A Direct Access Barrister, also known as a Public Access Barrister, enables members of the public to directly instruct a qualified barrister without the need for an intermediary such as a solicitor. This scheme provides individuals and companies with a more accessible and cost-effective way to seek legal advice and representation.
The Direct Access Scheme
The Direct Access Scheme allows clients to bypass the traditional route of engaging a solicitor and directly engage a barrister. Here’s what you need to know:
- Instructing an Authorised Barrister: Under this scheme, you can instruct an authorised barrister directly. These barristers are qualified and regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB).
- Scope of Services: A direct access barrister can provide a range of legal services, including:
- Expert legal advice on case merits and potential outcomes.
- Assistance with drafting correspondence.
- Drafting statements from litigants and witnesses.
- Preparing formal court documents.
- Advising on suitable experts and drafting instructions to expert witnesses.
- Guidance on the next steps in legal proceedings.
- Assistance in resolving your case.
- Representation in court.
- Limitations: Most direct access barristers do not conduct litigation. Therefore, the day-to-day management of your case remains your responsibility.
Eligibility and Legal Aid
Here are some important points regarding eligibility and legal aid:
- Legal Aid Exclusion: Direct access barristers cannot undertake publicly funded (legal aid) work. If you believe you qualify for legal aid, you can check your eligibility using the Legal Aid Eligibility Calculator.
- Privately Funded Basis: If you are eligible for legal aid but prefer direct access, you can still instruct a barrister on a privately funded basis.
Benefits of a Direct Access Barrister
Why choose a direct access barrister?
- Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for a solicitor, you can save on legal fees.
- Control and Efficiency: You have direct control over your case, allowing for efficient communication and decision-making.
- Specialist Advice: Direct access barristers often specialize in specific areas of law, providing tailored expertise.
Using the Direct Access Portal
The Direct Access Portal (DAP), launched in March 2022, offers an improved process for finding suitable direct access barristers. Run by the Bar Council, the DAP ensures that all listed barristers meet the necessary qualifications and standards.
- Search and Contact: Use the DAP to search for and contact specialist barristers directly.
- Complaints: The DAP does not handle complaints against barristers. If you have a complaint, contact the barrister directly and request their complaints procedure or contact the Bar Standards Board.
In summary, direct access barristers empower individuals and businesses to access legal services efficiently, while maintaining control over their cases.
Whether you need advice, representation, or assistance, a direct access barrister offers a transparent and accessible path to justice.
Check out our articles on Barristers, Four Inns of Court, Bar Standards Board, Bar Standards Board Justice ?, Solicitors, Rule of Law and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.
Read the reviews of Junior Sussex Barrister Gavin Howe
“He is awful, underhanded and should not be practising law!”
and Legal 500 Junior Barrister Eleanor Battie
“She is a one-woman legal A Team”
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