Benefits of Instructing a Barrister directly
Many clients assume that a solicitor is the first port of call for legal services. In fact, you can now go directly to a barrister, which is known as direct access.
One of the benefits of direct access to barristers is that it is likely to cost significantly less – you are engaging one lawyer instead of two to get expert legal opinion.
How can a barrister help?
Barristers are specialist legal advisers and courtroom advocates. They are independent lawyers with specialist knowledge and experience in and out of court, which can make a substantial difference to the outcome of a dispute.
Advice from a barrister at a dispute’s early stage can help avoid unnecessary and costly litigation. However, if the dispute continues, a well-argued case and good cross-examination can make all the difference to the final outcome.
Benefits of direct access to a barrister with Barristers Direct:
Lower costs – Barristers tend to cost less than people expect and often less than solicitors. This is because barristers do not have the level of overheads that solicitors have, so they can charge less. When you pay a barrister, you are paying for their time and expertise – not the cost of running an expensive office.
Fixed fees – Barristers have been providing their services at fixed fees for years. Knowing the cost before the work is undertaken is a crucially important factor for you to bear in mind. Fixed fees enable you to plan your financial outlay in advance and avoid nasty surprises by receiving a bill you weren’t expecting.
Legal expertise – Barristers are experts in their chosen area of law. They advise on the strengths and weaknesses of a claim, draft legal documents, write letters on your behalf, negotiate settlements and skilfully represent clients before courts and tribunals.
Speed of service – Barristers have specialist legal knowledge and skills, which means they can provide solutions to legal problems quickly and efficiently.
When you need to Hire a Solicitor
If your dispute requires you to issue legal proceedings, it will be necessary for you to instruct a solicitor also. If you do not already have a solicitor that you wish to instruct, your barrister can give you advice about instructing a solicitor.
Your barrister can ensure that you instruct a solicitor with the necessary experience, knowledge and expertise to meet your needs. Your barrister will have first-hand knowledge of a vast array of solicitors and can help you find one suitable for your case.