Direct Access Scheme
What is the Direct Access Scheme?
Often, members of the public who need a lawyer will instruct a solicitor. When the case requires specialist work or court representation, the solicitor will instruct a barrister for that work.
The Direct Access Scheme (also known as Public Access) allows members of the public to instruct a barrister directly without instructing a solicitor first.
Why should I go direct?
When you instruct a barrister directly, you’re likely to save on your overall legal costs. This is because you only need to pay for a barrister instead of both a barrister and a solicitor. Barristers also have significantly lower overheads than solicitors, so fees are generally lower.
What work can you do?
There is certain work a barrister can do and other work a barrister cannot do.
A barrister can:
- Represent you at court
- Give you legal advice
- Draft legal documents for you
- Send letters on your behalf
- Prepare your written evidence, including witness statements
- Negotiate with the other side
A barrister cannot conduct litigation. This would include issuing proceedings or filing applications on your behalf, or taking formal steps in court proceedings.
In practical terms, this might mean that a barrister can prepare your witness statement or application for you and advise you on what to do. You will send the witness statement or application to the court. The barrister will then represent you at court.
Need more information?
For more information from the Bar Standards Board, please click here.