Frequently Asked Questions

Direct Access (also called Public Access) allows members of the public to instruct a Barrister directly, without going through a Solicitor first. The scheme has been available since 2004 and is regulated by the Bar Standards Board.

In many cases, yes. Typical savings are 30 to 50 percent because you are paying for one professional instead of two. But the primary advantage is not just cost. It is directness: you work with the specialist handling your case, with no intermediary.

They are the same thing. Direct Access and public access both refer to the scheme that allows members of the public to instruct a Barrister without going through a Solicitor. The Bar Standards Board uses public access in its formal rules, but Direct Access is the more commonly used term.

In some circumstances, yes. Barristers can accept Direct Access instructions for certain criminal matters, but there are restrictions, particularly for cases involving vulnerable defendants or very serious charges. Your Barrister will assess suitability as part of the initial review.

The simplest way is to use our free assessment tool. Describe your situation in a few sentences and we will tell you whether Direct Access is likely to be suitable, or whether you would be better served by a Solicitor. It takes about two minutes and there is no obligation.

You describe your legal matter in your own words. Our system organises your information and matches you with Barristers who specialise in cases like yours. Each Barrister reviews your case and provides a fixed fee quote. You compare and choose.

No. HireABarrister.com is a technology platform that connects clients with independent Barristers. We do not provide legal advice. We facilitate introductions, handle payments securely, and provide tools for case management.

Yes. Every Barrister on our platform is regulated by the Bar Standards Board and has completed the required training for Direct Access work. We verify credentials before any Barrister can accept instructions through the platform.

Fees vary by case complexity and Barrister experience. Every Barrister provides a fixed fee quote before you commit. Indicative ranges start from £750 for written advice and from £1,500 for a one day court hearing.

No. The quote your Barrister provides covers the agreed scope of work. If additional work is needed, your Barrister will provide a separate quote for your approval before proceeding.

Payments are processed securely through our platform and held until work is completed. This protects both you and the Barrister.

Most clients receive their first Barrister match within 24 hours of completing the assessment.

Yes. You can browse Barrister profiles, compare experience and reviews, and choose who you want to work with. You are never obligated to accept a match.

Your Barrister will tell you honestly. If procedural steps arise that require a Solicitor, your Barrister can advise you on next steps. We can also help you find a Solicitor to handle those specific elements.