- Direct Access — also known as Public Access
Direct Access — How It Works
Instruct a barrister directly, without first instructing a solicitor.
How Direct Access Works
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.
The Full Process
- Client submits an enquiry.
- Counsel considers whether the matter is suitable for Public Access.
- Client provides the necessary papers.
- Scope of work and the fixed or estimated fee are agreed.
- Client receives and accepts the Client Care Letter or Terms.
- Counsel undertakes the agreed advice, drafting or representation.
Except where otherwise specifically agreed, you will generally remain responsible for conducting the litigation yourself — for example, filing court documents, formally serving documents on other parties, and general case administration.
Obtaining a Quotation
Please contact Chambers to obtain a quotation for your matter. Fees will depend upon the nature and complexity of the work required. Chambers aims to provide a quotation within a reasonable time — normally within 14 days — though this may take longer where a matter is complex or where Counsel’s own workload requires it, in which case you will be kept informed.
Timescales
Timescales vary depending on the nature of the matter and cannot always be predicted precisely. Factors that may affect how long your matter takes include:
- complexity of the case
- volume of documentation
- urgency
- availability of Counsel
- court or tribunal listing times
- compliance by other parties
- whether additional evidence or expert evidence is required
- changes in the scope of the instruction
Further Guidance
For further information about instructing a barrister directly, please see the Bar Standards Board’s Public Access Guidance for Lay Clients.