the area of law required.
If you would like to discuss your requirements with a view to booking a direct access barrister please do not hesitate to get in touch with us and we will be happy to assist.
