Members of the public are now able to instruct barristers directly, without the need to instruct a solicitor. Similarly, those who instructed counsel through other professionals (such as architects, planning consultants, surveyors, accountants and others are now eligible for Public Access. This offers clients a fuller range of options when considering legal services, including a potential cost saving and greater liaison with the trial advocate.
At this stage this does not apply to those who are in receipt of Public Funding (Legal Aid) who must still initially instruct counsel through a solicitor.
:: Public Access Barristers
A Public Access Barrister is a barrister who has been in practice for more than 3 years and has also been trained to receive instructions directly from members of the public and are able to provide specialist legal advice, draft documents, and provide representation before courts and tribunals.
There are currently 15 barristers at Trinity Chambers who are able to undertake Public Access work, ranging in call (their seniority) from 3 to 30 years.
:: Cost of Public Access
Only privately funded cases can be taken on by a barrister under Public Access Rules. Using barristers’ chambers directly can be an effective way to conduct some litigation. Our barristers offer a range of expertise and experience to members of the public. Direct Access can also be economically advantageous, avoiding the cost of instructing a second lawyer by way of a solicitor. Barrister’s fees are agreed on an individual basis, set by factors, including the seniority of the barrister (their call), the complexity of the case and the time required in preparation
