Licensed Access
The term 'Licensed Access' replaces the terms 'BarDIRECT' and
'Direct Professional Access'.
Organisations or
individuals that have an identifiable area of expertise or
experience can apply to the Bar Standards Board to be licensed to
instruct barristers directly. The license holder can instruct
any member of the Bar for advice, and in some circumstances
representation, on their own behalf or another's behalf in the
specialist area.
Handbook for Chambers
Information for chambers being instructed on a Licensed Access basis can be found below:
Licensed Access Guidance - Handbook for Chambers
Handbook for Clients
Assistance for lay clients on how to instruct a barrister is available below:
Licensed Access Guidance - Handbook for Clients
Licensed Access Terms of Work
The Licensed Access Terms of Work is available:
Licensed Access Terms of Work
Applying for a License
To apply for a licence, amend an existing licence, or to receive further details of the scheme, please visit the Bar Standards Board's website, or contact the Qualification Regulations section of the Bar Standards Board at qualifications@barstandardsboard.org.uk.
Documents for Barristers
Any barrister may accept a Licensed Access instruction. The Cab-rank rule does not apply but barristers must abide by the Licensed Access Rules.
The Licensed Access Terms of work form the contract by which you agree to instructions with a Licensed Access client.
If you or your clerk have any questions about acceptance of a Licensed Access instruction please contact Ethical Enquiries Service : 020 7611 1307.