Licensed Access
The term “Licensed Access” replaces the terms “BarDIRECT” and “Direct Professional Access”.
Licensed access is a licensing system whereby organisations or individuals who are suitable to instruct barristers because they have expertise in particular areas of the law can apply to the Bar Council to be licensed to instruct barristers directly in those areas. The licence can cover advice or representation or both and permit licensees to instruct barristers either on their own affairs or on behalf of their clients.
To apply for a licence, to amend an existing licence, or to receive further details of the scheme, please visit the Bar Standards Board's website, or contact Joanne Dixon, Manager, Qualification Regulations: 020 7611 1444.
Members of the Bar or clerks seeking guidance on Licensed Access issues should contact the Ethical Enquiries line on 020 7611 1307, or by email.
Licensed Access Guidance
General Information about Licensed Access (including rules, regulations, terms of work and lists of licensess) is available on the Bar Standards Board's website.
Guidance for lay clients on how to instruct a barrister is available in Licensed Access Guidance - Handbook for Clients.
Information for chambers can be found in Licensed Access Guidance - Handbook for Chambers.
There is also guidance for members of the Bar in the Guidance section of this website.
The Licensed Access Terms of Work is available here.
