Direct Access

Traditionally a Barrister would be instructed through a Solicitor. The Solicitor would choose the Barrister based on their experience, suitability for the case, ongoing relationship etc. Some Barristers are now Direct Access Qualified they can deal with the lay client directly, which alleviates the need for the Solicitor.

This is due to Public access rules which were introduced in July 2004, this has changed the way that members of the public can access the services of Barristers. This legislation makes it possible for anyone to instruct a Direct Access Barrister directly, they therefore have care and conduct of the whole case from start to finish.

Direct Access is only available in certain types of cases and it cannot be used for cases funded by a Legal Aid Order. Direct Access Barristers have to undertake the work of the Solicitor and the Advocate, on acceptance of instructions the Barrister will draft a detailed contract for lay client setting out different stages of case, fees, and the complaints procedure. For some clients this is a more cost effective way to instruct a Barrister.

In order to conduct this work Counsel must be Direct Access Qualified. Direct Access Barristers are governed and regulated by the Bar Standards Board.

The Bar Standards Board which regulates Barristers and their work, have issued guidance on Direct Access work which clients may find helpful. This link can be found here https://www.barstandardsboard.org.uk/uploads/assets/20f0db2a-a40c-4af9-95b1b9557ad748e9/Public-Access-Guidance-for-Lay-Clients.pdf


Chambers Barristers that conduct Direct Access work are as follows:
Christiaan Moll

Jonathan Gold

Emily Baxter

Lucy McGarr

Please see the Fees section as a guideline for costs.

Please do contact us in Chambers for any assistance and guidance needed.