What is a Direct Access Barrister? (And How Much Do They Cost?)
A direct access barrister can be instructed without a solicitor for most privately funded matters. This guide explains how it works, what they can and cannot do, and what to expect to pay.
What is a Direct Access Barrister? (And How Much Do They Cost?)
A direct access barrister is a specialist legal professional you can instruct without going through a solicitor first. You contact them, agree the work, pay the fee, and they get on with it. No intermediary, no second bill.
Before 2004, barristers could only be instructed through a solicitor. The Bar Standards Board introduced the Public Access scheme to open up specialist legal expertise to privately funded clients. It was expanded significantly in 2010 to cover all areas of law in which barristers practise, except legally aided matters.
What Can a Direct Access Barrister Do for You?
- Specialist legal advice on your situation and prospects
- Drafting: pleadings, skeleton arguments, witness statements, legal opinions, letters
- Representation at hearings, trials, and tribunals
- Negotiation with the other side
- Written opinions on specific questions of law
What Can They Not Do?
Most barristers, unless they hold a specific litigation authorisation from the Bar Standards Board, cannot formally conduct litigation. That means they cannot file documents at court on your behalf, serve papers on the other party, act as the registered address for court correspondence, or hold client funds.
How Much Does It Cost?
There is no fixed scale. Fees are agreed individually and set out in the client care letter before any work begins. As a rough guide:
- Written advice: £500 to £2,500 depending on complexity and seniority
- Document drafting (pleadings, skeleton arguments): £750 to £3,000
- Half-day tribunal or hearing: £1,000 to £4,000
- Full-day trial: £1,500 to £6,000 or more
These are indicative only. The significant point is that you are paying for one lawyer, not two.
This article provides general legal information only. It is not formal legal advice and does not create a solicitor-client or barrister-client relationship. If you need advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal professional.
Need Professional Legal Help?
This guide is for general information only. For advice tailored to your situation, instruct a Direct Access barrister.