FAQ 3

Q3. I have a dispute with a builder over work that he has carried out on my home. Is it appropriate for me to write to him on Chambers’ notepaper setting out what I believe to be my legal rights?

A3. Members of the Bar should not attempt to gain an advantage or put any pressure on other people by virtue of their position as barristers. It would not be appropriate for barristers to use their status as an implied threat to those with whom they are in dispute. Using Chambers’ notepaper in correspondence about a personal dispute or when conducting personal business could well constitute an implied threat and leave the barrister open to a justified complaint of professional misconduct.

Members of the Bar, when conducting such correspondence should use an e-mail address that does not identify Chambers. A member of the Bar who does so, may be deemed to be using their status to put pressure on other people by virtue of their position as a barrister and could leave themselves open to a complaint of professional misconduct.