What Barristers Do
Barristers are specialist legal advisers and court room advocates. They are independent and objective and trained to advise clients on the strengths as well as the weaknesses of their case. They have specialist knowledge and experience in and out of court which can make a substantial difference to the outcome of a case.
In several cases early advice could save you the cost and worry of an unnecessary trial. A high proportion of civil cases are settled out of court and instructing a barrister greatly strengthens the client's hand at negotiation. Even at a trial whether in a civil or criminal court, a well argued case will impress a judge. Good cross - examination will impress the jury. A barrister's training in advocacy could make a big difference to the outcome of a case.
What is a QC?
A limited number of senior barristers are made Queen's Counsel as a mark of outstanding ability. They are normally instructed in very serious or complex cases. Most senior judges once practised as QCs.
How much will a barrister cost?
Legal aid may cover the services of a barrister and sometimes a QC, but if you are not eligible for legal aid, your solicitor will help you to negotiate a fee you can afford. In some types of case you may only have to pay the barrister's fee if you win. Because most barristers operate with low overheads, their rates are competitive. Whether you are legally aided or paying privately, the quality of service is assured.
A number of barristers will do work for no fee in cases which are especially deserving or of great public importance and legal aid is not available. The Bar Pro Bono Unit exists to co-ordinate their services.
How do I get in touch with a barrister?
The usual route to a barrister is through a solicitor and you should discuss with your solicitor whether it is important to have a barrister's advice. Solicitors have good working relationships with barristers and are likely to know or be able to find out the most suitable barrister to deal with your case. Assuming that that barrister is available and that there are no conflicts of interest, he or she is under a duty to take your case.
In addition, The Bar Council operates a scheme allowing licensed access to barristers. Licensed access incorporates the two schemes formerly known as Direct Professional Access and BarDirect. This scheme is particularly suitable for organisations with knowledge and expertise in a particular area of law. For further details of licensed access including Rules, Regulations, Guidance and Terms of Work and an application form and list of licensees see (Licensed Access) or click here.
Public Access
As from 6 July 2004, the rules governing access to the Bar were relaxed to allow a greater degree of public access to barristers. For further details about Public Access to barristers click here.
Meeting your barrister
In many cases, barristers are able to give advice on a case simply by looking at the papers. In more complex matters, however, and certainly in ones which will be going to court, it will usually be necessary to have a conference or consultation with the barrister. This can take place either in the barrister's chambers or in a solicitor's office.
Where do barristers practise?
Barristers are individual practitioners who work in groups of offices known as chambers which are situated in cities and towns throughout England and Wales. You can see the list of barristers at present in practice on the Bar Directory.
Complaints
Barristers generally offer a very high standard of service but, occasionally, clients do feel that they have a complaint. Your solicitor may, in the first instance, be able to resolve any complaints or problems but, if that fails, the Bar Standards Board operates a complaints system.
Pro Bono Work
For an illustration of Pro Bono work carried out by the Bar please click on the link below:
