Mountford Chambers delivers a nationwide and international service to clients, who are assured quality advice, advocacy and representation at all levels.
Mountford Chambers has a number of barristers who are specifically qualified to accept instructions on a ‘Direct Access’ (also known as ‘Public Access’) basis, permitting them to be instructed directly by a client without the need for a solicitor.
Whether you are a member of the public or a commercial organisation, rules introduced in 2004 mean that there are potential savings to made to the legal costs of a case when using a direct access barrister. With no solicitor involved in the case, individuals may be required to take on some of the tasks that a solicitor would otherwise have done. This could include tasks such as collating documents, filling forms at court, and liaising with experts on the case.
Many criminal, regulatory and public law cases are suitable for direct access. The work may involve advice from a barrister about a case, representation at court, or support drafting statements and other legal documents.
When instructing a barrister directly you will still receive the same standard of service and legal advice, plus our expert practitioners will support you throughout the lifespan of the case ensuring a highly personalised approach.
Not all cases are suitable for direct access, therefore please speak to one of our experienced clerks at the earliest opportunity to assess whether it’s appropriate for your case. They will then advise you what you need to do next.
Members of the public interested in instructing a barrister through the Direct Access scheme can read further guidance issued by the Bar Standards Board.
If you choose to instruct a barrister directly, under the Public Access scheme, you will want to understand how you will be charged and what the likely overall cost will be.
We recommend that you read the ‘Fees‘ section of our website that explains more about how Private Fees are calculated. If you would like to discuss this in more detail, one of our friendly clerking team will be happy to speak to you.
You can contact our clerking team at clerks@mountfordchambers.com or call 020 7936 6300.