Direct Access

Instruct Us

We welcome people instructing our barristers directly.

There are 2 ways of directly instructing our barristers, under:

(1) the Direct Access Scheme (sometimes known as the Public Access Scheme), which permits the instruction of a barrister directly by anyone (so for instance, any organisation, charity, authority, company, business, or private person) - there is requirement that solicitor must also be involved. Given its wide scope, this is by far the most frequently used Scheme; but there is also:

(2) the Licensed Access Scheme, which permits barristers to be instructed direclty by certain professionals (for instance, accountants)

Given that Direct Access Scheme (Public Access Scheme) is the dominant method of instructing a barrister directly, this page will focus on that. However, for more information about the Licensed Access Scheme, see here.

Direct Access Scheme/Public Access Scheme

Whether you are a individual, partnership, company, LLP, unincorporated association, local authority or government department (or any other entity), our Direct Access barristers can accept instructions from you to represent, advise and assist, whatever the area of law that concerns you.

Depending on your circumstances we can help you find the right barrister at a price to suit your budget and level of enquiry.

How do I instruct a barrister?

Instructing a barrister direct is simple and easy. Fill in the contact form and a member of our team will be in touch with you shortly.

What are the advantages of instructing a barrister direct? 

Cost and efficiency. We can advise, draft documents and represent you in court, tribunals or mediations. Barristers can also negotiate on your behalf and can attend without prejudice or similar meetings.

Is my case suitable for direct access? 

If we assess that your case is not suitable for public access we will inform you as quickly as possible and if required we can help you find a suitable solicitor.

What will my role be if the case is direct access?

You will be treated by the court as a Litigant in Person even when instructing a barrister direct, so you will carry out certain tasks which a solicitor would otherwise do. This would include preparing the papers that Counsel will need. You will also have to prepare instructions (which are a synopsis of your case), a chronology or timeline of events and exactly what you are asking the barrister to do. Thereafter you would be told exactly what you have to do and be given draft letters and advice by your barrister.

How much will it cost?

When undertaking work directly for lay clients we will quote fees in advance. Charges will vary from £100 to £600 (plus VAT) per hour.  Depending on the nature of the task, the fee will be either a fixed fee for specified work, or an hourly rate. We think that clients will find the overall cost of using our barristers’ direct very competitive, particularly as any unnecessary duplication of fees is eliminated.

Do I enter into a contract with the barrister?

Yes.  Once fees have been agreed you will receive a contract proposed by Counsel, which will be in the form of a Client Care Letter. You will be required to sign it and return a copy, to confirm your agreement to be contractually bound by its terms. It is important that you read this contract carefully, since it is the contract that will govern your relationship with the barrister.

When do I have to pay the barrister?

For every item of work or attendance at a hearing, the fees are paid in advance in line with the client care letter.

The Bar Standards Board publishes guidance for lay clients about how Direct Access Scheme/Public Access Scheme operates. To read that guidance, click here.