Public Access
What is Public Access?
Historically, a person wishing to use the service of a barrister would have to instruct a solicitor who would then refer you to a barrister for specialist advice and to represent you in court. The rules have now changed which means you can now go directly to a barrister for advice and/or representation without having to involve anyone else. This is called Public Access and can make legal proceedings much more affordable.
Is my case suitable for Public Access?
We have members of chambers who accept Public Access work in:
- Crime
- Personal Injury
- Regulatory
- Family
Please note, however, not all barristers do Public Access work, and some cases are not suitable for Public Access. If you wish to instruct a barrister on a Public Access basis, please contact our clerking team who will be able to advise if your case is suitable. If we think at any time you would be better represented by a solicitor then we will tell you – and may be able to put you in touch with an appropriate professional. In these circumstances, your barrister could continue to act for you through your solicitor.
Can I instruct a Public Access barrister?
Any individual or business can instruct a suitable barrister directly.
How much will it cost me?
Our charges vary, depending on the type of case and experience of the barrister you instruct. Charges vary from around £125 to £425 (+VAT) per hour and for most cases we can provide a fixed fee quote which may reduce the hourly rate and offer better value. If we think we can help, we sometimes offer an initial consultation free of charge.
Please see below for more information on the areas we can offer.
Summary Only Motoring Offences
Personal Injury
Immigration Appeals
I want to instruct a barrister to act for me on a Public Access basis, what should I do?
Step 1
Please contact our clerking team on 0113 2456633 or [email protected]. They will take some initial details from you including the nature of your problem. They will let you know if your case is (or might be) suitable for Public Access and, if so, arrange an initial consultation with a barrister.
Step 2
Send over any paperwork you have ahead of your meeting with the barrister. The clerks may be in touch to ask you for additional things once the barrister has looked over the papers.
Step 3
Meeting with the barrister. This can take place remotely if preferred. The barrister will explain the process, fees and scope of the work.
Step 4
You decide, what work, if any, you would like them to undertake.
If you require any of the information relating to Public Access work in an alternative format, please contact the clerks.