What is direct access?

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Direct access, also known as public access, is a popular scheme that allows members of the public, organisations and businesses to instruct barristers directly rather than through a solicitor. You can find more about it on the Bar Standard Boards' website. I have been a champion of direct access since it started in 2004. Not every case is suitable, nor is every client able to work directly with a barrister. It allows people to be professionally represented or obtain specialist advice they might not otherwise be able to afford, and often very quickly. Sometimes, solicitors ask me to act for clients where they are confident I can work directly to offer the most cost-effective service. Some highlights of direct access are:

Benefits:

• Savings on legal fees, even where a solicitor might have some involvement
• Direct relationship with counsel, ensuring clear and quick communication
• Early involvement with counsel who might ultimately present the case, providing more thorough knowledge of a case's history and evidence
• Practical and pragmatic advice from someone experienced in trials

Barrister's role: 

• Providing specialist legal advice
• Familiarity with court and tribunal procedure
• Assisting with drafting correspondence 
• Helping draft statements from litigants and witnesses 
• Drafting formal court documents 
• Advising on suitable experts  
• Assisting in trying to resolve the case, including mediation
• Representation in court and settlement meetings
• Drafting settlement agreements