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The Difference between Barristers and Solicitors
Barristers give expert advice, draft documents, act as advocates (i.e. represent you at hearings), and conduct settlement negotiations.
Most barristers are specialists in one or more areas of law. Barristers regularly appear in court to run cases so they have a detailed knowledge of the courts system and have extensive experience in litigation.
Solicitors generally take responsibility for handling a client’s affairs, clients’ money and for the general management of a client’s legal case.
In “contentious” matters, it will be necessary to also engage a solicitor. Contentious matters are matters where there are legal proceedings in being before any court or other tribunal.
If your case requires that you issue legal proceedings, you will need to instruct a solicitor and your barrister can help you choose a solicitor with the necessary expertise to work on your case.
Calling a Barrister Directly
Previously, if you needed a barrister you would have to engage a solicitor first, thereby paying for two lawyers rather than just one. The Legal Services Regulation Act now permits you to go directly to a barrister for certain matters. Further savings can be made by directly instructing a barrister as the overheads incurred by independent sole practitioner barristers are generally much less than those of a solicitor’s firm.
If your dispute requires you to issue legal proceedings, it will be necessary for you to instruct a solicitor. 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.
Based on your legal query, we will arrange a consultation with a barrister who specialises in that area of law, getting you expert advice saving you both time and money.
For a fixed fee of €325 plus VAT, one of our barristers will meet with you and provide you with expert advice and how best to proceed. Your barrister will not charge any further fee in respect of this consultation.
Contact us today by phone or by email for specialised legal advice.