- Direct Access — no solicitor required
Direct Access Barrister
Family, Employment & Criminal Defence
Clear advice. Fixed fee options. Direct access to a barrister without necessarily instructing a solicitor first.
Practice Areas
How I Can Help
Three focused practice areas where Sharmeen can help — each on a Direct Access basis.
Family Law
Clear advice and representation in divorce, child arrangements and financial remedy matters.
Employment Law
Advice and Employment Tribunal representation for unfair dismissal, redundancy and discrimination.
Criminal Defence
Direct Access representation for criminal allegations and motoring offences.
Why Choose Chambers of SQ
Barrister
Called to the Bar in July 2019 (Lincoln’s Inn).
Direct & Public Access
Instruct Counsel directly, without necessarily needing a solicitor first.
Regulated by the Bar Standards Board
Authorised for Public Access work, with full rights of audience.
England & Wales
Based in Eastleigh, Hampshire, practising across England and Wales.
How Direct Access Works
Instructing a barrister directly can be straightforward.
Tell Me About Your Case
Complete the enquiry form and provide brief details.
Receive a Quote
Counsel considers the information and confirms whether she can assist and the proposed fee.
Instruct Counsel
Once the scope and fee are agreed, Client Care documentation is completed and work can begin.
Clear & Transparent Fees
Know the likely cost before you instruct Counsel.
From £250
Initial 30-minute advice
From £850
Family first hearing
From £750
Criminal sentencing hearing
- Urgent enquiries are prioritised
Have an Upcoming Court or Tribunal Hearing?
Send the hearing date, court or tribunal and relevant documents for an urgent quotation.
What Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about instructing a Direct Access barrister.
Can you hire a barrister without a solicitor?
Yes. Through the Direct Access (Public Access) scheme, you can instruct a barrister directly without going through a solicitor first. This allows you to speak directly with your barrister about your case while receiving professional legal advice and representation.
Do I have to be in Eastleigh or Hampshire to instruct you?
No. While Chambers of SQ is based in Eastleigh, Hampshire, clients across England and Wales can instruct Sharmeen through remote consultations and court representation where appropriate.
How do I get started?
Simply contact Chambers by email or telephone with brief details of your matter. Sharmeen will consider your enquiry and confirm whether she can assist and the proposed fee.
What types of cases do you handle?
Legal services are focused on three areas: Family Law, Employment Law, and Criminal Defence (including motoring offences).
What if my case becomes more complex?
If your case needs additional support – for example instructing experts or solicitors for certain tasks – Sharmeen will always explain your options and help you decide the best next steps.
Do you offer flexible appointments?
Yes. Consultations are available during evenings and weekends, and meetings can take place by phone, WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, or in person.
How much will it cost?
Costs depend on the nature and complexity of your case. Please contact Chambers to obtain a quotation – indicative fixed fees for common services are set out on the Fees page.
Need Advice on Your Case?
Speak directly with a barrister about your matter.