www.stpauls-direct.com

DIRECT ACCESS

In some cases, the Barrister may well advise you that it is in your interests to engage the services of a solicitor. Chambers has an excellent relationship with a number of solicitors and if necessary would be able to put you in touch with a solicitor who specialises in the relevant area of law.

In addition to accepting instructions from Solicitors, members of chambers can now accept instructions in two other ways.

Licensed Access

Licensed Access is a well established means of using barristers’ services without first engaging a solicitor; it takes two forms.  The first category covers members of professional bodies, e.g., Accountants and taxation advisors, Architects surveyors and town planners automatically granted ‘Direct Access’.  The second category covers individuals and organisations with specialist knowledge who have applied for a License, e.g., Police forces, Fire Services and Professional Organisations.  Generally their instructions are given on behalf of the client, with the licensee acting as an intermediary.   

Public Access

Barristers are trained as specialist advisers and advocates. Barristers can be instructed directly by any person or any organisation and can represent these litigants in court without the need for a solicitor.  Although not an exhaustive list, under the Public Access scheme a barrister may give legal advice, draft documents and letters, offer advice on the formal steps which need to be taken, prepare witness statements and advise on the choice of experts required e.g., Surveyors.  The case will be managed at all times by the Direct Access Clerk  who will assist in the step by step action required in order to secure the appropriate barrister and provide the important information required.      

If you have further questions and would like to find out more about Licensed Access and Public Access you can contact Jayne Drake, the Direct Access Clerk at St Pauls Chambers. Alternatively for a more comprehensive guide to Licensed and Public Access and its current members, please visit the Bar Standards Board website. www.barstandardsboard.org.uk 

If you wish to be considered for Licensed Access or Public Access please complete the information form and send it to the ‘Direct Access’ Clerk at St Paul’s Chambers via email or post.

St Pauls Chambers aims to assist those considering using a barrister directly to decide if it is the most effective, user friendly and economic means of obtaining legal advice.