Family law proceedings can be complex and stressful, however, by instructing a legal expert, the process should be more straightforward.
Direct-access barristers can really help people understand the process, offer their advice and advocacy expertise, and save clients money on legal fees.
Direct Access Scheme
The direct access scheme or public access scheme, open since 2004, allows members of the public to instruct a barrister directly, without the need of a solicitor.
Traditionally, clients instructed a solicitor, who in turn instructed a barrister on their behalf, meaning they paid for two lawyers.
Direct Access Benefits
- Cost-effectiveness—Because barristers have fewer overheads than solicitors, they can offer their services to clients for affordable fees.
Barristers usually work from a set of Chambers, and they share the costs of admin with each other, reducing their costs.
They are mostly able to offer clients fixed fees for their work, which have been agreed upon in advance. - Control and expertise—Many clients start legal proceedings themselves to save costs, and you are known as a litigant in person.
If you instruct a direct-access barrister and you are in court proceedings or litigation, you would remain a litigant in person while obtaining a barrister’s advice and advocacy services.
You would be able to take control over the management of your case and instruct a barrister as and when you need their expertise, advice and representation.
How To Instruct A Barrister
Most firms ask that clients complete a form on their website in the first instance, and we offer this service as well.
However, we find it more useful to clients if they contact Barristers First by phone or ask that we contact them.
Talking often helps us understand your requirements and your desired outcome.
We will be able to ascertain whether you need just advice, documents drafted by a barrister for you or representation in court.
We will then contact suitable barristers and send you their fees for you to consider.
Should you wish to instruct someone we have recommended, please get in touch, and we will arrange this as soon as possible.
